Tucked
away in the easternmost corner of the Mediterranean Sea lies Cyprus.
An island republic of spectacular beauty with sandy beaches enclosed
by rugged cliffs, cool cedar forests, scented orange groves and gentle
meadows blanketed in wildflowers.
A sophisticated
country, whose nine-thousand-year cultural legacy infuses East and West.
An historic island, the third largest in the Mediterranean, where modern
travelers retrace the footsteps of figures as diverse as St. Paul, Alexander
the Great and Leonardo da Vinci. And a romantic island, once Anthony’s
gift to Cleopatra and where, according to mythology, the goddess Aphrodite
first emerged from the sea.
In Cyprus, one can share
a meze — a table laden with up to thirty “little” culinary
delicacies — with friendly locals in a charming stone village. Witness
artisan crafts made according to ancient traditions. Wind surf, sail,
snorkel and even snow-ski in the most cosmopolitan resorts. Luxuriate
in five- and four-star hotels, or while away your time in quaint village
inns. There are truly worlds to discover in this eminently accessible
island, where the service is extraordinary and the people (often English-speaking!)
are as warm as the Mediterranean sun.
The whims of history
have endowed Cyprus with an incomparably rich heritage, making it a
world-renowned destination for anyone interested in art, history, and
culture. Stone Age ruins, Greek temples, Roman theaters, Venetian structures
and Byzantine churches cover the island. Golden icons, colorful frescoes
and archaic statuary are among the artifacts that will captivate you,
taking you back centuries.
Modern
cultural interests abound as well. The museums of Cyprus feature the
expressive works of late 20th century artists. While theatres present
contemporary drama and elegant concerts — often under the stars.
Gourmets appreciate another legacy of Cyprus’ many-layered history.
The Greek, Venetian, British, and Near East cultures have all lent their
hand in creating a cuisine unlike any other. Almost every port and mountain
village has a specialty: whether it be a variety of the renowned Cypriot
wine, a special goat cheese, or a uniquely prepared lamb dish, new sensations
await even the most urbane palate.
Inveterate
shoppers, too, have much to celebrate. Stroll through the glittering
jewelry stores, handicraft centers and local boutiques. Delicately woven
Cypriot lace, hand-turned pottery, and regional paintings and sculptures
are among the souvenirs and gifts travelers most often bring home.
For outdoor enthusiasts, there are the Troodos Mountains, a rugged
region that hikers, campers, and nature-watchers call paradise. In spring,
the range is a dazzling carpet of wildflowers (as is all of Cyprus,
home to myriad blossoming plants — over one hundred species found solely
on the island). In Spring, Summer and Fall, there are walking trails
and panoramic vistas for all to enjoy. And in winter, astonishingly,
skiers hit powder in the mountains of Cyprus.
When the thoughts
of some turn to bed, night owls begin to plan their evenings. Cyprus
is famed for hospitality that knows no hours; tavernas, night clubs,
bars, and discos that draw international crowds can be found in every
major town. For those who love a good party but don’t want to stay up
all night, there are wine festivals, Carnival revelry, village fairs
and many other island celebrations.
Families enjoy
the wide variety of activities the island holds for both adults and
children. Couples find themselves happily alone on empty beaches or
wandering through quiet villages. Singles and youthful travelers come
for fast-paced fun and conviviality. It’s easy to see why Cyprus has
become a magnet in itself as well as a natural stopping-off point on
trips to Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Greece.
Rich in
history yet replete with modern amenities, relaxing and effortless yet
full of surprises, Cyprus is irresistible to everyone. And has been
for 9,000 years.
Taken from
The official web site of the Cyprus Tourism Organization.
