Cyprus
Capital
Nicosia
Population
~1.2 million
Currency
Euro (€)
Quick Facts
- Languages
- Greek, Turkish
- Religion
- Greek Orthodox Christianity, Islam
- Climate
- Mediterranean; hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters
Culture & History
Known for: a divided capital, Aphrodite's birthplace, and its strategic Mediterranean location
Also famous for: beaches, ancient ruins, and halloumi cheese
Food: Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers)
Brief History
Divided between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities; British colony; gained independence in 1960; Turkish invasion in 1974 led to the de facto partition of the island