Showing posts with label CYPRUS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CYPRUS. Show all posts

Saturday, April 5, 2025

CYPRUS: Vineyards and Wine Making

Cyprus’ wine making tradition dates back over 5,000 years.

Vineyards contribute to the island’s landscape, culture and economy.

The Mediterranean climate with long sunny days, cool mountain breezes and fertile soil creates ideal conditions for growing grapes.

Vineyards are mostly concentrated in the central Troodos Mountains area where the altitude and terrain contribute to the unique flavor profiles of Cypriot wines.

CYPRUS: Mountains and Monasteries

Kykkos Monastery is one of the most famous and wealthiest monasteries in Cyprus.

It is located in the Troodos Mountains at an altitude of about 1,318 meters (4,300 ft for those that are metric challenged.)

Founded in the 11th century by the Byzantines, the monastery has stunning mosaics and frescoes showcasing traditional Byzantine artistry.

Over the centuries Kykkos Monastery has been a spiritual and cultural center

Today it still remains an active monastery and a major pilgrimage site.

Friday, April 4, 2025

CYPRUS: Nicosia - A City Divided by a Border

Nicosia is the capital city of Cyprus and is also the largest city on the island.

Because of the Turkish invasion in 1974, Nicosia has the dubious distinction of being the last divided capital city in Europe. 

The southern part of the city is controlled by the Republic of Cyprus and the northern part of the city is controlled by the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

The Green Line, a demilitarized zone (DMZ), cuts across the heart of the city separating neighborhoods, families and communities.

It is patrolled by the United Nations.

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

CYPRUS: Mountain Villages


They say the mountain villages of Cyprus offer a glimpse into the island’s traditional way of life.

Nestled in the Troodos mountain range they are known for their stone-built houses, cobbled streets and stunning views.

In the summer they are popular as the cooler mountain climate provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

CYPRUS: Coastline

The coastline of Cyprus stretches for over 640 kilometers (400 miles.)

It has crystal-clear waters with a mix of golden sandy beaches and rugged cliffs.

The coastline of Cyprus has played a crucial role in the island’s history and culture.

Since ancient times, ports and harbors along the coast facilitated trade and cultural exchanges between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

CYPRUS: The Romans Were Everywhere

The Romans ruled Cyprus from 58 BCE to around 330 CE.

While in Cyprus they built roads, harbors, theaters, baths, aqueducts, temples and villas.

In 1962 a farmer ploughing his field in Paphos accidentally unearthed Roman ruins, specifically, the remaining floor mosaics of opulent villas.

These mosaics are considered amongst the finest in the world. They are vibrant records of the everyday life of the Romans as well as the mythological legends of gods, goddesses and heroes. 

The Archaeological Park of Kato in Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Monday, March 31, 2025

CYPRUS: Larnaca

We started our exploration of Cyprus in Larnaca, the third-largest city on the southeastern coast of the country.

Larnaca was originally founded by the Mycenaeans in the 13th century BC, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Cyprus.

Over the centuries it was an important commercial and cultural center influenced by Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Venetian and Ottoman civilizations.