Cyprus History, Language and Culture

The history of the Republic of Cyprus stretches back thousands of years and reflects the island's strategic position between Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. Human settlement on Cyprus dates to the Neolithic period, and over the centuries the island was shaped by successive civilisations including the Mycenaean Greeks, Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians and Romans. Greek influence became particularly strong from the ancient period onward and remains central to Cypriot identity today.

Following the division of the Roman Empire, Cyprus became part of the Byzantine Empire, during which Orthodox Christianity became deeply rooted on the island. In later centuries, Cyprus was ruled by the Lusignans, Venetians and Ottomans, each leaving visible architectural and cultural influences. Venetian walls still surround parts of Nicosia, while Ottoman mosques, caravanserais and bathhouses remain present in many towns.

Britain assumed administrative control of Cyprus in 1878, and the island formally became a British colony in 1925. British influence remains visible today in areas such as the legal system, driving on the left and widespread use of English. During the 1950s, a guerrilla campaign led by EOKA sought union with Greece and eventually contributed to the end of British colonial rule.

The Republic of Cyprus gained independence in 1960, but tensions between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities continued to grow. In 1974, a coup backed by the military government in Greece aimed at union with Greece triggered a Turkish military intervention in the north of the island. Cyprus has remained divided ever since, with the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus controlling the southern part of the island and the Turkish-controlled north separated by the UN Green Line.

Despite the political division, the Republic of Cyprus has developed into a prosperous European state and joined the European Union in 2004. Tourism, shipping, financial services and international business have all played major roles in the country's modern development. At the same time, traditional village life, Orthodox religious customs and strong family ties continue to shape much of everyday life across the island.

Cyprus's layered history is visible almost everywhere, from prehistoric settlements and Greek temples to Crusader castles, Byzantine monasteries and British colonial buildings. Few Mediterranean islands contain such a concentrated mixture of cultures, empires and historical periods within such a small geographical area.

Did you know?

• Cyprus is home to Choirokoitia, one of the eastern Mediterranean's most important Neolithic settlements, dating back around 9,000 years.
• Commandaria wine has been produced in Cyprus for centuries and is often described as one of the world's oldest named wines still in production.
• Nicosia is considered the world's last divided capital city, separated by a United Nations buffer zone since 1974.