NORTH CYPRUS TOURIST GUIDE

The origin of the word Cyprus is uncertain. Some say Cyprus is derived from the Greek word for copper, while others say that copper is a corruption of the Greek word for Cyprus. Various historians have used various names throughout history: Kypros. Kriptos and Kition, and now Kuzey Kıbrıs – North Cyprus. Cyprus seems to evoke many images, but the reality is certain to be different. The long dusty central plain in summer becomes a blaze of colour with springtime flowers. Winter brings cold nights and snow on the Troodos mountains, whilst the sunny days can be spent exploring ancient historical sites. Few people leave Cyprus without having fallen under her spell. The weather is splendid, with sun for much of the year. The combination of the mountains and sea make the vista pleasing to the eye. Plentiful good fresh food, sandy beaches and fascinating antiquities are all on offer, but one must not forget the Cypriots. Cypriot friendliness is legendary. If you are offered a drink take it – it is offered in the spirit of friendship.

SITUATION

The North Cyprus Island is situated in the north-eastern corner of the Mediterranean Sea. It is about 40 miles from the coast of Turkey to the north, 60 miles from Syria to the east and 250 miles from Egypt to the south. It is this location that has been the islands’ fortune and mis-fortune.

AREA OF NORTHERN CYPRUS

The area of the Northern Cyprus Island is 3,572 square miles, with a coastline of 486 miles. The North covers roughly 1/3 of this. It is the third largest island in this sea, being smaller than Sicily and Sardinia.

PHYSICAL FEATURES

The most prominent topographical features of the island are the two mountain ranges separated by a wide and fertile plain – the Mesarya (meaning land between the mountains).

The Northern Range, known as the Kyrenia Mountains and the Southern Range, known as the Troodos Mountains.
The North Cyprus Kyrenia Mountain range is about 50 miles long and is composed predominantly of limestone, dolomite and marble. It makes a dramatic background to the villages perched high amongst the craggy peaks. Vultures, falcons and eagles soar above the mountain castles searching out their food.

POPULATION IN NORTH CYPRUS

The first count of the population began in 1881, soon after the British occupation of the island in 1878. There are now in the region of 200,000 people living in Northern Cyprus.

NORTH CYPRUS LANGUAGES

Turkish is the principal language. English is widely spoken and understood.

LOCAL TIME

Cyprus sun time is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, which means that it is two hours ahead of the U.K. The clocks are changed on the same date here as the U.K.