About Cyprus

Situated at the crossroads between Europe, Africa and Asia, Cyprus’ strategic position has resulted in a chequered history and one of the oldest civilisations of the world going back 10,000 years. The island is like an open-air museum where you can see the evidence left by its numerous conquerors of their stay here throughout the ages.

With practically perfect weather, beautiful scenery and a traditionally hospitable population, the island is a top European travel destination with a reputation for quality and professionalism as well as world class facilities and services.

For more information visit the Official Portal of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation

w

Fact Sheet

Area: 9.251 sq km

Climate: Temperate, Mediterranean with hot dry summers and mild winters

Geography: Central plain with mountain range to the north and southwest

Natural resources: Copper, pyrites, asbestos, gypsum, timber, salt, marble, clay earth pigment

Population: 803.200 (Dec 2009 est)

Nationality: Cypriot

Ethnic groups: Greek Cypriot 75,5% (including 1,2% Maronites, Armenians and Latins), Turkish Cypriot 10%, Other 14,5%

Religions: Most Greek Cyrpiots belong to the Greek Cyrpiot Orthodox Church, most Turkish Cypriots are Muslims, while other smaller religious groups include Armenians, Maronites and Catholics

Languages: Greek, Turkish

Government: Independent sovereign Republic with a presidential system

Capital: Lefkosia (Nicosia)

Economy: Services oriented market economy, accounting for four fifths of GDP

Sectors: Tourism, financial services, real estate

Per Capita GDP: €22.017 (2009)

Unemployment rate: 6,8% (May 2010)

Inflation rate: 1,6% (May 2010)

Agriculture products: Citrus, vegetables, barley, grapes, olives, poultry, pork, lamb, dairy, cheese

Industries: Tourism, food and beverage processing, cement and gypsum production, textiles, light chemicals, metal products, wood, paper, stone and clay products

Exports: €963.213.854 (2009)

Export partners: Germany 16%, Greece 12,6%, United Kingdom 8,8%, Italy 3,5% (2009)

Imports: €5.654.446.522 (2009)

Import partners: European Union 72%, Asia 11%, Middle East 9%, Other European countries 3% (2009)

.w
Weather
Getting to Cyprus