Cyprus is a separate state or not. Which country does the Republic of Cyprus belong to? Past and present: The offshore sector and the lowest taxes in the EU
- an island state in the Mediterranean Sea, whose claimed territory includes part of the territory of the island of Cyprus, with the exception of the British military bases of Akrotiri and Dhekelia, and several nearby islands.
Geography
The Republic of Cyprus controls 60% of the territory of the island of Cyprus, out of the claimed 98% (not including the territories of the military bases of the United Kingdom), as well as the islands of Agios Georgios, Geronissos, Glukiotissa, Kila, Kiedes, Kordylia and Mazaki.
Population
After the separation, the vast majority of Greek Cypriots live in the south, while the Turks live in the north. The total population is about 790 thousand people, of which 160 thousand are Turks. There are also 17,000 British, 35,000 Russians, 4,000 Armenians living in Cyprus. After the 1974 war, about 180,000 Greek Cypriots fled or were forcibly resettled south. About 42,000 Turks moved north. And only in the city of Pyla, Larnaca district, under a UN-appointed administration, both groups of the population live.
Religion
The majority of the population of Cyprus - ethnic Greeks - professes Orthodox Christianity, ethnic Turks - Islam.
The Cypriot Orthodox Church has the status of a quasi-state institution and plays a significant role in the socio-political life of the country; Primate of the Cypriot Church - Archbishop of New Justiniana and all of Cyprus. In addition to the temples (more than 500) found in almost every village, the church has 11 monasteries in Cyprus, which own the largest and most fertile lands of the island, which have year-round artificial irrigation, and other large property.
Armenian, Catholic, Maronite churches are represented, as well as Judaism and other religions.
The 1960 Constitution (Article 19) states that everyone has the right to freedom of speech, conscience and religion. All religions are equal before the law and no legislative, executive or administrative act of the Republic may discriminate against any religious institution or religious organization. Every person has the right to freedom of religion, he can study his religion individually or collectively. The only effective restrictions on such freedom are defined in the constitution of the Republic and control the security of the Republic and its citizens. All these rulings indicate that there is no religion recognized as official on the island. They also guarantee the protection of the rights of the three religious groups that make up a minority of the population (Catholics, Armenians and Maronites).
Story
The favorable strategic position of Cyprus in the Mediterranean Sea contributed to the fact that during its history it changed hands more than once, remaining on the periphery of various empires. Becoming part of Byzantium in 395, in 1191 it was captured by the crusading troops of Richard the Lionheart during the Third Crusade, becoming one of the states of the crusaders. Already in 1192, the island was transferred to the French crusader Guy de Lusignan, who founded the Lusignan dynasty in the Cypriot kingdom.
In 1489, the last queen of Cyprus, Eugenia Kornaro, handed over the island to the Venetian Republic, which had already been defeated by the Turks in 1571. Ottoman rule in Cyprus continued until 1878. In 1878, the Cyprus Convention of 1878 was concluded between the British Empire and Turkey, a secret Anglo-Turkish treaty of a "defensive alliance" directed against Russia. The treaty was signed on June 4, 1878 in Istanbul before the opening of the Berlin Congress of 1878. Great Britain undertook to help the Ottoman Empire "by force of arms" if Russia, holding Batum, Ardagan and Kars, tried to acquire new territories in Asia Minor. In return, Türkiye agreed to the British occupation of the island of Cyprus. The convention was annulled by the British on November 5, 1914 in connection with the entry of Turkey into the First World War on the side of Germany, and the annexation of Cyprus by Great Britain.
In 1960, the island gained independence, soon becoming the scene of clashes between the Greek and Turkish communities. In 1974, the island was actually divided into Greek and Turkish parts. Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004 and the Eurozone in 2008.
Transport
The British colonial authorities built a railway on the island. It opened in 1905 and had 39 stations and stops, including Famagusta and Nicosia. In 1951-52 it was closed due to low payback.
The roads in Cyprus are among the best in the European Union, and are divided into main, auxiliary paved, country roads and motorways (motorways). Movement is left-handed. The main 4 roads run along the south coast from Larnaca to Limassol and lead to Nicosia.
Buses are the only form of public transport. There are two international airports in Cyprus, in Paphos (16 km from the city) and Larnaca (2 km from the city). There is a regular flight to Larnaca from Moscow - Aeroflot, Transaero. There is also an airport in Nicosia, but due to the Greek-Turkish conflict, it is closed. The main airline serving the island is Cyprus Airways.
Larnaca Airport was opened in 1975, after the forced closure of the airport in Nicosia, and is partially located on the territory previously used by Britain as a military base.
Large seaports, after the closure of Famagusta, are Limassol and Larnaca.
Tourism
The tourism industry is one of the main items of national income. It is the responsibility of the Cyprus Tourism Organization (CTO). A significant part of the population works in this sector, and the profit brought by tourism is the main source of foreign currency inflow to the budget of the republic. Over the past 4 years, the number of tourists visiting Cyprus has increased by 29%, and tourism income by 40%.
Major resorts:
Larnaca
Pathos
Limassol
Ayia Napa
Protaras
Famagusta (under the control of the TRNC).
Kyrenia (under the control of the TRNC).
Many beaches in Cyprus have been awarded the Blue Flag of the European Union for environmental cleanliness and infrastructure. Most of these beaches are municipal, renting sun loungers and sun umbrellas is paid.
Nicosia (Lefkosia) is the capital and largest city of Cyprus. It is located in the center of the island, and is separated by a "green line". The city blocks to the north of it are controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
The second largest city in Cyprus is the seaport of Limassol, founded in Byzantine times. To the west of it is the British sovereign base of Akrotiri.
Of the resorts of Cyprus, Ayia Napa is the center of club life, along with Ibiza, and is focused mainly on young people. For family holidays, Paphos and Protaras serve mainly.
The city of Paphos is included in the UNESCO world cultural heritage list, and is also known for being close to the bay of Aphrodite. According to legend, in this place the goddess of love and beauty was born from sea foam.
The sights of Cyprus are a mixture of different eras - the Byzantine castle of Kolossi, in which Isaac Komnenos took refuge from the crusaders, the church in which Richard I the Lionheart married Princess Berengaria of Navarre, Venetian fortresses, British left-hand traffic.
The main attraction in the north of the island is Famagusta with the medieval Tower of Othello, and the "ghost town" (Varosha quarter).
Geographical proximity to a number of Mediterranean countries allows for sea cruises for tourists to Egypt, Israel, the island of Rhodes or Jordan.
Cruise liners depart from the seaports of Larnaca and Limassol, and correspond to 3-5 star hotels. The cruise time is usually about two days. Upon arrival in Israel, a visa regime applies, entry may be denied.
When renting cars, Russian citizens accept a standard driver's license, international driving licenses are not required. An age limit may be put forward, depending on the car rental company.
Cars rented to tourists have red numbers that begin with the letter Z.
It should be remembered that traffic in Cyprus is left-handed.
All drivers must give way to pedestrians moving along the pedestrian crossing.
In cities such as Nicosia, Larnaca, etc., you can get stuck in traffic jams; there may also be difficulties with free parking.
In addition to left-hand traffic, the power supply standard belongs to the British heritage - three-pin sockets (one of them is grounding, an analogue of the side contact of the euro plug), but not 230V, as in the UK, but 240V.
The local population traditionally adheres to Orthodox Christianity. There are a large number of Orthodox churches on the island, and there are many Orthodox icons for sale. Among the attractions of Cyprus are Orthodox shrines, such as the tomb of St. Lazarus in Larnaca.
Many shops and banks on the island do not work on Wednesday and Saturday, and on working days - only 8-00 - 13-00 and 15-00-17-30 in winter, 16-00 - 19-00 in summer.
There is some tension between the two communities. When communicating with Greek Cypriots, it is not recommended to mention the Turkish occupation of the northern part of the island. A particularly painful topic is the "ghost town" of Varosha.
Photographing the border zone between the Greek and Turkish sectors, military personnel and military installations is prohibited.
Among the ethnic Greeks in Cyprus, one can meet a certain number of immigrants from the former USSR (Pontic Greeks).
Currency
The national currency until January 1, 2008 was the Cypriot pound (CYP). 1 CYP was approximately equal to 2 US dollars, and was divided into 100 cents. Banknotes had inscriptions in three languages - English, Greek and Turkish.
The equivalent of the word "pound" (pound) is "lira", in Cyprus, commonly used in Turkish.
The pound was established in 1879 and was equal to the British pound until 1960. Also, like the pound sterling, it was divided into 20 shillings. However, unlike the pound sterling, it was divided into 9 piastres (kurush), which established a connection with the previous currency, the Turkish lira, which was also divided into kurush. According to the model of the Turkish lira, piastres (kurushes) were divided into 40 pairs. The pair has never been used in coins or banknotes, but has been featured on postage stamps.
Coins were introduced in ¼, ½ and 1 piastres. A coin of a quarter piastres was called by the Greek Cypriots a decara (from deka - “ten”), since it was equal to ten para, ½ piastres - ikosara (“ikosi” - twenty). Coins were also issued in 3, 4½, 9, 18 piastres, 1 and 2 shillings.
In 1959, Cyprus introduced the decimal system, dividing the pound into 1,000 milles ("thousandths"). A 5-million coin was called a "piastre" (approximate analogue), and a 20-million coin - a "shilling" (an exact analogue). In 1983, division into 100 cents ("hundredths") was additionally introduced. The smallest coin remained 5 mille, renamed ½ cent, and subsequently abolished.
Milla coins are now out of circulation. Coins of 1 or 2 cents are rare. Usually sellers try to round prices to the nearest 5 cents.
Since January 1, 2008, there has been a transition to the euro at a fixed rate of 0.585274 CYP per euro. The decision on this was taken by the European Commission on May 16, 2007 (together with Malta), confirmed by the European Parliament on June 20, 2007, and by the leaders of the European Union on June 21, 2007. The exchange rate was determined at a meeting of EU finance ministers on July 10, 2007.
Pounds remained in legal circulation (when paid in cash) until January 31, 2008. Banknotes were accepted by banking institutions until June 30, 2008.
The largest bank in Cyprus is the Bank of Cyprus.
Politic system
After gaining independence, Cyprus became one of the founders of the Non-Aligned Movement, despite the fact that all three guarantor powers (Britain, Greece and Turkey) were members of NATO. In 2004, Cyprus withdrew from the Non-Aligned Movement in order to join the European Union, but retained a special observer status in this organization.
The 1960 constitution introduced a presidential republic with the division of powers into executive, legislative and judicial, and quotas to protect the interests of ethnic Turks. The president and vice president were elected respectively by the Greek and Turkish communities for a five-year term, and had the right to veto certain initiatives of the legislative and executive authorities.
The House of Representatives was elected on the basis of separate registration of votes for both communities. Since 1964, the seats of the Turkish community have remained unoccupied.
After the split of the island, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is headed by a President and Prime Minister, responsible to the National Assembly.
The TRNC authorities reject the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus over the entire territory of the island, and call it the "Greek authorities of South Cyprus". Accordingly, the Republic of Cyprus and the international community, with the exception of Turkey, do not recognize the TRNC, and designate it as "territories occupied by Turkish troops."
Administrative-territorial division
The Republic of Cyprus is divided into 6 regions (Greek επαρχίες dioceses).
Nicosia (Λευκωσία Lefkosia), tour. Lefkoşa (Levkosha) - divided between the Greek and Turkish sectors;
Famagusta (Αμμόχωστος Amochostos), tour. Gazimağusa, Mağusa (Gazimagusa, Magusa) - Turkish sector;
Cyrene (Κυρέvεια), tour. Girne (Girne) - the Turkish sector;
Larnaca (Λάρνακα), tour. Lârnaka, İskele (Larnaca, Iskele) - the Greek sector;
Limassol (Λεμεσός Lemesos) - the Greek sector;
Paphos (Πάφος), tour. Baf (Baf) - the Greek sector.
Enclaves and exclaves
Cyprus has four exclaves belonging to the British sovereign bases of Akrotiri and Dhekelia.
Between the Greek and Turkish sectors is the UN buffer zone, which is also de facto (but not de jure) an exclave.
International status
Since May 1, 2004 Cyprus has been a member of the European Union. Citizens of the Russian Federation are required to obtain a single EU visa. As of November 2007, Cyprus is not part of the Schengen area.
The legal way to arrive on the island is through the airports of Paphos or Larnaca, or the seaports of Larnaca or Limassol. Illegal - through Turkey, and the ports of Northern Cyprus, sea or air.
Since January 1, 2008, Cyprus has been a member of the eurozone, that is, the national currency - the Cypriot pound - has been replaced by the euro.
The Republic of Cyprus adheres to the policy of non-alignment and is not a member of NATO.
The Turkish sector is indicated on the maps as "territory inaccessible due to Turkish occupation", the same on the map of the northern part of the city of Nicosia. The names of the cities of Northern Cyprus are given as of 1974, there are no road signs for these cities.
Cyprus map
Property located in Northern Cyprus, and owned until 1974 by ethnic Greeks, continues to be considered their property. The purchase of such property may be considered legal in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, but the authorities of the Greek sector may regard such a move as buying stolen goods.
Formally, 98% of the island's territory is under the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus, minus the British military bases. De facto, 38% of the territory is occupied by the unrecognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Movement between the two parts of the island is free, with a legal visa of the Republic of Cyprus. The visa of the unrecognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is issued upon entry. Insurance may not cover Turkish territory.
When returning from the northern part of the island, a customs inspection may be carried out. Since prices in Turkish territory are significantly lower, the import of goods from it is limited.
The Republic of Cyprus may refuse entry to persons who have a stamp in their passport confirming that they have visited the Republic of Macedonia. This fact is connected with the dispute of this state with Greece about its name.
Diplomatic relations with the Soviet Union were established in August 1960. On April 7, 1992, the Republic of Cyprus recognized the Russian Federation as the legal successor of the USSR. Embassies of Russia are located in the cities of Nicosia and Larnaca.
Persons with a visitor visa are prohibited from working. A work permit must be obtained prior to arrival in the Republic of Cyprus.
Island unification referendum
In April 2004, referendums were held in both Cypriot republics on unification into a single state. The proposed plan to unify the island was named after its author, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan. 65% of the citizens of the TRNC participating in the referendum supported the Annan plan, 75% of the Greek Cypriots rejected the plan.
Membership in international organizations
The Republic of Cyprus is a member of the following organizations: Australian Chemical and Biological Weapons Monitoring Group, British Commonwealth of Nations, Council of Europe, Common Foreign and Security Policy of the European Union, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, European Investment Bank, European Union, Food and Agriculture Organization United Nations (FAO), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), International Civil Aviation Organization, International Chamber of Commerce, International Criminal Court, International Meteorological Organization, International Monetary Fund, International Hydrographic Organization, International Labor Organization, International Finance Corporation, International Development Fund Agriculture, International Development Association, International Trade Union Confederation, Interpol, Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), International Telecommunication Union, Non-Aligned Movement, Inter-Parliamentary Union, International Organization for Migration, Nuclear Suppliers Group, International Olympic Committee, Permanent Court of Arbitration, Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, OSCE, UN, UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization), Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), World Federation of Trade Unions, World Intellectual Property Organization, World Meteorological Organization, World Health Organization, World Confederation of Labor, World Customs Organization, World Tourism Organization, Universal Postal Union, WTO.
Economy
Benefits: Tourism provides 20% of GDP. Industry and services for neighboring eastern countries. Member of the EU.
Weaknesses: requirement for stricter control and action against capital and tax leakages. limited liberalization. There is no foreign investment in Northern Cyprus.
The economy of Cyprus is strongly influenced by the division of the island into the Greek sector (the Republic of Cyprus) and the Turkish sector (the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus).
The economy of the Greek sector is thriving, but highly dependent on external risks. Growth rates in the 1990s reflect the island's dependence on fluctuations in tourist numbers and changing economic conditions in Western Europe. In January 2008, the island enters the Eurozone, and its monetary policy will be dictated by the European Central Bank.
The Turkish sector represents one fifth of the population and one third of the GNP compared to the Greek part of the island. Due to the fact that it is only recognized by Turkey, Northern Cyprus has difficulty with international funding, and foreign firms usually avoid investing in it. Half of the labor force is employed in agriculture, government and military service. The Turkish lira is in circulation in the northern part of the island. Türkiye also provides direct and indirect assistance to tourism, education, industry, etc.
In both sectors there is a problem of water supply, the construction of desalination stations is planned.
Past and present: The offshore sector and the lowest taxes in the EU
The offshore regime for international business companies (International Business Companies), which was in force since January 1, 1977, ceased from May 1, 2004 (from the moment the Republic of Cyprus joined the EU). The offshore regime of Cyprus assumed the application of a corporate tax rate of 4.25% for companies that did not operate in the territory of the Republic. There are currently no international business companies (they were either liquidated or re-registered during 2004-2005). The Income Tax Act 2002 provides for a general corporate tax rate of 10% for all types of companies (which is the lowest in the European Union). The existence of resident and non-resident companies is provided for.
A Cyprus tax resident is a company whose management is located in Cyprus, as well as the effective management of which takes place in Cyprus (it is enough that a large number of directors, for example 2 out of 3 are tax residents of Cyprus, and preferably citizens, and also that all meetings of the board of directors and making decisions on transactions, etc. were taken in Cyprus). A tax resident individual is a person staying in Cyprus for more than 183 days. It is important to note that in 1998 the Russian Federation and the Republic of Cyprus signed an Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation.
The establishment, operation and liquidation of companies is governed by the Companies Law of the Republic of Cyprus (The Companies Law, Cap. 113). The main motive for buying a company registered in the Republic of Cyprus is that, in accordance with paragraph 22 of Art. 8 "Exemptions" of the Law of the Republic of Cyprus dated 15.07.2002 No. 118 (I) / 2002 "On Income Tax" income from the sale of securities is exempt from taxation. Securities in the Republic of Cyprus mean shares, bonds, government bonds or shares of members of companies or other legal entities established in Cyprus or in any other jurisdiction (promissory notes do not apply to them).
In December 2008, the State Revenue Service of the Republic of Cyprus issued an information letter dated 12/17/2008 No. 2008/13, containing an expanded list of "securities" for the purposes of taxation of income of legal entities. This clarification comes into force from the moment of issuing the letter.
In accordance with the above list, the following can be classified as securities:
ordinary shares, shares of founders and preferred shares;
bonds, debentures and rights of claim on bonds and debentures;
options on securities;
short option positions, futures, forwards and swaps on securities;
depositary receipts on securities;
derivative securities linked to various indices;
REPO agreements on securities;
shares in the capital of companies that do not have shares (shares in the capital of Russian LLCs);
shares in open or closed investment funds established, registered and operating in accordance with the provisions of the legislation of the country in which they are created.
In Cyprus, it is possible to create companies of the following types:
private limited company (may be "exempted")
public limited company
Most often, Cypriot companies are used as holding companies, financial group companies, investment companies, international trading companies, leasing companies, companies in royalty schemes.
In addition, for Cypriot resident companies (which pay taxes in Cyprus), the application of EU tax directives is available, which provide various benefits. See EU tax law for details.
The volume of accumulated investments that came to Russia from Cyprus and even more through Cyprus, by 2008 amounted to more than 40 billion US dollars (out of a total volume of about 200 billion). Cyprus is consistently in the top three in terms of investment in the Russian economy. This is directly related to preferential taxation in Cyprus.
Since 2008, Russia has applied preferential taxation of dividends if their recipients are Russian organizations that have subsidiaries with their strategic participation, located both abroad and in Russia. The Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation has approved a list of states in relation to which these norms do not apply. Cyprus is one of those countries. The Cypriot authorities call this list "black" and consider it a serious problem. Currently, the Ministry of Finance of Russia and the Ministry of Finance of Cyprus are negotiating to remove Cyprus from the list. Russia links the solution of this issue with the conclusion of a protocol to the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement dated December 5, 1998 (April 16, 2009 the Protocol was initialed in its final form.). Also, Cyprus will have to be more loyal to Russia regarding the provision of information.
In December 2008, the government of Ukraine proposed to the Verkhovna Rada to denounce the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement between the USSR and Cyprus, which is currently in force with respect to Ukraine, but the Verkhovna Rada rejected this proposal. According to the Ministry of Finance of Ukraine, in 2007 UAH 4 billion 817 million 530 thousand were transferred from Ukraine to Cyprus in the form of income. At the same time, the losses of the state budget of Ukraine from the application of the provisions of the Soviet-Cypriot agreement on the avoidance of double taxation amounted to 722 million 630 thousand hryvnias.
Compliance with OECD requirements for tax transparency and information sharing
In August 2008, Act 72(I) amended the Act (Cap 4 of 1978) "On the Calculation and Collection of Tax", providing for the issuance of tax information in accordance with Art. 26 of the OECD Model Convention on the Avoidance of Double Taxation on Income and Capital.
The amendments circumvent for tax purposes statutory provisions on the prohibition of disclosure of information, including provisions on bank secrecy and obligations on non-disclosure of information obtained in the course of professional activities, which include rules on the obligation to maintain the confidentiality of information received from the client and data protection. At the same time, the right to legal professional privilege (lawyer secrecy) is preserved, and thus any information provided by the client during discussions with his lawyer cannot be disclosed to any third parties.
The key provisions of the changes made are:
The Cypriot tax authorities may withhold information when there is no mutual reciprocity (statutory provisions to implement the agreement) between Cyprus and the other Contracting State with respect to the information to be exchanged. Thus, the requesting state is required to have similar provisions and/or administrative powers to carry out the exchange of information requested by the Cyprus tax authorities.
The Cypriot tax authorities may exercise their powers to collect the requested information only after obtaining the written consent of the Attorney General of Cyprus.
The Cyprus tax authorities may request information in respect of any persons, including companies and partnerships (partnerships), which have been dissolved and struck off the Register (of Companies).
The Cyprus Tax Authorities may request any books, records or other documents, information or information in the possession, control, possession or competence of any person. The requesting state is required to provide the Cyprus tax authorities with the following information:
— Information identifying the person being investigated;
– A description of the information requested, as well as the content and manner in which the requesting state wishes to receive information from the tax authorities of Cyprus;
- Reasons and grounds for believing that the information requested is held by the Cyprus tax authorities, or may be in the possession or control of a person over whom Cyprus exercises jurisdiction;
— The name and address of any person who may have the requested information, to the extent that it may be available;
— A statement that the provision of information is subject to the laws and administrative powers of the requesting state, and when the requested information is found and established in the jurisdiction of the requested state, the relevant authorities will be able to obtain the information in accordance with their laws and ordinary administrative powers;
— A statement that the requesting State has exhausted all measures available to it in its jurisdiction to obtain the requested information, except for those measures which would impose an undue burden.
Legislation and judicial system
The legal system of Cyprus in its modern form took shape during the period of British colonial rule on the island (1878-1960). English law had a decisive influence on the formation of most branches of law; many legal institutions are no different from English ones. By the time of the British occupation of Cyprus in 1878, Ottoman law was in force on the island, which by this time had been almost completely codified, with most of the codes borrowed from France. The new law, however, had not yet had time to take root by that time.
The Cypriot Courts of Justice Order of 1882 established that in cases where at least one of the defendants was not an Ottoman citizen, English law was applied, and in other cases, Ottoman law.
Ottoman law in Cyprus included 5 codes, gradually replaced by English colonial law. The Ottoman Criminal Code was replaced in 1928 by the Cypriot Criminal Code, introduced by order in the Council; the Ottoman Commercial Code by the Partnership Law of 1928, the Bill of Exchange of 1928 and the Bankruptcy Law of 1930. The Ottoman Civil Code (Majalla), which was a codification of Sharia law, was also gradually abolished and replaced by a number of major acts. In 1930, the Contract Law (Cap. 149) was introduced, which was a very complete codification of English contract law. This act was based on the Indian Contracts Act 1872 and the Zanzibar Contracts Ordinance 1917. The Torts Act 1933 was a codification of English tort law (currently Cyprus is the only country in the British Commonwealth where tort law is codified) . The remaining articles of the Majalla were replaced by other legislation. The Ottoman Land Code was replaced by the Immovable Property (Holding, Registration and Valuation) Law of 1945. Finally, the Maritime Code is still in force to the extent that it does not contradict the Merchant Shipping Act of 1894.
In addition to the above codes, during the period of British domination, some other branches of law (for example, criminal procedure, mining) were codified.
Following the independence of Cyprus, the provisions of the English legal system were enacted by the Courts of Justice Law in 1960. According to the terminology of this Act, the civil and criminal courts are ordered to comply with the provisions of the English common law, “so far as they are not contrary to the laws in force in present, or they have not been amended by the Constitution. In cases where the relationship is not regulated by the laws of Cyprus, the courts of the island must resort to the provisions of common law and the law of equity.
Independent Cyprus develops its own case law.
In family law and some issues of personal status, the dominant role was retained by religious law (respectively, ecclesiastical law in the Greek community and Muslim law in the Turkish community).
Cyprus does not have its own legal higher education institutions. Greek Cypriots receive their legal education mainly in Greece and the UK.
At the time of the creation of an independent Cypriot state, it was assumed that the judicial system would have to reflect the bicommunal nature of the country. At the head of the highest judicial bodies - the Supreme Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court (they were merged in January 1964) - were supposed to be neutral chairmen who would not belong to any of the national communities, but had the right to vote and had to maintain a balance between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots members of the above courts.
The 1960 constitution provided that only a Turkish judge could judge Turkish Cypriots, and a Greek judge over Greek Cypriots. In the event that Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots participated in the lawsuit, the case was considered by a mixed court. Communal offices of Greek and Turkish lawyers were established, with legislative and administrative powers in relation to disputes over education, religion, culture, sports, cooperatives and credit societies. After intercommunal clashes in 1963, mixed courts ceased to exist. The Supreme Court consists of 13 members appointed by the President of the Republic. It is the highest court of appeal in the country. The Supreme Court appoints the judges of the lower courts and resolves all issues related to their professional promotion, disciplinary liability, dismissal, etc.
Civil cases and minor offenses punishable by up to 3 years in prison or up to £500 fine are heard in the District Courts. The Assize Courts have jurisdiction over more serious cases. The court of appeal against them is the Supreme Court of Cyprus. There are no courts in the Republic of Cyprus dealing with special categories of criminal cases (for example, those related to national security). However, there are special courts for some non-criminal cases: the Labor Court, the Rent Control Court and the Family Court. These courts exercise exclusive jurisdiction in relevant matters, their decisions can only be challenged in terms of law to the Supreme Court. The Attorney General of the Republic of Cyprus (Attorney General) acts as the Chief Legal Adviser to the President of the Republic and the Council of Ministers and is also the Director of the Department of Public Prosecutions.
The composition of the Supreme Court of the separate state - the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus - includes the chairman and 4 judges. It also performs the functions of the constitutional court, the highest administrative court and the court of cassation. Just like in the Republic of Cyprus, district courts with 1 judge hear cases punishable by imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, assize courts with 3 judges hear more serious cases.
In 1991, the position of Ombudsman (commissioner for human rights) was established in the Republic of Cyprus. The bar is organized in the form of partnerships operating on the basis of the Partnerships Act (repeating the English Act of the same name of 1890). Upon completion of their legal education, barristers must pass the bar exam administered by the Legal Board and complete a one-year internship with a barrister with at least five years of experience. A lawyer with at least 3 years of experience has the right to appear in any court of the country.
Economy of Northern Cyprus
The problems of the economy of the so-called TRNC (the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is recognized only by Turkey and Nakhchivan, an Autonomous Entity within Azerbaijan) include a lack of investment, skilled labor and experienced managers, to which inflation is added, and dependence on the Turkish lira. Türkiye provides 55% of the exports, and receives 48% of the imports of Northern Cyprus. The European Court of Justice, in a ruling dated July 5, 1994, declared illegal the British practice of importing goods from Northern Cyprus that have the appropriate licenses and certificates from the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. According to the regulation, EU members can only accept goods that have certificates from the Republic of Cyprus. This decision caused a decline in TRNC exports to the EU, from 66.7% of total exports in 1993 to 35% in 1996. Despite this, the EU remains the second largest trading partner of the TRNC.
The first important foreign trade partner for the TRNC is Turkey, which provides significant economic assistance. Since the Turkish lira is in circulation in the TRNC, until 2005, hyperinflation was a negative factor, which continued until the introduction of the new Turkish lira.
The authorities of the Turkish sector of Cyprus adhere to the principles of free foreign trade, and allow permanent residents to have bank accounts in foreign currency.
Also, the TRNC authorities are widely trying to sell real estate to foreigners, which is expressly prohibited by the legislation of the Republic of Cyprus.
Widely known is the dispute between Mr. Apostolidi and the Orams spouses (citizens of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), which arose in connection with the acquisition by the latter of a land plot in Northern Cyprus from a private seller. Mr. Apostolidi, whose family was forced to leave in 1974 northern territory of the island, appealed to the District Court of Nicosia, which on 09.11.2004 upheld his claims in the absence of the defendants (19.04.2005, in their presence, the Court refused to cancel the decision) to recognize his ownership of the land, and also obliged the spouses Orams to demolish the villa, destroy the swimming pool and pay various amounts, including legal costs.On 21.12.2006, the Supreme Court of the Republic of Cyprus rejected the appeal of the Orams spouses.
On 10/18/2005, Mr. Apostolidi applied in accordance with EU Regulation No. 44/2001 of 12/22/2000 "On jurisdiction, and recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters" to the competent court of Great Britain for recognition and enforcement of judgment decision of the Cypriot court of 09.11.2004, as a result of which, on 21.10.2005, the President of the Queen's Bench Division of the High Court of England and Wales (a Master of the Queen's Bench Division of the High Court of England and Wales) ruled in an order that this decision of the Cypriot court is subject to performance in England.
Spouses Orams in accordance with Art. 43 of the Rules successfully challenged the order with a High Court Judge, Mr Justice Jack. In turn, Mr. Apostolidi filed an appeal for contesting such a decision to cancel the order in accordance with Article 44 of the Rules to the Court of Appeal, which, by order of 19.06.2007 (received on 14.09.2007), appealed to the EU Court of Justice in a prejudicial procedure.
Telecommunications
The dominant telecommunications company and Internet service provider is CYTA, which is state-owned. Due to recent liberalization, several private companies have emerged in this sector.
Education and science
In total, there are six universities in Cyprus: 3 public and 3 private. The state ones include the University of Cyprus, the Open University of Cyprus and the Cyprus Technological University. In addition to the three private universities (Cyprus European University, Cyprus Frederic University and the University of Nicosia), there are several institutions: the Cyprus Academy of Public Administration, the Graduate School of Hospitality, the Mediterranean Institute of Management and the Cyprus International Institute of Management.
National holidays
New Year - January 1
Epiphany - January 6
Green Monday (beginning of Lent, 50 days before Orthodox Easter)
Greek National Day - March 25
National Day of Cyprus - April 1
Good Friday - variable date
Bright Monday (Monday after Easter)
International Labor Day - May 1
Kataklysmos (festival in honor of the Great Flood), Monday after Trinity
Assumption - August 15
Cyprus Independence Day - October 1
Greek National Holiday (OHI Day) - October 28
Christmas Eve - December 24
Christmas - December 25
Christmas time - December 26
Cypriot cuisine
The cuisine of Cyprus is based on Mediterranean dishes, primarily Greek and Turkish. These include meze (a set of numerous snacks and dishes united by one theme - meat or fish), common both in Greece and Turkey, and kleftiko - baked goat or lamb meat. But traditional still is the use of goat meat.
Kleftiko is translated as “stolen meat”, as shepherds used to hide stolen meat in the ground and cook it by making a fire from above. Today, this dish is cooked in a tightly closed oven. Thanks to the cooking method, the meat is tender and easily moves away from the bones.
Also traditional are dishes on the grill - souvla and souvlaki. Deep-fried cutlets keftedes and sheftalia (minced meat with herbs and grated potatoes).
Local seafood specialties include squid and octopus in red wine. From sweets, jam from local fruits, vegetables and nuts is common - from walnuts in soft shells, eggplants, figs, etc.
Cypriots also consider their dish churchkhella (in Greek “shuzhuko”) - nuts strung on ropes and covered with frozen grape syrup. Rose water is widely used in cooking.
Cypriot coffee "metrio" is similar to Turkish coffee - served directly with thick and a glass of ice water.
Cinnamon is of great importance in Cypriot cuisine - it is added to almost all dishes: sweets, meat, cutlets, vegetable stews.
Commandaria wine is famous, the production of which began during the time of the Crusaders. Local beers KEO and Leon are popular.
British heritage in the field of cooking is expressed in the traditional "English breakfast" of scrambled eggs with bacon and beans. Some bars serve beer in English pints.
Armed forces
The basis of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Cyprus is the National Guard (Greek Εθνική Φρουρά), founded in 1964, and including land (SV), sea (Navy) and air (Air Force) components. The total number of the National Guard is about 14 thousand people.
The Ground Forces of the National Guard of the Republic of Cyprus include the 1st and 2nd Infantry Divisions, the 3rd and 4th Separate Infantry Brigades, the 20th Separate Armored Brigade, the Separate Commando Brigade, the Field Artillery Command, units and subunits of central command.
The air component includes helicopter squadrons 449 and 450, a training aviation squadron, a separate missile defense division, two air defense divisions, and an air defense missile battery. (see Cyprus Air Force for details)
The naval forces include a naval base (n. p. Zygi) and are armed with several patrol boats (for more details, see the Naval Forces and the Maritime Police of Cyprus).
In addition, on the basis of the “Treaty on Security Guarantees of the Republic of Cyprus” of 1960, Greece maintains its troops on the territory of the Republic of Cyprus (ELDIK - Greek Ελλινικών Δυνάμεων στην Κύπρο) of over two thousand people.
The main suppliers of weapons and military equipment are Greece, Russia and France. The United States and Great Britain imposed an embargo on the supply of weapons due to the unresolved Cyprus problem.
The personnel are recruited by conscription from among men aged 16 and over, the duration of military service is 24 months (from 01.01. and is obligatory for persons whose father is a Greek Cypriot. Religious minorities (Armenians, Catholics, Maronite Christians) do not need to be drafted. Turks are not subject to conscription.
Guests of the island - men over 16 years old - with a Cypriot father must obtain an exit visa from the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Cyprus.
Embassies and consulates
Moscow, Povarskaya st., 9 (metro station Arbatskaya) Phone: (495) 744-2933, 744-2934
Embassy opening hours: Monday - Friday from 9.00 to 16.30
The Consular Section is open for receiving documents: Monday-Friday from 10.00 to 14.00
For the issuance of documents: Monday-Friday from 14.00 to 15.00
Passports, for the purpose of issuing a visa on the day of their submission, must be submitted no later than 12.00 noon.
Days off: Saturday-Sunday
Representation of the Ministry of Tourism of Cyprus in Moscow
st. Dmitry Ulyanov, house 16, bldg. 2, apt. 125. tel. 124-00-61, fax 124-33-97. Art. metro station "Akademicheskaya" Opening hours: Monday - Friday from 11:00 to 16:30.
Attractions
The main attractions of the country: the tomb of Lazarus, the tomb of Hala Sultan, the archaeological Museum of Antiquities.
In the old part of Famaguasta there is a fortress of the XIV-XV centuries, where the prototype of Othello, the Venetian commander Christopher Moreau, lived in the tower.
The ruins of the ancient city of Salamis.
Near Kyrenia, the ruins of the Gothic Bellapais Abbey, Shipwreck Museum.
Monastery of Stavrovouni, founded, according to legend, in 327 by St. Helena.
A state in Western Asia, on the island of Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.
The name of the country comes from the Greek kyparisos - "cypress".
Official name: Republic of Cyprus
Capital: Nicosia
The area of the land: 9.25 thousand sq. km
Total population: 794 thousand people
Administrative division: 6 districts.
Form of government: Republic.
Head of State: The president.
Composition of the population: 80% - Greeks, 18% - Turks, other nationalities - 2%. Many foreigners, including Russians.
Official language: Greek and Turkish, English is also widely spoken.
Religion: 80% are Orthodox, 20% profess Sunni Islam. Ethnic composition. 80% - Greek Cypriots, 18% - Turks.
Internet domain: .cy
Mains voltage: ~230 V, 50 Hz
Phone country code: +357
Country barcode: 529
Climate
Cyprus belongs to the subtropical climate zone, the Mediterranean region. Winter on the island is mild and warm. The average temperature of the coldest month - January - +12 degrees on the coast and +4 degrees in mountainous areas. Most of the precipitation (70-80 mm) falls during the winter months. Spring and autumn are short. In summer, the temperature is +28 - +30 degrees in the plains and about +28 degrees in the Troodos mountains. The heat can reach +35 degrees, but by the sea it is quite easily tolerated. There is very little precipitation at this time. You can swim in the sea already in April, when the water temperature reaches +20 degrees. In August, it warms up to +28 degrees.
The height of snow in the Troodos mountains reaches 140 cm.
Geography
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean. In size, it is second only to Sicily and Sardinia. The length of the island from north to south is about 100 km, from west to east - about 225 km. It can be said that west and east meet on this island - its eastern part, the smaller one, belongs to Turkey, and the rest, as it were, is a continuation of Greece. But due to its proximity to the countries of Asia Minor, Cyprus is referred to as Western Asia.
Although the area of the island is small - 9.3 thousand square meters. km - on its territory you can meet mountains, and vast fields, and fertile hollows, and forests. The northern coast is mostly rocky, but the southern coast is rich in beaches with sandy bays. Mountains occupy almost half of the island. The main mountain systems of Cyprus are Kyrenia in the north and Troodos in the southwest. The highest point of the Troodos - Mount Olympus (1953 m) - is also the highest point of the island. Between the two massifs are the fertile valleys of the Mesaoria in the east and the Morphou basin in the west.
There are no rivers in Cyprus that flow all year round - they all dry up somewhere at the end of spring. To solve the problem of water shortage on the island, about a hundred dams were built. In addition to artificial lakes formed by dams, Cyprus has salt lakes in Larnaca and Akotiri.
Flora and fauna
Vegetable world
In the foothills and on the plains (up to a height of 500 m), thickets of evergreen shrubs (maquis, frigana) predominate. Forests are preserved mainly in the mountains and occupy about 20% of the territory, they consist of oak, cypress, Aleppo pine, giant cacti. There are groves of lemon and orange trees.
In total, there are 1890 different types of trees on the island, including endemic ones, i.e., characteristic only for this territory. The flora of Cyprus is not without reason called a botanical paradise. Anemones grow in the forests, and along the edges of roads and in wastelands - asphodiles, which in ancient times were considered the mysterious flowers of the underworld.
Animal world
The fauna of Cyprus is poorer than the flora. There are wild sheep (mouflons), chameleons, lizards, turtles, squirrels, weasels, wild rabbits and snakes. Of the birds, of which there are more than 300 species on the island, there are dippers, great tits, jays, crested crows, crossbills, larks, nightingales, imperial eagles and kites.
Attractions
Cyprus is an ancient and mysterious land, the center of the Mediterranean trade of antiquity, the crossroads of the sea routes of the Middle Ages, the birthplace of many legends and tales. The abundance of cultural monuments on its land is simply countless, and the wonderful climate, gentle sun and warm sea have made it one of the largest resort regions in the world. The island is relatively small, so if you have a car and a certain amount of time, you can "explore" it in sufficient detail, fully getting acquainted with the culture and history of this ancient land.
Banks and currency
The monetary unit of Cyprus is the Cypriot pound and the euro. In circulation are banknotes in denominations of 20, 10, 5, 1 pounds, as well as coins of 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.
It is better to change currency in banks, and not in hotel exchange offices, where, as a rule, the rate is less favorable. On the other hand, an exchange at a bank usually takes much longer. Banks are open from 8-30 to 12-30 daily, except Saturday and Sunday. Some banks in the tourist area are open in the afternoon.
Useful information for tourists
Greek Cypriots are friendly, hospitable people. In conversations with them, it is better not to touch on the topic of the occupation of part of the island by the Turks.
For photography and filming in state museums, you need to obtain a special permit, and the request is sent in writing. It is forbidden to photograph the border zone between the two parts of Cyprus, soldiers and military installations.
When visiting monasteries and churches, women must be covered with shoulders, in skirts, not trousers, men - in trousers, not shorts. In addition, photography and video filming are generally prohibited in churches.
Despite the dominance of the metric system of measures and weights, the main measure of weight in Cyprus is the drachma (100 drachmas are equal to 320 grams).
Tipping in a restaurant is usually 10% of the bill and 3% to the Cyprus Tourism Organization. In the hotel it is customary to leave a few coins for the maids. In a taxi, the amount is usually rounded up to the next whole number.
Cyprus is what country? Let's look into this issue together. First of all, we note that this is an independent state since 1960. Previously, it was part of the population speaks Greek, part - Turkish. In 1974, Turkish troops invaded the island and occupied its northern part. Since that time, more than one hundred and fifty thousand settlers have arrived in Cyprus.
The country is part of the European Union, its population is called Cypriots.
Territories in the north and south
Cyprus is divided into two parts. The north is controlled by the Turks. They formed in this area the TRNC - the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. However, only the Turks themselves recognize it. The rest call this territory occupied. The Republic of Cyprus is which country? Sovereign. It is located in the southern part of the island. Sometimes it is mistakenly called Greek Cyprus.
Common misconception
Cyprus is what country? The state in question, of course, has broad cultural ties with Greece, but still it is independent. It is an internationally recognized country that is legally endowed with sovereignty over the entire island and its surrounding waters. The only exceptions are three percent of the territory, which, according to the annex to the decree on the founding of the republic, is assigned to Great Britain for the deployment of naval bases. As for the real state of affairs, the island is divided into four parts:
- (in the north);
Republic of Cyprus (in the south);
The so-called Green Line separating the two above-mentioned parts and controlled by the UN;
Two military bases in Britain - "Dhekelia" and "Akrotiri".
History of Cyprus
This island is the third largest among all the others in the Mediterranean. Looking at Cyprus on the map, one can understand why the country had to overcome many difficulties and repel the constant raids of the invaders. Everything is explained simply: for numerous neighbors, this island played the role of a naval base, was a source of taxes and valuable natural resources. The Greeks who brought civilization to these territories were attacked by the Assyrians, Persians, Romans, Phoenicians, Venetians, Byzantines, Latin Crusaders, British and Turks. Many wanted to get power over the island, but the Greeks managed to maintain a leading position.
prehistoric period
In the Paleolithic era, the island was not yet inhabited by people, only Cypriot pygmy elephants (hippos) lived there. This has been repeatedly confirmed by the found remains of animals. Unfortunately, they all died out after the man mastered Cyprus. It happened in the Neolithic era, about nine to ten thousand years BC. The first people brought with them livestock - goats, cows, pigs, dogs. Newly minted Cypriots actively erected dwellings from burnt lime. Some houses were ten meters in diameter.
Then the history of Cyprus takes a dramatic turn: around 3800 BC there was a powerful earthquake that destroyed the entire Neolithic culture. The Copper-Stone Age has come to replace it. Unique artifacts have survived to this day - chisels and hooks made of pure copper.
The next stage in the development of history on the island in question is associated with the arrival of migrants from Anatolia. This happened around 2400 BC. e. - at the dawn of the Bronze Age. It was during this period that defensive fortresses began to appear, which indicates the tense situation of that time.
Found ceramic objects dating back to the Iron Age allow us to conclude that Cyprus was under the influence of the Greeks. The prehistoric period of the development of the island ended with the appearance of Assyrian, and then Greek and Roman written sources telling about these territories.
Antiquity
In the era of antiquity, Cyprus was still a disputed territory. In 526 BC, the Persians conquered it from the Egyptians, and in 449 the island came under the rule of the Athenians. The conquerors of many countries of the world wrested the reins of government from each other in Cyprus for a long time. So, historians single out the Roman period, then the Byzantine one. In 1191, the island was captured by the crusaders led by Richard the Lionheart. Subsequently, the island was occupied by the Ottomans, as well as the British.
Period of intercommunal tension
In 1960, Cyprus gained its long-awaited independence. Representatives of Turkey, England and Greece took part in the negotiations. As a result, the island was divided into two communities - Turkish and Greek. The first president was Archbishop Makarios. According to the Constitution of 1960, two communities were recognized - Greek (about 80% of the population) and Turkish (about 18%). At the same time, Turkish Cypriots received a third of all positions in the government apparatus and the right to veto laws. In addition, their representative also became the vice-president of the country.
All the growing tension between the communities resulted in an armed clash. This event took place in 1963. The fighting ended only after the entry of UN peacekeeping forces, but it was not possible to completely extinguish the conflict.
military coup
The tense situation led to new clashes in 1974. As a result, a military junta came to power. The coup attempt was made by Greek Cypriot right-wing extremists. Legitimately elected President Makarios was overthrown. Cyprus reunited with Greece. Five days later, the Turkish authorities, under the pretext of protecting the Cypriot Turks, brought in their troops and occupied about forty percent of the northern territories of the country. As a result of this conflict, about six thousand people died and at least two hundred thousand left the island in refugee status.
Monuments were destroyed on the land occupied by the Turks, Byzantine churches were plundered, many cultural values were taken out of the country. On November 1, 1983, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was proclaimed. So far, no state in the world has recognized it. The problem of the division of the island worries the Cypriots even today.
Symbolism
(photo you can see below) is a white cloth with a silhouette of the island. The color of the latter is orange, and this is no coincidence, since it symbolizes the vast deposits of copper discovered in Cyprus around the year 3000 BC. Below the image of the island are two branches of an olive tree, representing the ethnic groups of Turks and Greeks living on the island. It is noteworthy that no other flag in the world uses the image of the contours of the country.
Geographical position
Cyprus on the map is located at the intersection of the following regions: Asia Minor, North Africa and Europe. The island is stretched from west to east for 240 km, and from north to south - for 100 km. Its area is more than 9 thousand square meters. km. The Mediterranean Sea, washing Cyprus, makes the country attractive for beach lovers. The island shores are mostly low-lying, slightly indented, and in the north they are rocky and steep. Their total length is about six hundred and fifty kilometers.
The coordinates of Cyprus are 35º10ˈ00ˈˈ north latitude and 33º21ˈ00ˈˈ south longitude.
Peculiarities
The geography of Cyprus owes its originality to the strongest volcanic eruption at the junction of the African and Asian geographical plates, as a result of which the island was formed. The relief is predominantly mountainous. For almost 150 kilometers along the northern coast, the Kyrenia ridges (the maximum height is 1023 m) and Karpas (the highest point is 364 m) stretch. They are different in structure, because they were formed under the influence of unequal conditions. The southern and central territories are occupied by the Troodos mountain range.
What else is remarkable about Cyprus? The geographical position of the island at the crossroads of air and sea routes makes it an important strategic object in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Weather
The climate in Cyprus is characterized by stability and moderation. It is tropical Mediterranean, thanks to which the average life expectancy of the islanders is higher than, for example, the Americans or the British. Cypriots rarely suffer from infectious diseases.
In summer, the temperature fluctuates between 25-35 degrees Celsius, and in winter it almost never drops below +10 Celsius. The period from October to April is usually rainy. The most favorable time for a beach holiday is from June to September. Hikers prefer to go to Cyprus in the spring when the flowers are in bloom. The views of flowering meadows in Troodos are truly impressive.
Minerals
The island produces copper, marble, lime sulphate (gypsum), bentonite clay and natural dyes (ocher, umber). Thanks to the export of these resources, the Cypriot treasury is annually replenished by 32 million euros.
In December 2011, deposits of natural gas were discovered on the island (south of the coast). Their estimated volume is from 160 to 255 billion cubic meters.
Vegetable world
Evergreen shrubs grow on the plains and foothills. Forests can be seen mainly in the highlands, they are made up of oaks, cypresses, Aleppo pines and giant cacti. There are orange and lemon groves. In total, 1890 different types of trees grow on the territory of Cyprus, among them there are endemic ones, i.e., characteristic only for this territory. Anemones can be found in the forests, and asphodels can be found in wastelands and along roadsides. In ancient times, they were considered mysterious messengers of the underworld.
Animal world
The fauna of Cyprus is not as rich as the flora. Wild boars, lizards, chameleons, turtles, wild rabbits, weasels, snakes and squirrels live there. There are more than three hundred species of birds on the island, including jays, great tits, dippers, crossbills, crested crows, larks, imperial eagles, nightingales and kites.
Religion
Most Cypriots adhere to the Christian faith. There are many Orthodox churches on the island. According to the law, religion exists separately from the state. Each resident is free to choose their own faith. So, Christians, Jews, Islamists, and Hindus live in Cyprus.
Attractions
Cyprus is what country? Independent and beautiful! Connoisseurs of antiquity are attracted by the ruins of ancient cities, monasteries, temples, residential buildings. The abundance of monuments is explained by the fact that during Antiquity the island was the center of Mediterranean trade and was a crossing point for sea routes in the Middle Ages.
Nicosia
This city is one of the oldest in the world. Nicosia in the tenth century had the status of the capital of the island. At present, it is not established exactly when this settlement was founded. Traces of the first settlers date back to the Bronze Age. At that time, the city had a different name - Ledra.
Currently, Nicosia is shared, but even this fact does not detract from its charm. The central part of the city is surrounded by the gates of the Venetian wall, built in 1570, and huge stone bastions. It has a radial layout and is called Old Nicosia.
The most outstanding architectural masterpiece of Nicosia is the Famagusta Gate, inside which exhibitions and musical evenings are held. In the central part of the city, you can admire the old limestone houses, stroll along Freedom Square and visit interesting shops, coffee houses and restaurants.
Not far from the gates of Famagusta is the ancient Byzantine church of Chrysaliniotissa, built back in 1450.
And outside the Venetian walls there is something to admire. So, on the site of the fortress moat, the Municipal Park was laid out. This place, like no other, is suitable for relaxing walks. Nearby is the Cyprus Museum. Its fourteen halls house numerous archaeological exhibits.
Limassol
This city - the second largest after Nicosia, is located on the southern coast of the island. It is not as ancient as the capital, but it attracts no less tourists thanks to its beautiful beaches and resorts. Among the latter are Centralos, Amatos and Yermasoyas. In addition, there are interesting historical monuments in Limassol, among which there is even a monument erected in honor of Pushkin.
Not far from the city is Troodos Island - a large picturesque massif. On its territory is the ancient residence of the rulers - the castle of Kolossi, built by the Knights Hospitaller. An observation deck is organized on the tower, from which an amazing view of the surroundings opens.
Amathus
This is another ancient city of Cyprus. Currently, only ruins remain of it. It is established that it was founded about a thousand years BC. Over the next six centuries, Amathus flourished and developed. In the 7th century AD Arabs attacked the city. The conquerors did not spare Amathus, as a result it was very badly destroyed. Finally razed to the ground this city Richard the Lionheart. At the site of the ruins, archaeologists managed to find baths, the sanctuary of Aphrodite, a system of water pipes and a basilica from the early Christian period.
It is not for nothing that the surroundings of Amathus are called the Cypriot Riviera - there are gorgeous beaches, great weather, decent hotels, upscale restaurants, cafes and nightclubs.
Embassy in the Russian capital
How to get a visa to visit the described island? To do this, you need to visit the embassy of Cyprus. In Moscow, it is located at: st. Povarskaya, 9. Opening hours - from 9.30 to 16.30. At the same time, documents are accepted until two in the afternoon, and issued from two to three. A visa is issued from three to fourteen days. Currently, the consular fee is 15 euros.
Conclusion
Cyprus is an island of which country? We found out that it currently has autonomy. This state is not subject to either Greece or Turkey. That is why the question of which country Cyprus is in is incorrect, and may even hurt the feelings of local residents.
Encyclopedic YouTube
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✪ Cyprus - the island of Aphrodite
✪ Cyprus - Orthodox Island
✪ History of Cyprus. History of Cyprus.
✪ Cyprus is the sunniest and most popular island!
✪ Cyprus in May: a trip around the island by car
Subtitles
Geography
The island stretches for 240 km from east to west, and reaches a width of 100 km from north to south. Area - 9251 km².
Relief
Most of the island is occupied by mountains. The Kyrenia mountain range stretches along the northern coast in a latitudinal direction. Its width in the western part is 15 km, to the east it expands to 25-30 km. The western part of the Kyrenia range is higher; some peaks exceed 1 thousand m. The highest point of the ridge is Mount Akromanda (1023 m). The southwestern half of the island is occupied by the wide Troodos mountain range, cut by longitudinal river valleys. Its northern part is the highest, here is also the highest point of Cyprus - Mount Olymbos (1952 m).
Climate
Average temperatures in Cyprus:
Flora and fauna
The fauna of Cyprus is not distinguished by its richness and diversity of species. Of the rare animals of the island, the endemic Cypriot mountain sheep, the mouflon, living in the Troodos mountains and in the wooded area of Paphos, is especially interesting. In recent years, hunting for it has been banned by the government. Foxes and hares are found in the forest zone of the mountains. In the lowlands along the coast and on the slopes of the mountains, there are many different species of lizards, turtles and snakes. There are especially many of them in the ruins of ancient cities - Salamis, Paphos, etc. Chameleon is found in forest thickets near the coast. There are many amphibians in Cyprus, especially tree frogs.
see also
Story
The first traces of civilization in Cyprus date back to the Neolithic period, around 8000 BC. e., and are over 9,000 years old. There are traces of the Stone Age, the Copper Age, the Bronze Age up to the end of the second millennium BC on the island. e. An important stage in the history of Cyprus is the settlement of the island by ancient Greek colonists in the XII-XI centuries BC. e., about 3000 years ago after the end of the period of the Trojan Wars.
This is what determined the cultural face of the island. During this period, the Greek language, art, religion and traditions were introduced. In addition, cities were founded that exist to this day.
In ancient times, Cyprus was famous for its copper ore deposits and forests. This is what made it the object of aspirations of the powerful states of the Mediterranean.
The Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians alternately captured the island and owned it, until it was destroyed in 333 BC. e. did not conquer Alexander Macedonian.
The disciple of Ptolemy, the philosopher Zenon of Kition, who founded the philosophical school of Stoicism in Athens, glorified Cyprus.
Since 1964, a contingent of UN peacekeeping forces in Cyprus has been stationed on the island, which currently numbers 1,216 troops. UN peacekeeping forces arrived after inter-communal armed clashes broke out in December 1963, and Turkey threatened to intervene. Given that there is a 35,000-strong Turkish army in the occupied northern part of the island, the main task of the peacekeepers is to control the buffer zone and ensure that the ceasefire is not violated.
According to the 2006 census, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus has a population of 265,100.
Religion
The majority of the population of Cyprus are ethnic Greeks who practice Orthodox Christianity and ethnic Turks who practice Islam.
Between the Greek and Turkish sectors is the UN buffer zone, which is also a de facto exclave.
Politic system
After gaining independence, the Republic of Cyprus became one of the founders of the Non-Aligned Movement, despite the fact that all three guarantor powers (Britain, Greece and Turkey) were members of NATO. In 2004, Cyprus withdrew from the Non-Aligned Movement in order to join the European Union, but retained a special observer status in this organization.
The Republic of Cyprus adheres to the policy of non-alignment, and is not part of NATO.
The Turkish sector is indicated on the maps of the Republic of Cyprus as "territory inaccessible due to Turkish occupation", the same on the map of the northern part of the city of Nicosia. The names of the cities of Northern Cyprus are given as of 1974, there are no road signs for these cities.
Real estate located in Northern Cyprus, and owned until 1974 by ethnic Greeks, continues to be considered their property. The purchase of such property may be considered legal in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, but the authorities of the Greek sector may regard such a move as buying stolen goods.
Formally, 98% of the island's territory is under the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus, minus the British military bases. De facto, 38% of the territory is occupied by the partially recognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Movement between the two parts of the island is free, with a visa of the Republic of Cyprus. A visa of the partially recognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is issued upon entry. Insurance may not cover Turkish territory.
When returning from the northern part of the island, a customs inspection may be carried out. Since prices in Turkish territory are significantly lower, the import of goods from it is limited.
The Republic of Cyprus may refuse entry to persons who have a stamp in their passport confirming that they have visited the Republic of Macedonia. This fact is connected with the dispute of this state with Greece about its name.
Diplomatic relations with the Soviet Union of the Republic of Cyprus were established in August 1960. On April 7, 1992, the Republic of Cyprus recognized the Russian Federation as the legal successor of the USSR. The Russian Embassy is located in the city of Nicosia.
Persons with a visitor visa are prohibited from working. A work permit must be obtained prior to arrival in the Republic of Cyprus.
Island unification referendum
In April 2004, referendums were held in both Cypriot republics on unification into a single state. The proposed plan for the unification of the island was named after its author, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan. 65% of the citizens of the TRNC who participated in the referendum supported the Annan plan, 75% of the Greek Cypriots rejected the plan.
Economy
Advantages: tourism provides 20% of GDP. Industry and services for neighboring eastern countries, the banking sector is developed. Member of the EU.
Weak sides: the demand for stricter control and action against capital and tax leakages. limited liberalization. There is no foreign investment in Northern Cyprus.
The economy of Cyprus is strongly influenced by the division of the island into the Greek sector (Republic of Cyprus) and Turkish (partially recognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus).
The Greek sector economy experienced a speculative boom associated with offshore capital inflows between 1990-2008, but is highly dependent on external risks. Growth rates in the 1990s reflect the island's dependence on fluctuating tourist numbers and changing economic conditions in Western Europe. In January 2008, the Republic of Cyprus entered the eurozone, and its monetary policy is dictated by the European Central Bank, which reduced the republic's competitiveness in world markets and ultimately brought the country to the brink of a financial and economic crisis in 2012-2013. As a result of the crisis unrest prices for residential real estate have dropped significantly. So in the municipal residential sector, the cost of housing ranges from 400 euros per square meter of construction. In the private sector, the cost of land per hundred square meters varies on average from 1,700 to 50,000 euros.
The Turkish sector represents one fifth of the population and one tenth of the GNP compared to the Greek part of the island. Due to the fact that it is recognized only by Turkey among the UN member states, Northern Cyprus has difficulties with international financing, and foreign firms usually avoid investing in it. Half of the labor force is employed in agriculture, government and military service. In the turnover of the northern part of the island is the Turkish lira. Türkiye also provides direct and indirect assistance to tourism, education, industry and more.
In the Turkish sector, there is a problem of water supply, the construction of desalination stations is planned.
Transport
There are three international airports in Cyprus, two are located on the Greek part of the island in Paphos (16 km from the city) and Larnaca (2 km from the city). There is also a full-fledged operating airport in Nicosia - Ercan (Ercan), All flights to Northern Cyprus pass through the territory of Turkey. The main airline serving the Greek part of the island, Cyprus Airways, ceased to exist in 2015.
Larnaca Airport was opened in 1975, after the forced closure of the airport in Nicosia, and is partially located on the territory previously used by Britain as a military base.
Large seaports, after the closure of Famagusta, are Limassol and Larnaca.
Tourism
The tourism industry is one of the main items of national income. It is the responsibility of the Cyprus Tourist Organization (CTO). A significant part of the population works in this sector, and the profit brought by tourism is the main source of foreign currency inflow to the budget of the republic. Over the last 4 years [ which?] the number of tourists visiting Cyprus increased by 29%, and income from tourism - by 40%.
This is the place where you want to return again and again for a lot of positive emotions and unforgettable impressions!
This small piece of land in the blue waters of the Mediterranean is called a variety of epithets: the island of wine, the island of love, the island of olives, paradise!
Kyrenia ancient city
General information about the country
Before we plunge into the atmosphere of bliss and bliss, let's first understand Cyprus - which country is this?
Northern Cyprus
According to official sources, the territory of the Republic includes 98% of the territory of the island of Cyprus and 7 nearby islands.
The ancient city of Kourion in Cyprus
The island of Cyprus is an attractive place for travelers
By its size, Cyprus is the third peninsula in the Mediterranean after Sardinia. Its total area is 9251 km. Geographically, it belongs to Asia.
If you look at the map of the world, then the famous neighbors are three countries:, and. Therefore, Cyprus can be considered a link between these three continents.
Pathos
This place is attractive for tourists, as the island has a rich and eventful historical past. A trip to Cyprus can often be compared to a mini trip around the world.
Having visited the island, you can simultaneously meet Gothic cathedrals, Byzantine monasteries, Venetian fortresses, Roman theaters, Greek temples. The whole air of this island is saturated with secrets and mysteries of different eras!
Larnaca
Cyprus - beach holidays at sea
Each of us has heard about a beach holiday in Cyprus! To visit the island of love is the dream of any tourist.
Tours to Cyprus are always popular due to the mild climate, unique nature, clean beaches.
Church of Panagia
The variety of beaches here is so great that almost any tourist will be able to choose the right option for themselves.
Ferry "Zenobia"
The sea in Cyprus gives a lot of opportunities to have a great time on vacation: admire the seascapes on board the yacht; basking in the warm rays of the sun on the white sand; swim in crystal clear water; engage in fishing or hunting; dive to the bottom of the sea; surf and more.
Cyprus, Protaras, Fig Tree Bay beach
What are the beaches in Cyprus
Fig Tree By Beach. The beach is considered the best in the resort of Protaras. It got its name because of its location: the beach is located near a vast fig grove.
There are also good conditions for children's recreation.
Kourion
Kourion beach. The beach is very popular among locals and guests, attracting primarily with lush greenery, warm sand and gentle caressing sea.
It is located 20 km from Limassol.
golden beach
Golden Beach. The beach is located in the Turkish part of the island. This is a great place for families with children.
Everyone can find entertainment to their liking: diving, surfing, spas, yachting.
Lara Bay Beach
Lara. This beach is preferred for lovers of peace, solitude and silence. R
The beach is located a few kilometers from Paphos.
To summarize, Cyprus is which country? This is a unique and amazing country with a rich history, reflected in cultural and architectural monuments.
Tourists from different parts of our planet come here to enjoy a magnificent beach holiday and at the same time visit historical sights: ancient amphitheaters, Gothic temples, unusual medieval fortresses, beautiful Muslim mosques, ancient monasteries and cathedrals.
