Cyprus in General
Geography
Cyprus is the third largest island of the Mediterranean Sea, after Sicily and Sardinia, situated in the eastern Mediterranean Basin 260 km from Libanon. It has an area of 9,251Km2 (3,571 M2). Its beutiful coastline of 648 kilometers (402 miles) is made up of golden beaches with clear blue waters. Although the resident population is around 800,000 people the island is over populated throughout the year due to the tourist inflow which reaches 2.5 million. Its location in the crossroads of Europe, Asia, Middle East and Africa as well as its overall beauty has established it as one of the most popular destinations worldwide. Along the middle crossline of the island there are two mountain ranges with the highest peak the Olympus mountain reaching 6,402ft. Situated in the center of the island is Nicosia district, the capital of Cyprus with 335,000 residence. All other four major cities are situated along the coastal lines which are known European tourist resorts.
History
It is really difficult yet unfair to attempt a brief historical reference on a very long time in history. Therefore we are urging interested readers to actively expand through appropriate historical sources. A quick start can be internet.
As a reference let's state that Cyprus rich history starts in 8500 BC with the new evidences in Neolithic era. The first settlers were the Chirokitians in 7000 BC. Early pottery work can be found in all local musems. History followed by the Chalcolithic era 4000 BC and Bronze Age 2700 BC. Thereafter, we observed a series of other settlers such as the Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians/Persians, Romans, Venetians, Ottomans and British. The most modern history of Cyprus starts in 1960 with the foundation of the Republic of Cyprus. In 1974 we witness the invasion of Cyprus by Turkish troops and as a result the northern part of the island remains illegally occupied until today.
Political System
Cyprus is an independent sovereign Republic with a presidential system of government. Since its inception the political system has been stable and progressive contributing to the well being of the island and its people. The President is heading both the State and Government. According to the constitution the executive power is excercised by the President who appoints his 11 Ministers. Legislative power according to the Constitution is exercised by the House of Representatives comprising today by 56 Representatives. The administration of justice is carried out by the Supreme Court, the Assize Court, the District Courts, the Military Court, the Rent Control Courts, the Industrial Disputes Court and Family Courts.
Infrastructure
Major infrastructure and residential development along with modern facilities, reputable schools and excellent medical services all contribute to a very high standard of living in Cyprus. The annual per capital income is about EURO 19,740. The overall cost of living averages about 1/3 to 1/2 of most parts of Europe, Japan and the USA.
A recent international poll showed Cyprus towns to have one of the lowest costs of living within a developed nation.Thanks to its modern road network, extensive port facilities and two new international airports, travel and transport in and beyond Cyprus is fast, efficient and economical.
Climate
Cyprus enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate of hot dry summers starting in mid-May and lasting until mid-September and rainy, quite mild winters from November to mid-March. Spring and autumn are effectively short
intervals in-between, characterised by smooth weather. With almost year-round clear skies and sunshine, daylight length ranges from 9.8 hours in December to 14.5 hours in June.