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Diving in North Cyprus: The Mediterranean’s Best-Kept Secret When you think of world-class diving, you might picture the Red Sea or the Maldives. But there’s a hidden gem in the Eastern Mediterranean that offers crystal-clear waters, ancient wrecks, and untouched reefs— North Cyprus . Still flying under the radar of most divers, North Cyprus is a paradise for underwater adventurers looking for warm seas, abundant marine life, and a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere. Whether you'

Fishing in North Cyprus: A Hidden Gem for Anglers When it comes to outdoor adventures in the Mediterranean, fishing in North Cyprus  is often overlooked—but it shouldn't be. With its crystal-clear waters, long stretches of coastline, and year-round fishing opportunities, this peaceful corner of the island offers one of the most authentic and rewarding fishing experiences in Europe. Whether you're a casual angler, a spearfishing enthusiast, or hoping to hook a trophy tuna on a

Boat Trips in North Cyprus: Sun, Sea & Unforgettable Adventures Imagine gliding across turquoise Mediterranean waters, the sun on your face, a cool drink in your hand, and the coastline of North Cyprus stretching into the horizon. Whether you're seeking relaxation, romance, family fun, or a touch of adventure— boat trips in North Cyprus  are the perfect escape. From half-day cruises to private charters, fishing expeditions to party boats, North Cyprus offers something for eve

Northern Cyprus is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean, offering a rich blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. With a diverse array of events and activities scheduled for the coming months, there's never been a better time to explore this beautiful region. From culinary festivals to historical reenactments, here's your guide to the most exciting happenings in Northern Cyprus. Northern Cyprus Events As the seasons change, Northern Cyprus bursts into life with a mult

On August 16, 1960, Cyprus officially became an independent republic, ending centuries of foreign rule. However, the dream of a unified and peaceful nation was quickly challenged. Internal divisions, political tension, and the involvement of foreign powers created a turbulent environment. The period between independence and 1974 is one of the most chaotic chapters in Cypriot history. Birth of the Republic The Republic of Cyprus was established under the Zurich-London Agreemen

British Rule in Cyprus – Colonial Legacy and National Awakening In 1878, Cyprus entered a new era under British administration, marking the beginning of nearly a century of colonial rule. This period transformed the island's infrastructure, legal system, and political aspirations—ultimately laying the foundations for its independence and modern identity. The British Take Control Following the Russo-Turkish War, the Ottoman Empire agreed to lease Cyprus to Britain in exchange

Ottoman Cyprus – Empire, Faith, and Coexistence When the Ottoman Empire captured Cyprus in 1571, the island transitioned from Venetian stronghold to Muslim imperial territory. This marked the longest continuous period of foreign rule in Cypriot history, spanning more than three centuries. Ottoman governance reshaped land ownership, religious life, and the ethnic makeup of the island. The Ottoman Conquest The fall of Famagusta in 1571 signaled the official start of Ottoman rul

Driving Related Fines in North Cyprus Frm 1 July 2025 the minimum wage in North Cyprus increased to 1,202 Turkish lira per month (gross) and 44,546 lira (net). Most penalties for traffic violations are calculated as a precentage of the minimum wage so those fines also increased. The offences and fines are now as follows: Offence Fine Using a vehicle for unauthorized or demo purposes ₺2,610.10 Not carrying driver’s license ₺2,610.10 Speeding up to 20 km/h ₺5,220.20 Dangerous p

Venetian Cyprus – Fortress Island on the Edge of Empire In 1489, the Republic of Venice assumed control of Cyprus, ending the Lusignan monarchy and ushering in a final era of Western dominance before the Ottoman conquest. The Venetian period was marked by military fortification, economic restructuring, and growing anxiety over the looming threat from the expanding Ottoman Empire. Transition of Power Queen Catherine Cornaro, the last monarch of Cyprus and a Venetian by birth,

Minimum Wage Increased by 17.79% in North Cyprus The Minimum Wage in North Cyprus is set by the Minimum Wage Determination Commission and usually reviews the minimum wage twice a year. At its most recent meeting the minimum wage was increased 17.79%, which is in line with the most recently announced subsistence level. The new minimum wage is now: Monthly 51,202 Weekly 11815.84 Daily 2363.16 Hourly 295.39

Lusignan Cyprus – Crusader Kings and Medieval Splendor Following its capture by Richard the Lionheart in 1191 during the Third Crusade, Cyprus was sold to the Knights Templar and then transferred to Guy de Lusignan, a French noble and former king of Jerusalem. Thus began the Lusignan Kingdom, a period of feudal rule, Gothic cathedrals, and cross-cultural interaction lasting nearly 300 years. Establishment of the Lusignan Dynasty The Lusignan family established a Latin-style f

Byzantine Cyprus – Faith, Fortresses, and Transformation (330–1191 AD) With the division of the Roman Empire in 330 AD, Cyprus became part of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. This transition marked a new era defined by Christian dominance, administrative reform, and resilience through invasions and natural disasters. Early Christianisation and Ecclesiastical Autonomy Christianity became the dominant religion in Cyprus by the 4th century. The island was declared an autoce

Cyprus in the Roman Empire – Legacy of an Ancient Power After centuries of Hellenistic influence, Cyprus underwent another transformative era when it was annexed by Rome in 30 BC. This period marked over three centuries of peace, prosperity, and infrastructural development under the vast and powerful Roman Empire. Roman Annexation and Governance Cyprus officially became a Roman province after the defeat of Cleopatra and Mark Antony at the Battle of Actium. Augustus, Rome’s fi

The Classical and Hellenistic Periods (480–30 BC) Cyprus, positioned at the crossroads of great empires, saw profound transformation during the Classical and Hellenistic periods. These centuries were marked by intense cultural flourishing, philosophical exchanges, and increasing imperial entanglements that set the tone for the island’s integration into the wider Mediterranean world. Greek Influence and City-Kingdoms By the Classical period (480–323 BC), Cyprus was heavily inf

The Age of Copper and Bronze Cyprus's strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean made it a vital crossroads of ancient civilizations. After its earliest prehistoric period, the island entered a transformative era marked by technological advances, trade, and cultural exchange—ushering in the Chalcolithic (Copper Age) and Bronze Age. The Chalcolithic Period (c. 3900–2500 BCE) The transition from stone to metal began around 3900 BCE, as Cypriots started using copper for too

🏺 Prehistoric Cyprus: The Island’s Earliest Inhabitants Introduction. Long before castles, empires, and religious monuments, Cyprus was already home to humans. The island’s rich and fascinating prehistory stretches back to the 9th millennium BCE , placing it among the earliest inhabited regions in the Eastern Mediterranean. This article explores how the first settlers arrived, how they lived, and what traces of their world still remain. 🌍 The First Settlers: Cyprus in the N

If you're visiting or relocating to Northern Cyprus, one of the first practical questions you'll ask is: Where should I exchange my money for the best rate? Here’s everything you need to know to make sure you’re getting good value on currency exchange . 💱 What Currency Is Used in Northern Cyprus? The official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY) .However, euros, pounds, and US dollars  are widely accepted in tourist areas, property markets, and by many businesses. Still, for d

Cyprus is an island steeped in history, culture, and exquisite flavors that come together to create a unique culinary experience. With Mediterranean influences blended with Middle Eastern and European touches, Cypriot cuisine offers a tasty journey for food lovers. In this blog post, we will dive into the soul of Cypriot cuisine, showcasing its traditional dishes, culinary techniques, and cultural significance. Cypriot Cuisine At the heart of Cypriot cuisine lies a rich herit

One of the biggest concerns for travelers and expats alike is access to healthcare . If you're wondering whether you’ll find good English-speaking doctors  in Northern Cyprus, the answer is a reassuring yes . 👩‍⚕️ Healthcare in Northern Cyprus: What to Expect Northern Cyprus offers a mix of private and public healthcare services , with private clinics and hospitals often providing faster, more personalized care. Many doctors are trained in Turkey, the UK, or Europe , and a g

Discover the history of Vounous Cemetery 🗿 History & Excavations Looting & rescue digs  (1931–32): Local police seized looted Red‑Polished pottery sold in Kyrenia, prompting initial excavations by Porphyrios Dikaios (Cyprus Museum), who unearthed around 48 graves. Further excavations  (1933, 1937–38): Claude Schaeffer of the French National Museum and James R. Stewart (British School at Athens) continued the work, uncovering tombs up to around 164. 🪦 Roman Rock‑Cut Tombs Th