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North Cyprus Remembrance Day– Honouring the Fallen and Preserving Memory Date observed: 27–28 January   Each year, on the 27th and 28th of January, Northern Cyprus observes Martyrs’ Remembrance Day – a solemn tribute to those who gave their lives in defence of freedom and national identity. It is a deeply emotional time when Turkish Cypriots gather to honour fallen heroes, reflect on their shared history, and pass the values of courage and unity to future generations.   Wheth

Republic Day in Northern Cyprus Republic Day in Northern Cyprus, known in Turkish as Cumhuriyet Bayramı, takes place annually on 15 November and commemorates the proclamation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in 1983.   It is one of the most important public holidays in Northern Cyprus, observed across all districts, with ceremonies, parades and patriotic displays. ______________________________________________   ☪ Historical significance   •       On 15 Novem

Wreath-laying ceremony at the Royal British Legion Kyrenia When we think of the Royal British Legion (RBL), many instinctively recall the annual Poppy Appeal or Remembrance Sunday in the United Kingdom. What’s less well known, however, is that the RBL’s compassion and community reach extend far beyond the UK — including into Northern Cyprus, where the Kyrenia branch plays a meaningful role.   Here’s what you should know — especially if you live here or engage with the British

Traditional Stone Wall Building in North Cyprus Discover the ancient art of dry-stone walling and how it continues to shape the Cypriot landscape. 🏰 A Heritage of Strength and Beauty Traditional stone wall building is one of the most iconic forms of Cypriot craftsmanship — a skill passed down through generations. Across North Cyprus, you’ll find villages, terraces, and old farm boundaries built entirely from local limestone or sandstone, stacked carefully without the use of

Jeep Safari in North Cyprus: An Adventure Through Nature and History If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in North Cyprus, a jeep safari  is the perfect way to experience the island’s rugged beauty, hidden gems, and rich cultural history. Far from the typical tourist trail, a jeep safari takes you off-road into the heart of the Kyrenia mountain range, across wild landscapes, through remote villages, and down to secluded beaches. 🚙What to Expect on a Jeep Safari A

The Republic of Cyprus 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

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. Discover the history of Cyprus Part 9 - The British Take Control Following the Russo-Turkish War, the Ottoman Empire agreed

Ottoman Cyprus – Empire, Faith, and Coexistence Discover the history of Cyprus Part 8 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 sign

Venetian Cyprus – Fortress Island on the Edge of Empire Discover the history of Cyprus Part 7 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 monar

Lusignan Cyprus – Crusader Kings and Medieval Splendor The Lusignan Kingdom 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 establ

Byzantine Cyprus – Faith, Fortresses, and Transformation (330–1191 AD) Byzantine Cyprus 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 d

Cyprus in the Roman Empire – Legacy of an Ancient Power Cyprus Under Roman Rule 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 Act

The Classical and Hellenistic Periods (480–30 BC) 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 Cla

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

Discover the history of Vounous Cemetery 🗿 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. 🪦 Roma

Agios Sozomenos An abandoned village in North Cyprus - Sozomenos Saint Sozomenos is a little-known yet intriguing figure associated with North Cyprus , particularly in the area near Nicosia  (Lefkoşa). His memory survives primarily through the ruins of the Church of Saint Sozomenos , located near the abandoned village of the same name, Agios Sozomenos (Ayios Sozomenos) , just southeast of the modern village of Potamia . Who Was Saint Sozomenos? Saint Sozomenos is believed to

Mavi Köşk  (The Blue House ) Mavi Köşk  (The Blue House ) is one of the most intriguing and mysterious landmarks in North Cyprus , located near the village of Sadrazamköy  in the mountains above Güzelyurt . It offers a fascinating mix of history, Cold War-era intrigue, and architectural curiosity. 🏠 Blue House in North Cyprus - What is Mavi Köşk? Mavi Köşk was built in 1957  by Paolo Paolides , a Greek Cypriot lawyer who was the personal legal advisor to Archbishop Makarios

The Peace and Freedom Museum (Barış ve Özgürlük Müzesi) in Alsancak, Northern Cyprus, is a poignant historical site located exactly where Turkish forces landed during the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation.  The Peace and Freedom Museum of North Cyprus 📍 Peace and Freedom Museum of North Cyprus - Location & Access Situated just east of Yavuz Landing Beach, approximately 15 minutes drive from Girne town centre  Street Address: 86VR+PJ8 Girne 99350; open daily from 08:00–18:00   What

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is a land where history speaks through its ancient ruins, revealing stories of civilizations long past. From the majestic castles perched on hillsides to the remnants of Roman amphitheaters, the ancient ruins of TRNC harbor a hidden charm that entices historians, archaeologists, and explorers alike. As you wander through the crumbling stone structures and well-preserved sites, you'll not only discover the architectural splendor o