Cyprus stands as the Mediterranean’s third-largest island, a realm filled with natural splendor and rich mythological heritage. This magical island is not just famous as Aphrodite’s birthplace; it’s also scattered with relics from long ago, like Neolithic dwellings and tombs from the Bronze Age. Annually welcoming around three million visitors, it stands proudly as the globe’s fortieth go-to travel hot spot. Year after year, like clockwork, you might be one of the countless admirers flocking back to soak up its endless beauty. If you consider yourself well-versed in all things Cypriot, prepare to be intrigued by these lesser-known Cyprus facts that might just capture your wonder once more…
1 Oldest Wine
Commandaria stands out as a rich dessert wine with a history that stretches back to 2000 BC. Holding a spot in the Guinness World Records, this illustrious beverage once earned high praise from King Phillipe of France in 1223, who dubbed it the “Apostle of Wines.” The name “Commandaria” is derived from the specific region where this celebrated wine is produced.
2 Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The whole town of Paphos is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site, effectively transforming it into a vast, living museum. This remarkable town offers a unique exploration experience, with the Tombs of the Kings standing out as a key historic attraction. From its ancient winemaking legacy to the whole town of Paphos being a UNESCO site, Cyprus is a land of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
3 Cats Dominate
Cyprus is a unique island where cats outnumber the human population! This enchanting location is teeming with adorable, fluffy felines. Among its most interesting places is the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas of The Cats, situated in Akrotiri. This monastery is not only a sanctuary for hundreds of cats but also home to a handful of nuns dedicated to their care. According to local lore, these cats were initially introduced to the monastery with a noble mission – to eliminate venomous snakes threatening the island’s residents. To this day, they continue to fulfill this vital role, living harmoniously within the monastery’s walls.
4 Ayia Napa
It may come as a surprise to learn that Ayia Napa, known for its lively atmosphere, was originally a dense forest! This intriguing fact comes from the town’s name itself. “Ayia” translates to “Holy” in Greek, and “Napa” is derived from a word signifying “wooded valley.” This is because, in ancient times, the area around what is now the town was covered in forests. The name was inspired by a monastery in the town that shares the same name, highlighting the town’s rich historical and natural heritage.
While exploring the history of Cyprus or enjoying nature in Cyprus today, you can still keep in touch with the whole world. But keep in mind that you will need to use VPN servers to access some sites. For example, VeePN has 2500+ of them. This means that you will be able to unblock any site or content on them. If you’re traveling with your smartphone, finding the best VPN for Android will ensure secure and unrestricted internet access wherever you go.
5 It’s Almost Always Sunny in Cyprus
If a sun-drenched European getaway is what you’re after, look no further! Boasting an impressive 320 sunny days annually, Cyprus is the epitome of a sun lover’s paradise, complemented by a mere 40 days of rain on average each year.
6 Leonardo da Vinci Visited Lefkara Village
Nestled in tranquility, the picturesque village of Lefkara is renowned for its exquisite lace craftsmanship, a tradition that continues to thrive locally. These delicate masterpieces serve as a perfect keepsake to commemorate your visit. Legend holds that in the 15th century, Leonardo da Vinci himself traveled to Lefkara to purchase lace destined for the Milan Cathedral’s altar.
7 Cyprus Officially has the Cleanest Beaches in Europe
For more than ten years, Cyprus has maintained an impressive distinction as the location with the cleanest beaches across Europe. According to an EU report, an impressive 99.1% of the waters suitable for swimming in Cyprus are classified as being of excellent quality.
8 The World’s Oldest Perfumes Were Found in Cyprus
An additional factor making Cyprus an appealing destination for history enthusiasts is the archaeological discovery of the world’s oldest perfumes on the island. During excavations conducted between 2004 and 2005, archaeologists unearthed a factory dating back to the Bronze Age, approximately 4000 years ago, signifying the long-standing importance of fragrances in Cypriot culture.
Conclusion
Are you curious to explore the wonders of Cyprus? Consider turning your next vacation into a rejuvenating health retreat. Cyprus beckons medical tourists with its exceptional value, superior healthcare services, and serene setting. Of course, the main purpose of visiting is relaxation, unity with nature and mental rest. Cyprus has everything you need for this.
