Cyprus (Greek ??p???, Turkish Kibris, [1]) is an island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey. After Sicily and Sardinia, Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Although the island lies close to the Middle East, it is considered to be a European country and is a member of the European Union.
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As the two regions are nearly completely separate from a traveller's point of view, this article will concentrate on the southern territory governed by the Republic of Cyprus. This is not a political endorsement of claims by either side in the dispute. For travel information regarding North Cyprus, visit the Northern Cyprus article.
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- the many archaeological and antiquities sites scattered around the island, dating from the New Stone Age through to the Roman Empire
- the beautiful coastline of the island - still quite unspoilt in many places - is well worth exploring
- Nicosia, the capital as it has a wealth of history, preserved Venetian walls surrounding the city, some wonderful bars and restaurants within the old walls of the city and of course the 'green line' - the dividing line with the Turkish part of Cyprus, which cuts through the centre of Nicosia, now the only divided capital in the world apart from Jerusalem
- the Troodos mountains, rising as high as 3,000 metres, offering some beautiful trail walks and also quaint little villages such as Platres and Phini. In winter there is the chance to ski there and the ski resort is being developed
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EAT
Cypriot food bears a distinct resemblance to Greek cooking, and uses lemons and olives extensively.
- Cypriot meze (appetizers akin to Spanish tapas) are an art form, and some restaurant serve nothing but.
- Halloumi (?a????µ?) is a uniquely Cypriot cheese, made from a mix of cow's and sheep's milk. Hard and salty when raw, it mellows and softens when cooked and is hence often served grilled.
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