CYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION

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yprus may be a small country, but it’s a large island - the third largestin the Mediterranean. And it’s an

island with a big heart - an island that givesits visitors a genuine welcome and treatsthem as friends.

With its spectacular scenery and enviableclimate, it’s no wonder that Aphrodite chosethe island as her playground, and sincethen, mere mortals have been discoveringthis ‘land fit for Gods’ for themselves.

Cyprus is an island of beauty and a countryof contrasts. Cool, pine-clad mountains area complete scene-change after golden sun-kissed beaches; tranquil, timeless villagesare in striking contrast to moderncosmopolitan towns; luxurious beachsidehotels can be exchanged for large areas ofnatural, unspoilt countryside; yet in Cyprusall distances are easily manageable, mostlyon modern roads and highways - with asecondary route or two for the moreadventurous.Most important of all, the island offerspeace of mind. At a time when holidays

are clouded by safety consciousness, afeeling of security prevails everywheresince the crime level is so low as to bepractically non-existent.

Cyprus

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ew countries can trace the course oftheir history over 10.000 years, but

in approximately 8.000 B.C. theisland of Cyprus was already inhabitedand going through its Neolithic Age. Ofall the momentous events that were tosweep the country through the next fewthousand years, one of the most crucialwas the discovery of copper - or Kuprumin Latin - the mineral which took its name from “Kypros”, the Greek name ofCyprus, and generated untold wealth.The island’s strategic position, its copperdeposits and its timber attracted the firstGreeks who came to the island over 3.000years ago at the end of the Trojan wars.They settled down bringing in with themand establishing the Greek identity,language and civilisation. Over thecenturies Cyprus came under the sway ofvarious rulers including the Egyptians,Assyrians, Persians, the successors toAlexander the Great and the Romans,before Cyprus became part of theByzantine Empire. Later came theCrusaders, the Frankish Lusignans andVenetians, Ottomans and British. Cyprus

won its independence in 1960, for the firsttime in 3.500 years, but the Greek identity of language and culture has beenretained. In July 1974 Turkey invadedCyprus and since then 37% of the islandin the north is being illegally occupied byTurkish troops who acted in violation ofall principles governing internationalrelations.

The Test of Time

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rom the topmost point of Mount Olympos to the coasts and sweepingplains, Cyprus is nature’s island.

Many exquisite wild flowers grow insplendid profusion in springtime. Trees,shrubs and plants luxuriate in theMediterranean sunshine all year round.Bright bougainvillaea blazes vividly againstwhite walls, reflecting its splendour in thecrystal clear waters.

Cyprus is also prized for its bird life, andthe migratory birds that use the countryas a stopover are eagerly awaited betweenseasons.

Due to the wonderful climate and varietyof scenery, the island offers endlessopportunities for nature lovers andoutdoor sports fans. Activities such asangling, mountain-biking, hiking, gliding,golf, seasports and yachting are but a fewof the special activity holidays that theisland offers.

With so many possibilities, Cyprus is a birdwatcher’s paradise... an archaeologist’s heaven... a photographer’s dream ...

Nature’s Gifts

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t is probably no surprise with a history so long, that Cyprus is remarkably rich in culture. Its

importance has been honoured byUNESCO which has included ten of theisland’s Byzantine mountain churchesand the entire town of Kato Pafos,Palaepafos and Choirokoitia in its WorldCultural Heritage List.

Wherever you tread in Cyprus you arereminded of a strong tradition that iskept alive from generation to generationthrough the many events which arecelebrated.

Hardly a week goes by in Cyprus withouta celebration of some sort, whether it bea colourful festival or homage to a sainton one of the numerous ‘name’ days.The ‘Panigiri’, a traditional open-air fete,takes place mainly in the villages on theoccassion of a saint’s name day.

Easter, the most important GreekOrthodox religious event, is celebratedwith solemnity, joy and hope.

Carnival is one of the best known Cypriotcelebrations, along with ‘Anthestiria’,theSpring Flower festival, and ‘Kataklysmos’- the festival of the Flood - whichcoincides with Pentecost. Throughoutthe year there are also exhibitions,concerts, drama and folk festivals.Cypriot culture is also reflected in therich folk art of the island. Age-old crafts,handed down from one generation toanother, are faithfully carried on to thisday by skilful hands and nimble fingers,fashioning handicrafts, both decorativeand useful, that would grace any home.

The Greek Orthodox Church has beenthe mainstay of religion in Cyprus sincethe 1st century A.D., and in a society

where the church continues to play animportant role, old style values have beenmaintained and the family unit retainsclose-knit qualities that keep colourfulcustoms alive, and underline thewarmhearted character of Cyprus.

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Colourful Culture

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ithout a doubt, the 1000 year old capital should be on every visitor’s agenda. It lies roughly in the centre

of the island, within easy reach of the othertowns and a day in Lefkosia will be a daywell spent.

The old walled city is unique and definitelythe place to head for first. Encircled bystrong fortress walls built by the Venetiansin the 16th century, the enchanting old cityis scattered with buildings and monumentsof historical interest as well as little shops,cafés and tavernas. The Lefkosia JewelleryMuseum, the Museum of the History ofCypriot Coinage and the Municipal ArtsCentre, are all well worth a visit. The‘Leventis’ Municipal Museum of Lefkosia,with an imaginative presentation of thecapital’s history, was awarded the title ‘1991European Museum of the Year’.

To walk through the old city is to stepbackwards in time. Narrow streets and oldhouses with ornate balconies jut fromweatherbeaten sandstone walls, andcraftsmen in small workshops practise trades

unchanged for centuries. ‘Laïki Geitonia’ - Folk Neighbourhood - is a pedestriansection which has been carefully renovatedto evoke the atmosphere of past days. Thetwo main streets of old Lefkosia, Lidra andOnasagorou, are lined with shops of everytype, and both streets are pedestrian - only.

Not to be missed, is the unique CyprusMuseum, housing the island’s mostimportant collection of Cypriot antiquitiesand treasures from the Neolithic Age to theRoman Period. In contrast to these ancientfinds is the State Collection ofContemporary Art, and on the other sideof town, just off the main Lemesos road, isthe Cyprus Handicraft Centre.

Another award winner is thecity’s renovated ‘Pyli Ammochostou’- Famagusta Gate - one of theoriginal entrances to the old city,which won the Europa Nostraaward for its restoration. Many oldchurches are to be found in thispart of town, and other places of interestare the Folk Art and Byzantine Museums,the Archbishopric, the Cathedralof Agios Ioannis with its beautifulfrescoes, the National StruggleMuseum and the intriguing houseof Chatzigeorgakis Kornesios - afine example of 18th centuryarchitecture - which houses theEthnological Museum.

Not far from these monuments isthe infamous ‘Green Line’ thatdivides the Republic from the illegallyoccupied area to the north. It has been inexistence since 1974 when Turkish troopsinvaded the island and claimed 37% ofnorthern Cyprus as a breakaway pseudo-

state that has since been recognised by no

nation, other than Turkey.

The modern city that has developed outsidethe walls is a cosmopolitancentre of business and culture. Lefkosia isregarded as the shopping heart of Cyprus,with a variety of restaurants, discos andbars.

Within easy reach of the capital are suchhistoric gems as the 12th century paintedchurches of Asinou and Agioi Apostoloi atPera Chorio Nisou, the regal tombs atTamassos, the ancient city-kingdom ofIdalion and the enchanting villages ofFikardou and Kakopetria.

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Lefkosia (Nicosia) One of a Kind

Cyprus Mediaeval Museum, theDistrict Archaeological Museum, theFolk Art Museum, the LemesosMunicipal Art Gallery, and theMunicipal Gardens.

Also in the vicinity are the placidGermasogeia dam, frequented by keenanglers, and the Salt Lake at Akrotiri,home of thousands of migrating birds inwinter, and a stopover point formillions more as they wend theirway to different climes in springand autumn. In nearby foothills,delightful villages continue thegentle pace of rural life.

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ombining its roles as the second largest city, the island’s main port, the centre of the wine industry and

a bustling holiday resort, Lemesos emergesas a spirited and cosmopolitan seasidetown.Lemesos is a lively town largely due tothe character of Lemesolians, a fun-lovinglot. No wonder it holds the island’s twotop festivals, the pre-lenten Carnival withfancy dress balls, parades and festivitiesand the Wine Festival in September, awine extravaganza where wine flows freelyfor everyone to enjoy, courtesy of the localwineries.

Lemesos emerged out of two of the mostimportant ancient city-kingdoms,Amathous, to the east of the town, andKourion to the west, both of which arebeing extensively excavated. Themagnificent setting of the ancient KourionTheatre is used for summer concerts andtheatrical productions.

In the Middle Ages, Lemesos hosted themarriage of Richard the Lionheart withBerengaria of Navarre whom he crownedQueen of England. Thereafter the

Crusaders made their headquarters at theSquare Keep west of the city, known asKolossi Mediaeval Castle, where theyfostered the making of wines, particularlythe sweet dessert wine ‘Commandaria’ -the oldest named wine in the world.

Today Lemesos is a resort with a ten milecoastline, a busy shopping centre,countless tavernas and restaurants and anight life to suit tastes ranging frommodest to sophisticated.

A visit to the places of interest wouldinclude Lemesos Castle, which houses The

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Lemesos(Limassol) Heart Of The Vine Country

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arnaka seafront is vaguely reminiscentof the Continental promenade, withits line of mature palms and its

languid air of sleepy charm. Cafes andtavernas line the area near the sea, makingthis a popular spot with visitors andCypriots alike during the long summer.Nearby is the Marina, frequented byyachtsmen from all over the world.At the western end of the promenade isthe town’s 17th century fort, which nowhouses the Larnaka Mediaeval Museum.

As the home of the island’s maininternational airport, Larnaka offers manyvisitors their first taste of Cyprus. One ofthe first sights is the beautiful salt lake,home in the cooler months to colonies ofgraceful flamingos and other migratorybirds. Beside the lake, in a tranquil settingcrowned by lush palms, is the Hala SultanTekesi, built to the memory of ProphetMohammed’s aunt.

Larnaka’s links with Christianity go backto the very beginning, for the town’s firstbishop was none other than Agios Lazaros,

who chose to live his ‘second life’ thereafter Jesus had raised him from the dead.A church built in his name exists on thespot where his remains where said to befound.

Larnaka’s District Archaeological Museumand the Pierides Foundation Museumexhibit particularly interesting antiquities.The town’s marble bust of Zeno, after thephilosopher who founded the famous StoicSchool, bears testimony to another famousson. Also of interest is the ancient city-kingdom of Kition established by MyceneanGreeks in the 13th cent. B.C., the Churchof Agia Faneromeni, built over a rock cavedating from the 8th century B.C. and the18th century aqueduct on the outskirts oftown.

Larnaka Home Of Agios Lazaros

Stavrovouni, one of the oldest andmost dramatically sited monasteriesin Cyprus, founded by SaintHelena, is within reach of Larnaka.Pearched atop a mountain it hasstunning views in all directions. Inaccordance with the strict monastictradition observed by this particularorder, women are not allowed insideStavrovouni Monastery.

Again within striking distance ofLarnaka, is the Church of PanagiaAngeloktisti which houses the 6thcentury lifesize Byzantine mosaicof the Virgin Mary - one of thefinest in the world from this period. A visit to the village of Lefkara,famed for the lace-like embroideryknown as ‘Lefkaritika’ that was said tocaptivate Leonardo da Vinci, is also atreat. Further south, is the remarkablesite of Choirokoitia, included in theUnesco World Heritage List, whereexcavations have yielded one of the mostimportant Neolithic settlements foundanywhere in the world.

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LEFKOSIA

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PAFOS

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AGIA NAPA

POLIS

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DISTANCE CHART

PyrgosPomos

Polis

KaravostasiCape Arnaoutis

Baths ofAphrodite

Neon Chorion

Drouseia

Lyso

Kathikas

LasaFyti

CedarValley

Gerakies

Pano Panagia

PanagiaChrysorrogiatissaStroumpi

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Lempa

Agios Nikolaos

Mandria

KedaresArsos

Omodos

VasaVouni

Trooditissa

Platres

Laneia

Lofou

Koilani

Agros

Kyperounta

Panagiatou Araka

Panagiatis Podithou

Agios IoannisLampadistis

Pedoulas

Arch.Michael

Agios NikolaosKakopetria

Nikitari

Panagia Forviotissa(Asinou)

Stavros touAgiasmati

Palaichori

Gourri

MachairasKornos

Nisou

LatsiaDeftera

Klirou

Peristerona

Stavrovouni

Lymbia

Marina

Kition

Mazotos

Kofinou

Liopetri

Xylofagou

Cape Pyla

Deryneia

Paralimni

Agia NapaProtaras

Cape Gkreko

Larnaka International Airport

Lefkonoiko

Trikomo

Cape Elaia

Agios Amvrosios

Agios EpiktitosKaravas

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Petra tou Romiou

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Zygi

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Sanctuary ofApollon Ylatis

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many years now for its specialdelight ‘loukoumi’.

Agios Neofytos Monastery, famousfor its ‘Encleistra’, Enclosure,carved out of the mountain by thehermit himself, boasts some of thefinest Byzantine frescoes of the12th and 15th centuries. ChrysorrogiatissaMonastery makes its own range ofwines using homegrown grapes. Asmall museum dedicated toArchbishop Makarios, firstpresident of Cyprus, is found atPano Panagia. From here it is arewarding drive to the majesticCedar Valley, home of theindigenous Cyprus horned sheep,the moufflon.

Lempa village can be singled out as onewith particular historic significance. In itspretty setting near the sea, Lempa’s linkwith prehistory is the site of a chalcolithicsettlement. Today the faithfulreconstruction of several dwellings, givesan insight into chalcolithic life on the

island.Further north lies the resort-town of Polis,overlooking the beautiful Chrysochou Baywith its charming fishing refuge of Latsi.The relatively unspoilt state of thecountryside and villages make the area areal delight for the walker and naturalist.

The low-lying scenery around Pafos, muchof it cultivated with banana plantationsand backed by the gentle foothills of thewestern Troodos range, has an attractivelyopen quality to it. This is the gateway tothe Peninsula of Akamas, a naturalwilderness of incredible beauty withbreathtaking gorges, spectacular coastlinesand enjoyable nature trails.

apital of the west and positively teeming with history is Pafos, site of the island’s second international

airport. The resort town has as its focalpoint a charming fishing harbour by PafosFort, lined with open-air cafés and tavernasthat serve a tempting menu of the day’scatch.

It was on Pafos shoreline that themythological Goddess Aphrodite was borna legend that spawned a massive wave ofcult worship from neighbouring countriesthat lasted several centuries. The large rockthat juts from the sea is known as ‘Petra touRomiou’ - The Venus Rock - while the Bathsof Aphrodite at Polis also echoes herapparent penchant for the island. AtPalaepafos, Kouklia lie the remains of theGoddess’ earliest Sanctuary.

Another ‘first’ for Pafos was its earlyrecognition of Christianity. While underRoman rule in 45 A.D., it was here thatSaint Paul converted the first ruler to thefaith.

The legacy from its remarkable history addsup to nothing less than an open museum,so much so that UNESCO simply addedthe whole town to its World CulturalHeritage List. Among the treasuresunearthed, are the remarkable mosaics inthe Houses of Dionysos, Theseus and Aion,beautifully preserved after 16 centuriesunder the soil. Then there are themysterious vaults and caves, the Tombs ofthe Kings, the Pillar to which Saint Paulwas allegedly tied and whipped, the ancientOdeon Theatre and other places of interestincluding the Byzantine Museum and theDistrict Archaeological Museum.

Geroskipou with its remarkable five-domedByzantine church of Agia Paraskevi, and itsFolk Art Museum is a village known for

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Pafos Playground Of The Gods

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ith its superb golden sandy beaches,this area has become a big draw for sunseekers. But this part of the island

traditionally remains the market gardenof Cyprus, with the well-known Cypruspotato being the prominent crop.

Agia Napa, once a small fishing village,boasts a superb Venetian period decoratedmonastery with a central octagonalfountain. It lends character and substanceto a village that’s better known toholidaymakers for its colourful shops,tavernas, discos and bars. A small MarineLife Museum presents exhibits of past andpresent marine fauna. The focal point ofthe resort is the small harbour,where the tavernas specialise in fresh fishharvested by the colourful fishing vessels.

Life in the south eastern corner mostlyrevolves around the sea, and water sportsof all kinds are readily enjoyed - fromscuba diving to paragliding.

Protaras has built up a deserving

reputation for its windmills and gloriousbeaches. The small, white-washed town ofParalimni, slightly inland, has a numberof open-air, unspoilt tavernas known fortheir delicious local cuisine.

Cape Gkreko, on the very tip, has its ownshare of beaches and coves. With itscontrasting rugged countryside, thedramatic fiery glow of sunsets from thisspot have to be seen to be believed.Small churches dating from the 13th and16th centuries are found in Sotira and innearby villages. The skilful craft of basket- making still carries on at Liopetri. Thefishing shelter at Potamos Liopetriou, justeast of the village of Xylofagou, is aphotogenic inlet where fishermen mend

their nets by day, before settingsail in the evening to farm the sea.W

Ammochostos Area (Famagusta) The Golden Beaches

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othing could be more dramatically different from Mediterranean beachlife, than the impressive mountain

range that stretches across the centre ofCyprus and reaches up to 1.952 metres atChionistra, the highest point of MountOlympos. Admiring panoramic vistas andbreathing the cool, pine-scented air makesa heady change from the coasts and plainswhich are only a relatively short drive away.

There’s plenty to see in these mountains.Ten of the many Byzantine churches areincluded in the UNESCO World HeritageList for the exquisite art depicted in theiricons, frescoes and architecture. Moufflonhave been protected for a number of yearsin a huge natural reserve in the magnificentCedar Valley, and nowadays these timidcreatures can often be seen by visitors.

There are scenic walks to take, a greatvariety of interesting birds and flora to beseen, waterfalls and special picnic sites, andabove all, there are villages of immeasurablecharm to wander round, or simply to dally

in and observe the unhurried pace of rusticcountry life. The mountain villages areabsolutely charming and the peoplefriendly and hospitable. Each village has aspecial crop, craft or product for which itis known - fruits such as cherries, applesor peaches, sweet specialities like soujoukoand palouze, wines, zivania - a highlyalcoholic vine by-product, rosewater,pottery ... the list is endless.

A stay in the mountains is definitelyrecommended. There you will enjoy themorning mist on the mountain peaks, coolair and breathtaking views that makesstaying at one of the ‘hillside’ hotels awelcome break.

The higher slopes are throngedwith sports enthusiaststhroughout the year, so much forskiing as for hiking along thenature trails, which have clearlymarked environmental featuresof interest.

A number of interesting monasteries arescattered in the Troodos range.The largest and most famous isKykko Monastery, with a goldenicon of the Virgin Mary, allegedlypainted by Saint Luke. Othermonasteries worth visiting areMachairas and Trooditissa withits distinctive steeply sloped roof.

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Majestic Troodos

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art and parcel of any holiday is thequestion of what to take home. Leather is very good value. The shoe

shops stock up-to-date styles at veryreasonable prices. Handbags, suitcasesand jackets are a good bargain. Shoesand jackets, as well as mens suits andshirts, can be made-to-measure within aweek or so.

Handicrafts abound on every shoppingstreet. A good spot to view them is theCyprus Handicraft Centre in Lefkosia,with retail shops in every town. Smallitems of the distinctive, traditional potterymake good gifts, and so does Cypruscopperware and filigree silver. Alwayspopular is the beautiful ‘Lefkaritika’ or‘Lefkara Lace’. Folkweave, needle andcrochet work, woodwork and basketwareare a few more of the things visitors liketo take home with them, not to mentionCyprus brandy which can be bought bythe demijohn, Commandaria and evenhalloumi - the Cyprus cheese.

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Shopping Opportunities

T here are many fine hotels from largeand luxurious to small and simple -from the grandeur of the

international chain to the convenience ofhotel apartments with self-catering facilitiesas well as traditional houses in remotevillages. There are youth hostels too, andcamping sites with all the necessaryfacilities. All share the island’s charm ofwelcoming smiles and good, friendlyservice.

Conferences and IncentivesCyprus continues to grow as a seriousconference and incentive destination, andmany hotels have now responded to thisdemand with excellent conference roomsand the most modern facilities forbusinessmen. Their staff are well trainedto cater for the needs of business groups,while imaginative local travel agents haveperfected the art of surprising incentivevisitors with outings that range from theunusual to the spectacular. In Lefkosiayou will find one of the most sophisticatedConference Centres in the EasternMediterranean which accommodates over1.000 delegates.

Where To Stay

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Useful information

The Cyprus Tourism Organisation(Head Office)Postal addressP.O. Box 24535, CY-1390 Lefkosia (Nicosia)Tel: + 357-22 69 11 00Telefax: + 357-22 33 16 44E-mail: cytour@cto.org.cyWebsite: www.visitcyprus.org.cy

Tourist InformationOffices

For personal and telephone enquiries only.There are CTO offices in every town. Theyopen every morning except Sundays andon Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Fridayafternoons.

Lefkosia (Nicosia)Aristokyprou 11Laïki Geitonia (East of Plateia Eleftherias)CY-1011 Lefkosia,Tel: 22 67 42 64

Lemesos (Limassol)a) Odos Spyrou Araouzou 115 A’CY-3036 Lemesos, Tel: 25 36 27 56b) Odos Georgiou A’ 22CY-4047 LemesosPotamos tis Germasogeias(eastern entrance of Dasoudi beach)Tel: 25 32 32 11c) Lemesos HarbourService to all passenger boats.Tel: 25 57 18 68

Larnakaa) Plateia Vasileos PavlouCY-6023 Larnaka,Tel: 24 65 43 22b) Larnaka International AirportCY-7130 Larnaka,Tel. 24 64 35 76

Pafosa) Gladstonos 3CY-8046 Pafos,Tel: 26 93 28 41

b) Pafos International AirportCY-8320 Pafos, Tel: 26 42 31 61 (Service to all flights)

PolisVasileos Stasioikou A’ 2CY-8820, Polis ChrysochousTel: 26 32 24 68

Paralimni - ProtarasLeoforos Protara - Kavo Gkreko 356CY 5296 Protaras - ParalimniTel: 23 83 28 65

Agia NapaLeoforos Kryou Nerou 12CY-5330 Agia Napa,Tel: 23 72 17 96

PlatresCY-4820 Platres, Tel: 25 42 13 16

You can obtain the publications of the CyprusTourism Organization free of charge from itsInformation Offices all over Cyprus.

Entry To The IslandThere are two international airports in Cyprus,at Larnaka and Pafos.

The two main ports are in Lemesos andLarnaka.Two marinas serve yachtsmen’s needs, one inLarnaka, managed by the CTO, and a privately-run concern in Lemesos.Cyprus Airways is the island’s national carrier.Around 37 airlines connect Cyprus directlywith most European and Middle-East countries,which provide on going services to anywherein the world.Visas: No visas are required for entry intoCyprus by nationals of most Europeancountries. Nationals of other countries shouldcontact the nearest Consulate of the Republicof Cyprus, or if none, the nearest BritishConsulate.Vaccinations: Not required.There is no limit on bringing in cheques,travellers cheques and other negotiableinstruments. Foreign exchange in excess ofthe equivalent of US$ 1000 should be declaredat Customs.

here’s no getting away from it, cuisine is one of the most importantcriteria for determining a good

holiday, and in this respect Cyprus is notlikely to be found lacking. Apart fromthe fact that the standard of freshnessand hygiene is high, visitors are usuallyvery taken with Cypriot food and thefriendly service that goes with it.

There is a wide range of cuisine, withhotels and smart restaurants tending toserve international fare, and a choice ofspeciality restaurants all over the island.Fish tavernas are dotted all along thecoastline, but the traditional Cypriot mealis the ‘meze’ - which really means amixture. It consists of many dishes, allvying for space on your table, includingdelicious dips, moussaka, tavvas,koupepia (stuffed vine leaves), etc, allaccompanied by locally brewed Cyprusbeer, or one of the island’s excellentwines.

Cyprus night life caters for all tastes too.A number of tavernas serve-up traditional

dancing along with the meze, and someof the impressive discos rival any inEurope. Nightclubs are also plentiful andmost hotels have resident bands.

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The Good Things In Life

JAPANCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONPalais France Bldg, 7291–6–1 JINGUMAE, SHIBUYA–KU,Tokyo 150 - 0001Tel. (03)–34 97–93 29, Fax: (03)–34 05–01 05

ISRAELCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONTop Tower-14th floor, Dizengoff Centre50 Dizengoff Str., - Tel-Aviv 64332Tel. 00-972-3-52 57 442, Fax: 00-972-3-52 57 443E-mail: cto@netvision.net.il

RUSSIACYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONDmitria Ulianova Str. 16,House 2, Apt. 125Moscow, 117292Tel.(095) 124-00.61, Fax: (095) 124–33.97E-mail: ctorus@dol.ru

HUNGARYCIPRUSI IDEGENFORGALMI HIVATALH-1051 BudapestDorottya Str. 3. III floorTel. 00-36-1-266 6044, Fax: 00-36-1-266 6043E-mail: ciprusinfo@axelero.hu

POLANDCYPRYJSKA ORGANIZACJA TURYSTYCZNAPlac Dabrowskiego 1, Apt. 31100-057 WarszawaTel. + 48 22-827 90 36, Fax: + 48 22-827 90 34E-mail: cto.office@tele2.pl

CZECH REPUBLICKYPERSKÁ ORGANIZACE CESTOVNÍHORUCHUBudečská 36120 00 Praha 2Tel. 00 420-222 -253 097Fax: 00 420-222 -251 639E-mail: cto.prague@volny.cz

REPUBLIC OF IRELANDCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION71 Lower Leeson St, Dublin 2Tel. 00 353-1-66 29 269Fax: 00 353-1-67 63 099E-mail: cyprustourism@eircom.net

UNITED KINGDOMCYPRUS TOURIST OFFICE17, Hanover Street London W1S 1YPTel.: 0207 569 8800, Fax: 0207 499 4935E-mail: informationcto@btconnect.com

GERMANYFREMDENVERKEHRSZENTRALE ZYPERNAn der Hauptwache 7 - 60313 FrankfurtTel.: (069) 25 1919, Fax: (069) 25 0288E-mail: CTO_FRA@t–online.de

SWITZERLANDFREMDENVERKEHRSZENTRALE ZYPERNGottfried Keller – Strasse 7, 8001 ZurichTel. (01) 262 3303, Fax: (01) 251 2417Geneva: Tel: (022) 741 33 03 (diverted to Zurich)E-mail: ctozurich@bluewin.ch

FRANCEOFFICE DU TOURISME DE CHYPRE15, Rue de la Paix, 75002 ParisTel. 01. 42.61.42.49, Fax: 01. 42.61.65.13E-mail: cto.chypre.paris@wanadoo.fr

SWEDENCYPRIOTISKA STATENS TURISTBYRÅNorrlandsgatan 20, 111 43 StockholmTel. (08) 10 50 25, Fax: (08) 10 64 14Postal Address: P.O.Box 7050103 86 StockholmE-mail: info@ctosweden.org

AUSTRIAZYPERN TOURISMUSParkring 20, A–1010 WienTel. (01) 513 18 70, Fax: (01) 513 18 72E-mail: zyperntourism@aon.at

GREECECYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONVoukourestiou Str. 38, Kolonaki, Athens 10673Tel. (210) 36 10 178, (210) 36 10 057Fax: (210) 36 44 798E-mail: cto–athens@ath.forthnet.gr

ITALYENTE NAZIONALE PER IL TURISMO DICIPROVia Santa Sofia 6, 20122 MilanoTel. 02 58 30 33 28, 02 58 31 98 35,Fax: 02 58 30 33 75E-mail: info@turismocipro.it

UNITED STATESCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANIZATION13 East 40th Str. New York, NY 10016Tel. (00 1212) 683–5280, Fax: (00 1212) 683–5282E-mail: gocyprus@aol.com

BELGIUMOFFICE DU TOURISME DE CHYPREDIENST VOOR TOERISME VAN CYPRUSRue De Crayerstraat 2B-1000 Bruxelles/BrusselTel. 02/735.06.21, Fax: 02/735.66.07E-mail: cyprus@skynet.be

THE NETHERLANDSCYPRUS VERKEERSBUREAUPrinsengracht 600, 1017 KS AmsterdamTel. (020) 624 4358, Fax: (020) 638 3369E-mail: cyprus.sun@wxs.nl

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General InformationEnglish is the second language and is widely spoken.A greater knowledge of French and German isincreasingly noticeable.The currency of the Republic is the Cyprus Pound(CYí) which is divided into 100 cents. Notes areissued in í20, í10, í5 and í1 denominations.Banks in Cyprus open for the public from 08:30to 12:30 midday. Automatic Exchange Machinesoperate on a 24-hour basis and most currenciesand denominations are accepted.Certain banks in tourist areas open during theafternoon.The voltage on the island is 240. Socket outlets areof flat 3 pin-type.All types of medication are available in well stockedpharmacies all over Cyprus.Telephone: Cyprus automatic telephone diallingsystem reaches 206 countries. Telecards can bepurchased from Post Offices, kiosks and souvenirshops.It is forbidden to remove antiquities from thebottom of the sea, or to take any antiquities out ofCyprus without a special export licence.Visitors should respect ecclesiastical tradition andavoid wearing shorts and sleeveless garments inchurches and monasteries.Public holidays: January 1, 6, March 25, April 1,May 1, August 15, October 1, 28, December 24,25, 26. There are another four public holidayswhose dates are variable. These are: Green Monday(50 days before the Greek Orthodox Easter), GoodFriday and Easter Monday (Greek OrthodoxEaster) and Pentecost.Short cruises to the Greek islands, Egypt, Lebanonand the Holy Land can be taken on one of themany comfortable cruise ships which offer fullboard accommodation and entertainment at veryreasonable prices.

Shopping HoursIn towns, shops may remain open up to 19:00hrsduring the winter period (November-March) andup to 20:30 hrs during the summer period (April- October). As from the 15th of June till the 31stof August shops in town close between 14:00-17:00hrs for the summer afternoon break.Shops are closed all day Sunday and on Wednesdayand Saturday afternoons.

ClimateThe climate is equable, with an abundance ofsunny days throughout the year.The average daytime temperature from June toSeptember is 32 degrees CÆ, from December toFebruary 16 degrees CÆ and from March to May,and October to November, 25 degrees CÆ.Very cool, cotton clothes are recommended forthe hot summer months. Jackets and light sweatersmay be required for the eveningsduring May andJune, September and October, and warm clothesare worn during the winter months.

Getting Around The IslandDriving is on the left hand side of the road.Distances between towns are not lengthy.The transurban service-taxis are shared taxis,connecting (during daytime) the main towns ofLefkosia, Lemesos, Larnaka and Pafos, and veryreasonably priced.There are many car rental companies in Cyprus,and the top international names are allrepresented. Petrol stations in all seaside areasand major towns are equipped with automaticpumps, accepting bank notes and operating on a24-hour basis. On Sundays and Public Holidays,petrol stations in rural areas may open.A number of experienced tourist companiesorganise efficiently run tours, in modernairconditioned coaches, with multilingual guides.Buses connect the main towns of Cyprus, andthere is a yellow bus service run by the Municipalitywithin the old city of Lefkosia.Yacht charter is available in Lemesos and Larnaka,with or without crew.

Important noteAccording to Cypriot Law, the importation,possession and use of Narcotic Drugs andPsychotropic Substances, is strictly prohibited.

Web InformationCyprus Online: www.visitcyprus.org.cyThe Official Website of the Cyprus TourismOrganisation provides comprehensive informationon the major attractions of Cyprus, complete withmaps, updated calendar of events, detailed hotelguide, downloadable photos, travel planner tohelp you organise a trip to Cyprus and suggesteditineraries. You will also find lists of tour operatorsselling Cyprus, information on conferences andincentives, and a wealth of useful information.

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1. Agia Napa2. Apollo Ylatis Sanctuary3. Kolossi - Medieval Castle, Lemesos4. Tenta - Neolithic Settlement, Larnaka5. Chatzigeorgakis Kornesios, Lefkosia6. Akamas7. Troodos8. “Protaras Beach”- painting by late Telemachos Kanthos ( 1910-1993)9. Ethnographic Museum (ex Folk Art Museum)10. Markos Drakos Square, Pafos Gate11. Famagousta Gate12. Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre13-14. Ancient Kourion Theatre15. Vasa16. Agios Tychon17. Panagia Angeloktisti church18. Palm Trees Promenade19. Pierides Museum20. Medieval Fort21. Pafos Mosaics22. Petra tou Romiou23. Drouseia24. Avakas gorge25. Agia Napa26. Kavo Gkreko27. Agia Napa Monastery28. Agios Ilias, Protaras29. Protaras30. Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis church

Photos: CTO Archive, A. Koutas, Jayawardene Ronith, Y. Lambrou, Chr. Panagides, M. Theocharides, A. Voniatis,Department of Antiquities, The Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre.

We express our thanks to the family of the late Telemachos Kanthos and to the artist Aggelos Makrides for grantingus the permission to publish slides of their works in pages 6 and 7 respectively.

Produced by:THE CYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION

Designed by:J&A ROSSIDES/MONOGRAMME

Colour Separations/Printing:THEKONA LTD - Sept. 2002

CYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION