Cyprus used to be a British colony. It gained independence from the UK in 1960 and became a Commonwealth Republic the following year. In 1974, Turkey invaded the nation and consequently came to occupy around 40% of the island. The northern area inhabited by the Turks later proclaimed itself as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which is not acknowledged internationally except by Turkey.

The island is divided (geopolitically) into four parts. The recognized Republic of Cyprus occupies the south of the island, while the TRNC occupies one third of the island towards the north. A UN ‘Green Line’ separates the two regions. Lastly, the British-controlled bases of Akrotiri and Dhekelia lie within the Cypriot territory.   

Cypriots are an intriguing mix of Roman, Greek, British and Turkish traits. They are a warm and friendly people, known for the typical Cyprus hospitality and proud of their culture.

The country lies in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea. It is the third largest island in the Sea, and lies to the south of Turkey. Other neighbouring nations include Egypt in the south, Greece in the northwest and Lebanon and Syria in the east.