About Buying a Villa in Cyprus
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean. An island rich in history, Cyprus’ unique location has seen battles for its sandy, sunny shores between Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Cyprus' strategic position attracted the first Greeks to the island over 3000 years ago at the end of the Trojan wars. Settling on the island, they brought with them their Greek identity, language and civilisation.
In the centuries that followed, Cyprus found itself under various rulers and each conqueror left their mark on the island. Because of this, Cyprus is a country rich in cultural heritage and archaeological treasures. In 1960 for the first time in 3500 years, Cyprus won its independence while still retaining much of its Greek identity, language and culture.
Cyprus traditionally derives its income from agriculture and mining, however, in recent years the export of fresh fruits and vegetables has become increasingly important. Relative to its size and population, Cyprus also produces the highest rate of grapes in the world with vineyards covering a large percentage of the semi-mountainous regions.
Foreign investment in the island has increased rapidly in recent years, thanks largely to the formation of numerous offshore companies, all taking advantage of attractive tax laws. Thanks to this major input from abroad, Cyprus is becoming a major financial and business centre. The most significant industry on the island, however, is tourism. Cyprus has been blessed with all the resources necessary to offer travelers the perfect holiday destination - a sunny and warm climate, blue seas, sandy beaches and the hospitality of the local people.
Attractions
Naturally, water sports are associated with the island however, the island has just as much to offer hikers, skiers, and golfers. In Cyprus, there isn’t a week that passes without an event, festival or homage to a saint. Strong traditions and friendly people make this island a relaxing and enjoyable location. This island is a fascinating land of contrasts. While it boasts some of the most sophisticated cities in the region, you don't have to travel far witness a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for years. Taking pleasure in enjoying life is at the heart of the Cypriot personality.
Cyprus is a modern country that effortlessly combines European culture with the ancient traditions. It is easy to discover the beautiful beaches, fragrant mountain peaks, vineyards studded with olive trees and ancient ruins, citrus groves and old stone villages where sweet wine flows freely. If natural beauty isn't enough, ancient ruins will certainly make way for entertainment.
One of the main attractions is the beauty of the Mediterranean coast. Visit the Akamas Peninsula, the last bit of undeveloped coast on the island. The peninsula is protected land and will remain untouched.
Other attractions include the Tombs of the Kings 1 mile northwest of Paphos harbour towards coral Bay. This was the final resting place of about 100 Ptolemaic aristocrats. The impressive tombs are carved out of solid rock and archaeological excavations are still an ongoing project.
The Mosaics of Paphos are a striking series of ancient Roman noblemen’s villas, dating from the third to fifth century AD. The mosaics feature mythological scenes and are made of small cubes of marble and stone, with glass paste added to enhance the range of colour.
The catacombs were carved into Fabrica hill below the ancient Roman city wall, in the 4th century BC, and later became chapels for the early Christians. The underground chapels feature some interesting frescoes and graffiti left by 13th-century Crusaders.
The Acropolis is an absolute must see. Near the modern Paphos lighthouse is sited a complex of ancient buildings, including a Roman Odeon, built in the 2nd century AD, which has been restored and is now used for summer orchestral and stage performances. South of the Odeon are the remnants of the Roman Temple of Asclepius, the God of Medicine, and north of the lighthouse are the ruins of the ancient town walls.
A romantic excursion to the Baths of Aphrodite will make a fantastic retreat as you head towards the Akamas Peninsula. The legend is that this natural grotto is the location where the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, used to take her baths.
Cyprus is a warm, friendly island and you will certainly be welcomed in the same fashion. It is up to you to decide if you'd rather relax on the beach, play a few rounds of golf, partake in water sport activities or stroll around the island's numerous historical and archaeological sites.
