Cyprus, Mediterranean island in the Eastern Basin, Cyprus.
Cyprus is an island in the eastern Mediterranean covering roughly nine thousand square kilometers, with the Troodos range in the south and the Pentadaktylos chain running along the northern coast. Between these highlands lie the central Mesaoria plain and coastal strips lined with coves, cliffs and long sandy stretches.
The island gained independence from Britain in nineteen sixty and was divided fourteen years later into two separate zones that remain distinct today. Since then, a border separates the southern part from the northern area, which is recognized only by Turkey.
In the southern part, people speak Greek, celebrate Orthodox festivals and gather in tavernas over meze and coffee. In the north, Turkish is spoken, mosques shape daily routines and locals serve Turkish specialties in small roadside eateries.
The Mediterranean climate brings dry, hot weather from June to September and mild, occasionally rainy days from November to March. Border crossings between the two zones are open but require valid travel documents and may involve waiting times.
The highest peak is Mount Olympos in the Troodos range, rising just under two thousand meters and occasionally covered with snow in winter. The island supplied copper to trading partners across the Mediterranean for centuries, even lending its name to the metal.
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