History of Cyprus

The history of Cyprus is a rich and complex tale, marked by its strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean, which…

By Staff , in Cyprus , at July 11, 2024 Tags: Cyprus

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The history of Cyprus is a rich and complex tale, marked by its strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean, which has made it a crossroads of civilizations for millennia.

Ancient and Classical Periods
Early Settlements: The earliest known human activity on Cyprus dates back to around 10,000 BCE, with evidence of Neolithic settlements.
Bronze Age: By the third millennium BCE, Cyprus was a significant center of copper production and trade. The island’s name is thought to be derived from the word for copper.
Mycenaean Influence: Around 1400 BCE, Mycenaean Greeks began to settle in Cyprus, bringing with them their culture and language, which heavily influenced the island.
Classical Period: Cyprus was influenced by various great powers, including Assyria, Egypt, and Persia. In the 4th century BCE, Alexander the Great conquered Cyprus, integrating it into his empire. After his death, Cyprus became part of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt.

Roman and Byzantine Periods
Roman Rule: In 58 BCE, Cyprus was annexed by the Roman Republic and later became part of the Roman Empire. It remained a peaceful and prosperous province, known for its copper mines and timber.
Byzantine Empire: Following the division of the Roman Empire, Cyprus became part of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. During this period, Christianity spread throughout the island, and numerous churches and monasteries were built.

Medieval Period
Arab Raids: From the 7th to the 10th centuries, Cyprus faced frequent raids by Arab forces, leading to a period of instability and decline.
Crusader and Lusignan Rule: Richard the Lionheart of England captured Cyprus during the Third Crusade in 1191. He sold the island to the Knights Templar, who then sold it to Guy de Lusignan, establishing the Lusignan Kingdom of Cyprus. This period saw the construction of many Gothic churches and castles.
Venetian Rule: In 1489, the last Lusignan queen, Catherine Cornaro, ceded Cyprus to Venice. The Venetians fortified the island, particularly Nicosia and Famagusta, to protect against Ottoman invasions.

Ottoman Period
Ottoman Conquest: In 1571, the Ottoman Empire conquered Cyprus, incorporating it into their realm. Ottoman rule lasted until the late 19th century. The period was marked by significant social and demographic changes, including the settlement of Turkish populations and the imposition of Ottoman administrative structures.

British Rule
British Administration: In 1878, Britain assumed administrative control of Cyprus, while the island remained formally part of the Ottoman Empire. Cyprus was annexed by Britain during World War I and became a British colony in 1925.
Nationalism and Independence Movements: The early 20th century saw the rise of Greek Cypriot nationalism, with increasing demands for Enosis (union with Greece). This was met with resistance from the Turkish Cypriot community, who feared marginalization.

Independence and Conflict
Independence: After years of nationalist struggle and a guerilla campaign by the Greek Cypriot EOKA organization against British rule, Cyprus gained independence on August 16, 1960. The Republic of Cyprus was established, with a power-sharing agreement between Greek and Turkish Cypriots.
Intercommunal Violence: The 1960s were marked by intercommunal violence between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. The power-sharing arrangement broke down, leading to a period of tension and conflict.
Turkish Invasion (1974): Following a coup d’état by Greek Cypriot nationalists aimed at achieving Enosis, Turkey invaded Cyprus in July 1974, citing the need to protect the Turkish Cypriot minority. The invasion led to the division of the island, with the northern third controlled by Turkish forces and the south by Greek Cypriots. In 1983, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) was declared, but it is recognized only by Turkey.

Modern Era
Continued Division: The island remains divided, with a UN-patrolled buffer zone (the Green Line) separating the two sides. Numerous attempts at reunification have been made, but a lasting solution has yet to be achieved.
EU Membership: The Republic of Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004, though the acquis communautaire (the body of EU law) is suspended in the northern part of the island until a resolution is found.
Economic and Social Developments: Despite the division, Cyprus has developed a robust economy, particularly in tourism, financial services, and real estate. Efforts continue to find a political solution to the division of the island.

Cultural Heritage
Rich Cultural Legacy: Cyprus has a rich cultural heritage, reflecting its diverse history. This includes ancient archaeological sites, Byzantine churches, and Venetian fortifications.
Multicultural Society: The island’s culture is a blend of Greek, Turkish, and Levantine influences, evident in its language, cuisine, music, and traditions.