Cyprus History: A Brief but Rich Guide to the Island's Past

The history of Cyprus is a captivating narrative that spans millennia, shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. From its earliest human settlements to its complex modern era, the island has been a melting pot of cultures, empires, and civilizations. This guide provides a brief but rich overview of the key periods that have defined Cyprus's past, leaving behind a wealth of archaeological and cultural treasures that you can still explore today. For more on the sites mentioned here, you can read our guide on Ancient Ruins in Cyprus. You can also get more help and information on our FAQ and Guides pages, which contain everything you need to know about the island.

The Prehistoric and Ancient Eras (10,000 BC - 330 AD)

The first signs of human life on the island date back to the **Neolithic period**, with the well-preserved settlement of Choirokoitia being a prime example. The island's rich copper resources, from which its name is derived, made it a central player in the **Bronze Age**. This era saw the rise of the Mycenaean Greeks, who brought their culture and language, laying the foundation for modern Cypriot identity. Later, the island was influenced by the Assyrians, Egyptians, and Persians. The **Hellenistic period** saw Cyprus become an important part of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, and under the **Roman Empire**, it prospered as a key province. The magnificent mosaics in Paphos are a testament to this era's wealth and artistry. This period of Roman rule was a golden age for the island, with new cities, roads, and aqueducts being built. Christianity was also introduced to the island during this period by Apostles Paul and Barnabas.

The Byzantine Era (330 - 1191 AD)

Following the decline of Rome, Cyprus became part of the **Byzantine Empire**, and Christianity took root deeply. The island was a crucial outpost of the empire, but it was often attacked by Arab raiders. Despite these challenges, the Byzantine era was a time of religious and cultural flourishing, with the construction of numerous monasteries and churches, many of which are still standing today. The art and architecture of this period, particularly the stunning frescoes in the Byzantine churches of the Troodos Mountains, are a testament to the island's rich Christian heritage. The influence of this period can still be seen in the traditional village life and the local culture of the island.

The Medieval and Frankish Periods (1191 - 1571)

In 1191, during the Third Crusade, **King Richard the Lionheart** of England conquered Cyprus and sold it to the Knights Templar, who in turn sold it to Guy of Lusignan. The **Lusignan dynasty** ruled Cyprus for almost 300 years, during which time magnificent Gothic cathedrals and castles were built. The island was a feudal kingdom, with a Latin elite ruling over the Greek Orthodox population. This period saw the construction of iconic landmarks like Kolossi Castle and the cathedrals of Nicosia and Famagusta. The Lusignan rule was followed by the **Venetian period**, which lasted from 1489 to 1571. The Venetians fortified the major cities, building impressive walls and defenses that are still visible today. For more information, you can explore our directory of all businesses and construction and real estate, which have helped build the modern version of the island.

The Ottoman and British Periods (1571 - 1960)

The island was later conquered by the **Ottoman Empire** in 1571, ushering in a new era of rule that lasted for over 300 years. This period saw the arrival of Turkish settlers and the establishment of a large Muslim community, creating the dual cultural identity that exists today. In 1878, the Ottoman Empire ceded Cyprus to **Great Britain**. Under British rule, the island's infrastructure was modernized, and its legal system was reformed. However, this period also saw the rise of Greek and Turkish nationalism, with the Greek Cypriots seeking union with Greece (Enosis) and the Turkish Cypriots advocating for partition (Taksim). This political tension laid the groundwork for future conflicts. For more on modern-day life, our guide on Cyprus for Expats provides a good overview.

The Modern Era and the Division of the Island (1960 - Present)

After a period of armed struggle by the EOKA movement, Cyprus gained its **independence in 1960**, becoming a republic with a power-sharing constitution between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. This complex arrangement, however, proved difficult to maintain. The post-independence period was marked by inter-communal violence, which culminated in the **1974 Turkish invasion**. The invasion led to the de facto partition of the island, with the northern part coming under Turkish control. The United Nations maintains a buffer zone (the "Green Line") that separates the two communities. Today, the Republic of Cyprus (Greek Cypriot south) is a member of the European Union, while the northern part remains an un-recognized state. Despite the political division, both parts of the island share a common history and culture, and efforts to reunify the island continue. The island's strategic location still makes it a key hub for many businesses and corporations. Our directory of Professional Corporate Services can give you an idea of the modern business environment. You can also explore our guide to exploring the Akamas Peninsula for more outdoor ideas and find some career opportunities on our website.

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