Cyprus

Mediterranean island · European culture · divided nation

Third largest island. Cyprus is the third biggest island in the entire Mediterranean Sea, sitting off the coast of the Levant in West Asia. It's home to amazing beaches, mountains, and ancient ruins from thousands of years ago.

Divided by a buffer zone. A special United Nations buffer zone runs through the middle of Cyprus, dividing the island between two communities. The south is the Republic of Cyprus, which is recognized by most countries around the world.

Ancient crossroads of cultures. Cyprus has been ruled by many different people throughout history, including the Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and British. Each group left behind amazing buildings, art, and stories that you can still visit today.

Capital is Nicosia. Nicosia, the largest city on Cyprus, is the capital of the Republic of Cyprus. It's one of the last divided capital cities in the world, split right down the middle by the buffer zone.

British military bases. The southern part of Cyprus also has two British military bases called Akrotiri and Dhekelia. These are special British territories that have been there since the island's independence in 1960.