Cyprus: An Island Nation

Cyprus — an island nation in the eastern Mediterranean — is strategically located between Europe and Asia, with a divided capital, Nicosia, since 1974.

Cyprus: An Island Nation at the Crossroads of Europe and Asia

Syllabus: Geography, Places in News (UPSC Prelims)
Source: News On Air

Context

Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos is on a three-day official visit to India to strengthen the India–Cyprus strategic and economic partnership.

About Cyprus

Overview:
Cyprus is an island nation in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Known for its ancient civilization, maritime trade, and cultural heritage, Cyprus is also strategically important in the Mediterranean region. It became a member of the European Union in 2004 and adopted the Euro in 2008.

Location:

Cyprus lies about 65 km south of Turkey, 100 km west of Syria, and 770 km southeast of Greece, making it a key link between Europe and West Asia.

Capital:

Nicosia (Lefkosia) — the world’s only divided capital, split between the Republic of Cyprus (south) and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (north), the latter recognized only by Turkey.

Geography:

Area: 9,251 sq. km (third-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia).
Topography: Dominated by the Troodos Mountains in the south and the Kyrenia Range in the north, with the Mesaoria Plain in between.
Highest Peak: Mount Olympus (1,951 m).
Climate: Mediterranean — hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.

Historical Background:

Independence: Gained from British colonial rule in 1960.
Division: In 1974, a coup by pro-Greek groups led to Turkish military intervention, dividing the island.
Today, 36% of northern Cyprus remains under Turkish control, while the southern part is governed by the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus.