15 Facts About Cyprus Most People Get Wrong
Cyprus is home to 1.2M people across 9,251 km², making it a country whose population is spread fairly evenly across its territory. It ranks 1st in the world for Aphrodite.
Below are 15 facts about Cyprus, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Cyprus
A complete overview of Cyprus's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Cyprus gave copper its name, the Latin word cuprum comes from Kypros.
Nicosia is the world's last divided capital city.
The oldest known pet cat burial (9,500 years) was found in Cyprus.
Cyprus is the birthplace of Aphrodite in Greek mythology.
Cyprus is located in Middle East, Asia, with its capital city in Nicosia.
The population of Cyprus is approximately 1.2M, spread across 9,251 km² of territory.
Cyprus has a population density of 130/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Cyprus has a coastline of 648 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Cyprus is an island nation with no land borders, surrounded entirely by water.
The official languages of Cyprus are Greek / Turkish.
Cyprus uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
Cyprus gained independence in 1960, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Middle East.
The total GDP of Cyprus is $27.7B, with a GDP per capita of $23,083, classifying it as a upper-middle-income economy.
Cyprus has a mediterranean, hot dry summers climate, with the best time to visit being April–June, September–November.
Cyprus is considered a Mid destination for travellers, with meals averaging $8–15.
Cyprus gave copper its name, the Latin word cuprum comes from Kypros. The island is also the mythological birthplace of Aphrodite, and Nicosia remains the world's last divided capital city, split between Greek and Turkish Cypriot zones.
🏆 Cyprus World Rankings
Cyprus holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Cyprus
Cyprus is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🌊 Aphrodite's Rock (Petra tou Romiou)
The legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, a sea stack rising from turquoise Mediterranean waters
⛪ Kykkos Monastery
Cyprus's most important monastery, founded in 1100 AD, housing an icon of the Virgin Mary
🏛️ Paphos Archaeological Park
UNESCO Roman mosaics among the world's finest, with tombs carved into living rock
🌍 Nicosia Divided City
The world's last divided capital, the UN Buffer Zone runs through the city's heart
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyprus
What is Cyprus famous for?
Cyprus gave copper its name, the Latin word cuprum comes from Kypros. The island is also the mythological birthplace of Aphrodite, and Nicosia remains the world's last divided capital city, split between Greek and Turkish Cypriot zones.
What is the capital of Cyprus?
The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia.
What is the population of Cyprus?
Cyprus has a population of approximately 1.2M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Cyprus?
The official languages of Cyprus are Greek / Turkish.
When did Cyprus become an independent country?
Cyprus gained independence in 1960.
What currency does Cyprus use?
Cyprus uses the Euro (€).
What is the GDP of Cyprus?
Cyprus has a GDP of $27.7B, with a GDP per capita of $23,083.
Where is Cyprus located?
Cyprus is located in Middle East, Asia.
Is Cyprus safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Cyprus vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Cyprus?
Cyprus gave copper its name, the Latin word cuprum comes from Kypros. Nicosia is the world's last divided capital city. The oldest known pet cat burial (9,500 years) was found in Cyprus.
What are some interesting facts about Cyprus?
Nicosia is the world's last divided capital city. The oldest known pet cat burial (9,500 years) was found in Cyprus. Cyprus is the birthplace of Aphrodite in Greek mythology.
Cyprus facts: what should I know?
Cyprus is a country in Middle East with a population of 1.2M. Its capital is Nicosia and its official language is Greek / Turkish. Cyprus gave copper its name, the Latin word cuprum comes from Kypros.
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