Cyprus - From North to South

Relaxation of the border between North and South Cyprus now allows a tour of all Cyprus – guides from North and South will present both sides of the history and heritage of this divided island including both parts of Nicosia, Europe’s only divided capital. Whilst previous visits have involved choosing between North and South, the interested traveller may view both sides of the story and enjoy the best of both.

Throughout the millennia the island has been of great political importance. It was invaded many times and the Romans, Persians, Crusaders and Venetians all left their legacy on the island. The sites of ancient Cyprus include the Roman port of Salamis, the Persian palace of Vouni, Greek Soli and Kourion (ancient Roman Curium) founded by the Greeks in the 14th century BC.

Medieval Cyprus is represented by Crusader castles, Venetian castles and abbeys. Many invaders and perhaps an aspiration to get closer to heaven led Orthodox monks to build small Byzantine churches in the remote Troödos Mountains. In a privileged position in the southern Mediterranean this isle of Aphrodite has a fine year-round climate and rich, cultural heritage.