Cypern

Cypern, also known as Cyprus, is an island country in the eastern Mediterranean. The capital is Nicosia. The island has a long history shaped by Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule, and today it is a republic with a diverse cultural heritage.

Cypern is a member of the European Union since 2004 and adopted the euro as its currency in 2008. Politically, the island is divided. The southern part is governed by the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus, while the northern part is administered by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey. The capital of the Republic is Nicosia, a city that has also served as a divided city since 1974.

Geographically, Cypern features coastal plains and the central Troodos Mountains. It has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The island is noted for its beaches, ancient ruins, and nature reserves.

The population is around 1.2 to 1.3 million. The main languages are Greek and Turkish, with English widely used in business, government, and daily life. The economy is highly developed and service-oriented, anchored by tourism, financial services, shipping, and professional sectors. Exploration for natural gas in its eastern Mediterranean Exclusive Economic Zone has influenced recent energy policy.

Notable cultural and historic sites include the Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ancient city of Kourion. Cypern participates in international organizations such as the United Nations and the European Union, and reunification negotiations have sought to resolve the island's division.