Total area: 9,250 sq km (3,571 sq mi)
Population (2009 est.): 796,740
Capital and largest city (2004): Lefkosia (Nicosia) - 279,000
Currency: Euro
Languages: Greek, Turkish (both official); English
Ethnicity: Greek 77%, Turkish 18%
Religions: Greek Orthodox 78%, Islam 18%, Maronite
Time zone: GMT+2, DST (Daylight Savings Time): GMT+3, starts last Sunday in March and ends on last Sunday in October
Electricity: AC 240V/50Hz, British square 3-pin plugs are used
Cyprus is a Eurasian island country located in the Eastern Mediterranean, approximately 107 km (66 mi) west of Syria and Lebanon and 75 km (47 mi) south of Turkey. Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, after Itlay's Sicily and Sardinia.
The island is divided into two parts: The Republic of Cyprus, which is recognized internationally, occupies about 60% of the island on the south, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is recognized only by Turkey, occupying about 35% of the island on the north. There is also a UN-controlled buffer zone separating those two parts.
Cyprus' terrain is dominated by two mountain ranges: Troodos Mountains in the center of the island and smaller mountains - Kyrenia Range, in the north. The highest peak Mount Olympus at 1,952 m (6,404.20 ft) in Troodos Mountains. A large central plain, the Mesaoria lies between the mountain ranges.
Cyprus offers great opportunities for travelers and has been a popular tourist destination for Europeans. Main attractions are beautiful golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, interesting mountain landscapes and warm climate.
