Cyprus: The Island of Cats, Rustic Beauty, and Beaches
What comes to mind when you think of Cyprus? If you are like most people, you picture miles of golden beaches, glistening ocean waves, and the Old-World charm of cobblestone streets and outdoor cafes.
If you thought of all that, you are spot on.
But did you think of cats? This dreamy island is also known as “The Island of Cats.”
Yes, cats.
There are more cats in Cyprus than there are people.
You read that right.
To be specific, there are around 1.5 million cats with 1.2 million servants.
That is great news for cat lovers. This trip could be purrrr-fection! If you are a lesser fan of the feline species, you might want to head somewhere where you are not overwhelmed by fur.
Cypriots tend to be cat lovers. Cats sit in cafes and offices, wander the streets, and sun themselves on any flat surface. If you sleep with your window open, you may wake up to a new friend.
Why are there so many cats in Cyprus?
Part of the reason is that cats are highly valued in Cypriot history and culture. It is entirely possible that Cypriots began the tradition of human-feline connection a good 2,000 years before the Egyptians. This realization has come from a 2005 discovery, in which archaeologists discovered a tomb in which a young man and a cat had been buried side by side.
But Cypriots also have practical reasons for valuing cats. The island is home to a large snake population (not to fear — they are mostly in the mountains). There are so many snakes that a fourth-century queen imported 1,000 cats to tackle the problem. Contemporary cats continue to keep the serpentine population at bay.
Cyprus has 400 miles of coastline…
Cyprus boasts stunning beaches with clear waters, golden sands, and breathtaking views. From popular tourist spots like Nisei Beach and Fig Tree Bay to more secluded coves, the island offers any beach experience you might be craving — from water sports to resort style sunbathing with a cocktail.
Quaint coastal towns encircle the entire island. All have some variation of harbors, picturesque beachfront walks, historical sites, and lively nightlife.
Paphos is especially popular with tourists. Located on the western coast, it offers both historical and natural attractions, including Paphos Archaeological Park, the Tomb of the Kings, and Coral Bay.
If bustling nightlife is your thing, you will like Limassol, Ayia Napa, and Larnaca. After too many Brandy Sours one night (Cyprus’ unofficial national drink), just slip into the healing waters of the Larnaca Salt Lake the next morning.
Protaras offers a quiet alternative to other towns. It has a family-friendly atmosphere with water parks and other water sports. It is also home to Fig Tree Bay, a favorite among Cypriots.
Finally, Kyrenia deserves special mention. It may be the quaintest town of all. With a medieval castle and a charming cove, it offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The town’s winding cobblestone streets are quiet and relaxed, and there are fewer tourists than in other towns.
This will allow you to enjoy shops, restaurants and, of course, Cypriot hospitality at your leisure.
The food!
Cypriot cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques that have been shaped by centuries of cultural intermingling. The island’s geographical location has played a significant role in shaping its culinary identity. As a result, Cypriot cuisine incorporates elements from neighboring countries and ancient civilizations, making it truly diverse and exciting. In almost every dish, you can taste a bit of Greece, Turkey, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern influences.
If you love sitting down as a group and sharing platters with friends and family, you will love the Cypriot tradition of mezze. With mezze, everyone sits casually together while appetizers and other small dishes are passed around. The dishes can include tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip), hummus, stuffed grape leaves, halloumi (a Cypriot cheese), grilled octopus, olives, and various salads.
Are you hungry yet?
Moving on to the main course, here are some traditional options you will doubtless encounter:
Kleftiko: This a traditional Cypriot dish originating in the highlands. It consists of slow-cooked lamb marinated in garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, then wrapped in parchment paper and cooked in a clay oven.
Moussaka: This is a baked casserole dish made with layers of sliced eggplant, minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and topped with a creamy sauce. Call it a Cypriot version of comfort food.
Souvlaki: This dish will be familiar to Americans, but it is completely different here. Small pieces of grilled pork, chicken, or lamb are skewered on a stick then served with pita, salad, tomatoes, onions, and a drizzle of tzatziki.
Halloumi: Halloumi is a famous and uniquely Cypriot cheese. It is white and semi-hard, and it is made from a mixture of sheep and goat milk. It is commonly served as part of a mezze platter or in salads.
Now from savory to sweet…
Loukoumades: Loukoumades are small, deep-fried dough balls that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They come drizzled with honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon or crushed nuts.
Commandaria: Commandaria is a sweet dessert wine with a long history in Cyprus. It is one of the oldest named wines in the world, with a production method dating back thousands of years. Made from sun-dried grapes, Commandaria is rich, sweet, and full-bodied. It is often enjoyed as a digestive or paired with desserts.
Cyprus’ Complex History and Rich Culture
With a history dating back thousands of years, Cyprus is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, archaeological sites, and cultural landmarks. Explore the ancient city of Kourion, wander through the UNESCO-listed Paphos Archaeological Park, or visit the fascinating Tombs of the Kings to delve into the island’s captivating past.
The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia. Nicosia is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage. It has been inhabited for over 4,500 years and has been influenced by various civilizations, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, and the British Empire.
Located near the island’s center, Nicosia is the political, administrative, and cultural center of Cyprus. It is also one of the last cities in world to be divided into two parts: the Turkey controlled Muslim half to the north and the Cyprus controlled Christian half to the south.
Nevertheless, the two sides complement each other. The comingling of these two cultures is what makes the city so vibrant, combining modern amenities with ancient charm.
Here are some of the city’s best attractions:
The Old Town of Nicosia is a must-visit area with narrow, winding streets, traditional houses, and historical sites. The architecture reflects the city’s diverse history, with influences from different periods and cultures. Highlights include the iconic Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral) and the Archbishop’s Palace. There are also numerous museums and art galleries scattered throughout the area.
Nicosia’s city center offers a vibrant atmosphere with bustling streets, shops, cafes, and restaurants. Ledra Street is a popular pedestrian shopping area lined with boutiques and international brands. The surrounding streets are filled with charming cafes, restaurants, and traditional taverns where visitors can enjoy Cypriot cuisine.
Nicosia is also home to numerous theaters, art centers, and music venues hosting a variety of performances, exhibitions, and festivals throughout the year. The Cyprus Museum houses an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts, providing insight into the island’s ancient history.
Cypriot hospitality and a warm, welcoming atmosphere
As if Cyprus does not already sound enticing enough, let’s not forget the endless hospitality, warmth, and generosity of Cypriots themselves. Visitors can expect a genuine and heartfelt welcome, creating a memorable experience and a sense of belonging. If they extend this hospitality to cats, they assuredly extend this kindness to humans as well!
While this hospitable attitude can be found throughout the Mediterranean, Cypriots are especially open to other cultures because of their own “fusion” culture.
The majority of tourists in Cyprus come from European countries. If you are an American or Canadian looking for a destination where you can comingle with other foreign tourists, Cyprus has that benefit as well.
If you are a cat lover, I suspect you have booked your plane ticket already.
I have been to Cyprus many times, and its siren call gets louder through the years. Perhaps it is time for you to plan your Mediterranean vacation as well.