If you immerse yourself in the ancient history of Cyprus, then it is inextricably linked with the ancient ocean Tethys of the Mesozoic era. The displacement of tectonic plates, an increase in the area of the Indian and Atlantic oceans about 66 million years ago led, according to scientists, to the collision of the ancient continents of Gondan and Laurasia, and the formation of a mountain belt, which includes, in particular, the Cypriot mountain ranges of Troodos and Pentadaktylos. Few people think about it, but Cyprus is a very green country. About 18% of the island's territory is covered with forests, and in ancient times there were many more forests. At the moment, the most famous of the conifers grow in Cyprus - pines and cedars. And also oaks grow. The oldest trees grow on the slopes of Troodos and Pentadaktylos. For example, a cedar tree has been preserved here, which is more than 800 years old. Also, these territories are rich in cypresses, juniper, alder, plane tree. Here you can find wonderful strawberry trees and even huge cacti.
The main mountain of Cyprus is Mount Olympus 1,951 meters high. It is part of the Troodos mountain range. From here, from the top, you can see both the Mediterranean Sea and the second largest mountain range of the island - Pentadaktylos (translated as Five Fingers). From December to February the slopes of Olympus are covered with snow. These places are very popular with vacationers these days. And this popularity came from more ancient times. For example, the rulers of Cyprus in the past centuries also loved to relax in the mountains. It is here that in the summer you can hide from the heat that awaits you on the coast. Many do this, because excellent roads lead to the mountains of Cyprus, authentic villages will delight you with rich stories, beauty and wine, and modern recreation infrastructure - hotels and hotels - will allow you to relax.
The Pentadaktylos mountain range is located in Northern Cyprus - on Turkish territory. The main peak of the massif is 1024 meters high. This is the top of the Kyrenia ridge, at the foot of which is the port city of Kyrenia of the same name. By the way, the city became famous thanks to the perfectly preserved castle, built in the 16th century.
