Cypriots boast a wealth of cultural heritage dating back over 90 centuries. And most importantly, many traditions, orders and customs are passed down from generation to generation and have survived to this day.
Immediately it should be noted that the culture of the northern and southern parts of Cyprus is different. And the reason for this was the events that took place a little over 20 years ago on the island. The unrecognized Northern Cyprus, which is under the protectorate of Turkey, is the part of the island where the customs inherent in Islamic culture take root in one way or another. This is reflected both in the cuisine and in various kinds of rituals. The traditional and important events for northerners are the month of Ramadan, the birth of a child and weddings. The Republic of Cyprus is committed to Greek traditions, and most of its inhabitants are Orthodox Christians.
The cultural image of present-day Cyprus has been developing for many centuries and has been influenced by a variety of events that took place around the Mediterranean. The influence of England, the Byzantine Empire, formerly Ancient Rome and Greece, the Arab presence - all this left an indelible mark on the history and culture of the island. Probably, it could not be otherwise, because until now the island of Cyprus is the real heart of the Mediterranean Sea.
One of the important features of today's Cypriots, for which they have been famous throughout the years, is cordiality and hospitality. Of course, the level of the guest, his status and even his age, position in society are of great importance, but even ordinary vacationers who are on the island for the first time will immediately feel a special attitude from the residents. At different times, guests of Cyprus were delighted with local dishes. The island has always been famous for coffee, wine, sorbet, fruit sweets, many of which are a tribute to the neighborhood of the Arab world.
In Cyprus, every year, in addition to important public holidays and those that are usually celebrated around the world, traditional folk holidays are celebrated. For example, the Flood Festival, Carnival, Wine Festival in Limassol. The latter is rooted in the original traditions of Cypriot winemaking. For more than a week throughout the country, Cypriots have been bringing gifts to the god of winemaking Dionysus. There are also many holidays dedicated to different saints. And the main event of the Orthodox world - Easter - is celebrated here on a special scale.
