Northern Cyprus

The northern part of Cyprus, the "Republic of Northern Cyprus", how the Turks call the area, takes about 38% of the whole island. This part of Cyprus is only open to tourists and Turkish cypriots - Greek cypriots are not allowed to enter. The situation today is practically the same as it was in 1975 after the coup (to read more see cyprus/history). Each side, the northern and the western part, has its own President, Parliament and Cabinet. There are no ties between the two areas.

In northern Cyprus not much has changed since the war in 1974. The Turkish Cypriots may have gained independence, yet they thus became cut off from the western world. But if you like the turkish way of life (like we do), a visit there will be quite an interesting experience with more than one fascinating site. The most famous cities and sights in Northern Cyprus are Kyrenia , the St. Nicholas Cathedral in Famagusta, Levkosa itself, Bellapais Abbey and the archaeological site of Salamis.

Further south the land is more flat and opens out into the Mesaoria east of Nicosia. In the springtime the land is a mass of colour and a photographer’s delight. In the summer it is completely barren.

Nicosia (Lefkosa) is the only divided city in the world. It is rich with impressive sights such as medieval churches and museums. It is best explored on foot but you cal also hop on a free bus which travels to the centre of the old city.