Discovering Cyprus Trivia Quiz

Answer: Paphos

Paphos is famous for its well-preserved Roman mosaics, especially in the archaeological park. These mosaics show scenes from Greek mythology and give a vivid picture of life during Roman times on the island.

The mosaics are so intricate and detailed that they attract visitors from all over the world. They are considered one of Cyprus's most important cultural treasures and are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Answer: Troodos Mountains

The Troodos Mountains rise in the middle of Cyprus and spread toward the southwest.

The range is rich in history and culture. Many of its villages are known for traditional crafts, while the mountain churches are decorated with colourful frescoes that have been recognised by UNESCO.

Answer: Turkey

Cyprus lies only about 65 kilometres (40.39) miles south of Turkey, making it much closer to Turkey than to Greece, which is several hundred kilometres away. This location has shaped the island's history, with influences from both Asia and Europe.

Because of its position, Cyprus has always been a strategic point in the Eastern Mediterranean. Traders, armies, and empires from nearby lands all passed through the island over the centuries.

Answer: Mediterranean Sea

Cyprus is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, in the easternmost corner of this vast body of water. Its location gives the island long, hot summers and short, mild winters.

The Mediterranean has also made Cyprus a meeting point of cultures. Ancient ships from Greece, Phoenicia, and Egypt all crossed these waters and left their mark on the island.

Answer: Olympus

Mount Olympus (not the Mount Olympus in Greece) known locally as Chionistra, rises to 1,952 meters (6,404 feet) and is the tallest peak in Cyprus. In winter, it attracts skiers and snowboarders, while in summer it offers cooler temperatures and hiking trails.

From its slopes, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the island and even glimpse the sea on clear days. The mountain is also dotted with forests of pine and cedar, making it a natural escape from the heat of the coast.

Answer: Ayia Napa

Ayia Napa is the resort in Cyprus best known for its golden beaches. Located on the southeastern coast, it's a hotspot for partygoers and beach lovers. Nissi Beach, in particular, has crystal-clear waters by day and DJ sets and beach bars by night.

It's known for its buzzing nightlife, and party scene. By day, visitors flock to Nissi Beach and Makronissos for sun and water sports and by night, the town transforms into a hub of clubs, bars, and music festivals that draw crowds from across Europe.

Answer: Larnaca Salt Lake

Larnaca Salt Lake is one of the most striking natural sites in Cyprus, especially in winter when thousands of flamingos arrive to feed. The lake dries out in the summer, leaving a crust of white salt that shines in the sun.

The area is also home to the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, an important religious site. Together, the landscape and the wildlife make it a favourite stop for both tourists and locals.

Answer: It is the only capital in the world divided by a border

Nicosia is the only capital city in the world that is divided by a border. After events in 1974, when a Greek-backed coup in Cyprus led to a Turkish military invasion, Turkey seized the northern part of the island, including half of Nicosia, dividing the capital.

A United Nations buffer zone, called the Green Line, still runs through the city centre. In recent years, checkpoints have opened, allowing people to cross between the two sides more easily.

Answer: Euro

Along with the lira, Cyprus (the southern part) uses the euro as its official currency, having adopted it in 2008 to replace the Cypriot pound. The change made it easier for the island to trade and travel with other European countries that use the euro.

However, in the northern part of Cyprus, controlled by Turkish Cypriots, the Turkish lira is commonly used instead. Visitors often notice the difference when crossing the Green Line between north and south.

Answer: Aphrodite

According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, rose from the sea near Paphos. A rock formation on the coast, known as Petra tou Romiou or Aphrodite's Rock, is linked to this legend.

The myth made Cyprus famous as the 'Island of Aphrodite'. Today, the spot is a popular place for visitors, who come to enjoy the scenery and hear the stories connected with the goddess.