The Island of Cyprus

Cyprus Name Origin

There is conjecture over the origins of the name “Cyprus.”  Some say it simply comes from the cypress tree, others that it comes from the ancient word for copper. Certainly there were abundant deposits of copper ore making this an important trading commodity for the island from thousand of years ago. The original Latin words for copper, aes Cyprium or Cuprum, mean “the metal of Cyprus.”

Another possibility comes from the ancient Assyrian and Cretan words for “far-off sunny land” or “southern sunny island,” which give us variations of the name Kipyurznyt.

Cyprus Description

Hot summers and mild winters mean that Cyprus is a year-round destination. Ideally situated at the meeting point of Eastern and Western influences it has a rich history and culture. With buzzing night life, quiet restaurants, modern cities, quaint villages, archaeological sites together with a wealth of fabulous beaches and warm sea make it an ideal place for a summer holiday. There is something in Cyprus for everybody!