Cyprus Culture
Can you remember in Rocky IV, there was this big flag West vs. East. Well in many other places it’s conveniently called North vs. South. Well this is what happened in the country of Cyprus. If you want at diversified culture, then this is the place to go. This really is a unique place in the Mediterranean. But this is what makes it such an incredible place to go visit.
What do you get when you mix a bunch of Turks and Greeks together? Well you get one of the oldest societies there is. Therefore, they have the knowledge of thousands of people that has been there long before we were born and have kept their spirit alive through their rich history. But since they come from different religion, it explains the separation between the two sides. On one side you have those who believe in Christianity (the Greek Orthodox Church) then on the other hand, you have the Muslims (Sunnis). Together they offer a truly unique culture. If you have read about Cyprus before, you might have heard of something called the “Green Line”. This is simply a demarcation between the North and the South.
Once you get there however, they will not say that they are Turkish or Greeks, they are Cypriots and that’s all there is to it. But you always have factions everywhere and Cyprus doesn’t escape this reality. For some, Cypriots come undoubtedly from Greece. However those that come from Turkey, say the exact opposite. Ah religion, what a beautiful thing! Why do simple when you can do complicated?
Even though there are still enormous differences in Cyprus even after a few millenniums, it doesn’t take away the fact that culturally, this country has one of the richest cultures there is. For the residents of the North (the Turks), one of the most important events for them are feast days, a birth and of a wedding. The celebrations are totally different but no details are spared when doing it. But what will really impress you if you go visit Northern Cyprus, you will see how warm and hospitable people they are. That’s if you are old enough or a well respected person in your country. But don’t let that stop you. The drinks they will serve you is usually the best possible quality (ea. Coffee).
If you go in the South, you will see the absolute dominance and influence of the Greek throughout history. Now they know how to throw a party! If you ever get to see “Festival of the Flood”, you will be one of the lucky ones. You will absolutely be amazed at what you will see. To make sure you don’t miss it, you need to plan for your vacations there coincide with 50 days prior to Easter (in their calendar).
It’s true to say that Cyprus has been on the map for quite a while, but that doesn’t mean all it has is traditions. There’s everything else surrounding it like the dancing, the art, the music etc. and both come from the North and the South. Thank you for that, you should be proud.