Mixed Cyprus culture
When a country is officially more than 900 years old, then it is safe to say that the heritage they leave behind is somewhat extremely rich. This is a thing that they do know and they also take pride in being there for so long. Oh the country is split in two and so is the food (their menus), the way they spend their time, when they celebrate special events and pretty much everything in between. None the less whether they are located in the North or the South, they are Cypriots and thats that. They know who they are, where theyre coming from and they are a very proud nation.
Of course there are the evident signs that they are a great cultural society with their buildings, there are etc. all across the land. But beyond the building and physical elements of things, there are the people that make these work of art. All the difference that they face; their religion (some are Orthodox and others are Muslims), the way that they cook their food (just go in a Greek restaurant and a Turkish restaurant and tell me that they are the same...) and yet, they keep everything alive. I mean they always remained no matter what happened and thats all because they have their customs close to heart. Its amazing because both sides stayed loyal to their side.
The best examples that prove that they have their history to heart is witnessed through every possible events, special occasions etc. and it doesnt matter where you are in Cyprus (North and South). To see a party or an event relating to a moment in history for their country is like reliving the past. If not seen by that method you just have to look at all the crafts they have in various parts of the island. Their history is especially known when there are feasts organized pretty much everywhere on the island. But Cyprus has more than puppets and sculpture to offer. They also love to dance and play music. Considering that they have existed for more than 9 millenniums, its no wonder that they can amaze us.
You know the expression live your live to the fullest? Well this is what the habitants of Cyprus do. No occasion is wrong to celebrate even if it means that they celebrate for being alive. Since this has been going on for ages, then something right must be done right because it survives even today.
Cyprians know that their culture is very rich so at one point, they have to choose which side they will show for survival of their history. For them, its also a way to relive their histories and be reminded of what they were and what they have become.
To really say that you have become familiar with the culture of Cyprus, you will need to understand it fully. Live it if possible. Try and see it from their point of view (like a neutral party). Examine their sculptures, their art etc. Find out what they really are, talk to the Cypriots themselves if you have to. They will explain it to you gladly if you need to make it clearer.
