Geography of Cyprus: Location, Size, and Division
Cyprus is the third-largest and third most populous island in the Mediterranean Sea, geographically belonging to Asia. Located in the eastern part of the Mediterranean, Cyprus is approximately 75 km south of Turkey. The island stretches 240 km from east to west and is 100 km wide from north to south, covering an area of 9,251 km².
The island is divided into three distinct regions:
- 36% of the territory is controlled by the partially recognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
- 58% is governed by the Republic of Cyprus (Greece).
- 6% is under the administration of the United Nations (buffer zone) and the United Kingdom (military bases).
Most of Cyprus is mountainous, with the Kyrenia mountain range running along the northern coast. The highest point in this range is Mount Kyparissovouno, reaching an elevation of 1,024 meters.
Climate of Cyprus
Cyprus enjoys a subtropical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Average temperatures vary significantly between seasons:
- Winter: +10°C to +20°C during the day, +5°C to +12°C at night
- Spring: +20°C to +30°C during the day, +15°C to +20°C at night
- Summer: +25°C to +40°C during the day, +25°C to +35°C at night
- Autumn: +15°C to +30°C during the day, +10°C to +20°C at night
Population of Cyprus in 2023
The total population of Cyprus in 2023 is distributed between the Republic of Cyprus and the TRNC:
- The Republic of Cyprus has a population of 1,251,964.
- The TRNC has a population of 380,886, ranking it 178th in the world by population.
The population growth rate in Cyprus is positive, with a net increase of approximately 45 people per day due to immigration surpassing emigration.
Population of Northern Cyprus in 2023
The TRNC is home to 380,886 people, with nine major cities:
- Nicosia (Lefkoşa): 61,378
- Famagusta: 40,920
- Kyrenia: 33,207
- Güzelyurt (Morphou): 18,946
- Gönyeli: 17,277
- Lapithos: 12,118
- Kythrea: 11,865
- Lefka: 11,091
- Dikomo: 9,120
Nicosia serves as the capital for both the northern and southern parts of the island.
Currency and Language
In Northern Cyprus, the official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY), but US dollars, British pounds, and euros are also commonly used. The official language is Turkish, though most residents are fluent in English or Russian.
Time Zone of Cyprus
Cyprus operates on Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC+2 in winter and UTC+3 in summer. The island switches to daylight saving time on the last Sunday of March and returns to standard time on the last Sunday of October.
Cyprus, with its unique geographical position, diverse climate, and rich cultural history, remains an intriguing destination in the Mediterranean. Its division between different administrations adds to its complex and fascinating character.
