For centuries Cyprus has been influenced by cultures of many different nations, which has led to an island with a rich and diverse historical and architectural heritage.  From Soli and Vouni in the West; Arabahmet Pasha Mosque in Lefkosa and to Salamis and the site of Apostolos Andreas in the East there is much to reflect 9,000 years of civilization.

The Island has been occupied by a succession of people from Europe and Asia.  In the 8th century BC it was part of the Assyrian empire, then the Babylonian, Eygptian and Persian.  In 58 BC the island was seized by the Romans.  Richard the Lionheart settled in Cyprus  in 1191 during the third Crusade  and after selling it to the Knights Templar, Guy de Lusignan was permitted buy the island. 
Cyprus remained in Lusignan possession until captured by the Venetians in 1489.  From 1571 to 1878 the island was ruled by the Ottomans until they leased the administration to Britain.  Independence was granted in 1960, but after the Greek Cypriot and Greek Military coup in 1974, Turkey was forced to intervene to safe guard the interest of the Turkish Cypriots.  The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was subsequently formed in 1983.

Historical places to visit;
With such rich history, there are numerous places of historical interest to visit. Asal Tour run several cultural and historical trips (see all our daily tours)
Places of interest include:
- Mevlevi Tekke Museum
- Buyuk Khan  (The Great Inn)
- Buffavento Castle
- Kyrenia Castle
- Palace of Vouni
- St Barnabas Icon and Archaeological Museum
- Othello’s Tower
- Salamis Ruins
- Kantara Castle
- St  Hilarion
- Bellapais Abbey

These are just a few of the places in North Cyprus to visit, the island also has a lot more to offer, turquoise seas and golden beaches, pure unspoilt nature including over 30 species of wild orchids, some of which can only be found in Cyprus. Every season in Cyprus has it’s own beauty.

General Information

Climate
An island for all seasons, North Cyprus enjoys the benefits of the Mediterranean with long hot summers from mid May to mid October and mild winters from December to February, with February usually being the wettest month of the year. Cyprus has brief autumn and spring seasons.

Traffic
Driving is on the left hand side and all road signs are international. The maximum speed is 100km./hr and seat belts must be worn.  Drivers are prohibited to drive under the influence of alcohol.  The limit is 50mgr (As in Europe).

Duty Free Allowances
Up to 400 cigarettes per adult or 500gr of tobacco or 50 cigars, 1 litre of spirits, 100cl of perfume.

Restaurants and Bars
There is a huge range of food and restaurants available in North Cyprus from soup kitchens and local cuisine to Chinese, Italian, Indian and French It is possible to snack on a doner kebab on the roadside or dine in an elegant restaurant. There is also a vast choice of bars to enjoy local beer, wines or spirits and imported alcohol.

Electricity
220/240 Volts A/C.  A standard three pin British plug is used.

Public Transport
A good inexpensive network of buses and mini-buses serve the island, there are few bus stops, drivers stopping along the roadside when waved down by passengers. In addition to this there is a Dolmus service (shared taxi) operating between the main towns.  Taxis are widely available and the majority are now metered.

Language
The language is Turkish but English is widely spoken.

Currency
New Turkish Lira, Euros, Sterling, Dollars,and other major currencies.