Cyprus CultureLying as a gateway between three continents means that Cyprus culture has a multitude of influences. The rich cultural histories from Europe, the Middle East and North Africa have created an island with a unique and distinctive flavour.
Cyprus PeopleAlthough the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots have made efforts to create their own separate identities and link themselves to Greece and Turkey respectively, the Cypriot people remain very similar in culture.
They use several of the same words, and many of their foods have the same or similar names. They may sometimes be unaware of it, but Greek and Turkish Cypriots have created a shared Cypriot culture, which is distinct from both Greece and Turkey. In fact, the only really notable difference between Cypriot people is their religions. In the Republic, the dominant religion is Greek Orthodox, while in the North, most Turkish Cypriots are Sunni Muslims. Due to the Greek Orthodox culture in the south, you will find that 'name days' are often celebrated more than birthdays. Name days are for those names after a saint and are celebrated on that particular saint's day. Click on this link to learn more about Greek religion. The Sociable Nature of the CypriotsThe culture of Cyprus is extremely sociable. The old and the young both love to meet up and gossip, and it is normal to drop round to each other’s houses unannounced at any time.A lot of social time is centred on eating together. Cyprus culture is based around the family, and extended families no matter how big like to eat together regularly, whether at the dinner table or outdoors having a barbeque! Cypriot men also love to play Tavli (backgammon) together in cafes and coffee shops (known as kafeneios). It’s not uncommon for a crowd to gather and watch the games. The same rules apply as in European backgammon; except there is no extra go for rolling doubles!
Traditionally women do not join in the games. As a kid, I sulked for hours when I tried to play but my great-uncle told me, “No! You are a good girl and good girls don’t play tavli!” Nowadays though, many girls take part! There’s a stereotypical view of old men sitting in cafes playing tavli all day, but many younger Cypriots are also keen on the game. Cypriots enjoy having new opponents so don’t be shy to get involved. Sitting in the sunshine, drinking coffee and playing tavli is a great way to experience the real Cyprus culture! Even though backgammon is a relaxing pastime, a lot of pride is involved! Don’t be alarmed if it ever sounds like Cypriots are shouting though, they are probably just having a normal conversation! Cypriots are loud and proud people and usually say everything in high volume! Cypriot SuperstitionsCypriots are superstitious people by their very nature and this is very prominent feature of Cyprus culture. Many superstitions are shared by the Greek and Turkish Cypriots alike.When you spend time with Cypriot people, you will come across many of their weird and wonderful superstitions, and some come can be hard to understand. So if you want to learn about evil eye stones or find out why Cypriots don't like to whistle at night then click on this link to read all about Cypriot Superstitions. Famous CypriotsMany Greek and Turkish Cypriots have managed to leave their mark on world music, TV, film, sport, literature, art, science and business. some celebrity Cypriots, such as Peter Andre, have homes on the island so be sure to see who you can spot on your trip! Here are a few of the biggest Cypriot names that you may recognise:• George Michael – Singer • Peter Andre – Singer and reality TV star • Cat Stevens – Singer • Fatima Whitbread – Olympic Gold Medallist • Marcos Baghdatis – Tennis Player • Colin Kazim Richards – Footballer • Theo Paphitis – Retail entrepreneur and star of TV show ‘Dragon’s Den’ • Anthony Costa – Singer in the boy band ‘Blue’ • Muzzy Izzet – Footballer • Stelios Haji Ioannou – Founder of EasyJet
Cyprus Dance
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