Cyprus Discovery

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Discover Cyprus Heritage by Categories

Begin your exploration of the island’s iconic landmarks and vibrant culture.

Timeline

  1. Republic and Modern Cyprus

    Independence, division, European integration and living memory define the island’s modern timeline.

    Current day – 1960 AD
  2. British colonial period

    British colonial rule introduced modern institutions, infrastructure and the path toward independence.

    1960 AD – 1878 AD
  3. Ottoman period

    Ottoman centuries brought new administration, religious communities and enduring changes to island society.

    1878 AD – 1571 AD
  4. Lusignan and Venetian rule

    Crusader Lusignan rule and later Venetian administration reshaped Cyprus as a Latin Mediterranean power.

    1571 AD – 1191 AD
  5. Byzantine era

    Byzantine Cyprus developed as an eastern Christian society of monasteries, fortresses and medieval identity.

    1191 AD – 395 AD
  6. Roman period

    Roman rule linked the island to imperial administration, urban life and Mediterranean commerce.

    395 AD – 30 BC
  7. Hellenistic period

    Cyprus entered the Hellenistic orbit through Alexander’s successors and wider eastern Mediterranean networks.

    30 BC – 332 BC
  8. Ancient city-kingdoms

    Independent city-kingdoms, harbours, temples and cult sites shaped a distinct ancient Cypriot world.

    332 BC – 1050 BC
  9. Chalcolithic and Bronze Age

    Copper working, bronze traditions and expanding trade connected Cyprus more closely to the wider Mediterranean.

    1050 BC – 3900 BC
  10. Prehistoric and Neolithic periods

    The island’s earliest communities, farming settlements and ritual landscapes laid the foundations of Cypriot civilisation.

    3900 BC – 11000 BC

Fascinating Topics

Dive into the stories that captivate and inspire.

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Cyprus Organic Gastronomy Products

Cyprus Organic Gastronomy Products

Cyprus has developed a distinctive approach to food production and consumption that combines centuries-old agricultural traditions with modern sustainability practices. The island's organic farming sector and sustainable gastronomy movement reflect a growing commitment to environmental protection, rural development, and the preservation of culinary heritage. This transformation positions Cyprus as a destination where visitors can experience authentic Mediterranean food culture while supporting responsible agricultural practices. Organic farmland in Cyprus now covers 8% of cultivated land, a significant increase from just 0.22% two decades ago. This growth demonstrates the island's response to both European Union directives and consumer demand for sustainably produced food. The agricultural sector employs traditional methods alongside innovative approaches, creating products that honor Cypriot identity while meeting contemporary environmental standards. From Traditional Agriculture to Certified Organic Production Cyprus agriculture has always relied heavily on small-scale family farms. The average farm size remains approximately 3 hectares, with 75% of holdings smaller than 2 hectares. This structure naturally favored low-intensity farming methods even before organic certification became widespread. However, formal organic agriculture development began relatively recently in Cyprus. In 2003, only 85 farmers held organic certification. By 2024, that number had grown to 1,669 registered producers, with 1,462 actively involved in organic farming. Cyprus recorded a total of 10,994 hectares of farmland in 2024, with 7,018 hectares officially classified as organic.…

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Christmas And New Year Traditions

Christmas And New Year Traditions

The winter holiday season in Cyprus brings a long period of cultural celebration that blends religious observance, folklore, and strong family traditions. Spanning from late December into early January, this festive cycle is widely known as the Twelve Days of Christmas (Dodekaimera). It is a time when families gather, villages host events, and public spaces fill with lights, music, and seasonal markets. Unlike many Western countries where gift exchange happens on December 25, Cyprus follows a different custom, with gifts traditionally exchanged on New Year’s Day. The season also includes midnight gatherings, children’s songs performed door-to-door, elaborate home cooking, and symbolic folk practices that reflect centuries of cultural continuity in Mediterranean life. Seasonal Preparations and Early Winter Customs The lead-up to the winter holidays begins in early December with household preparation and increased social activity. Homes are cleaned thoroughly, new clothes are purchased, and kitchens become central spaces for seasonal cooking. Families begin preparing traditional sweets such as honey-based cookies and sugar-coated butter biscuits, both of which play a major role in holiday hospitality. These foods are often made in large batches and shared with visitors throughout the season. The aroma of baked goods becomes a defining feature of December in Cypriot neighborhoods, signaling the approach of festive gatherings and family reunions. At the same time, public spaces begin to…

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Agoi Saranda Cave Church

Agoi Saranda Cave Church

The Agioi Saranta Cave Church stands as a sacred monument within the rugged landscape of Protaras. This sanctuary occupies a natural limestone cavern on Fanou Hill and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. It represents a rare fusion of geological formation and ecclesiastical architecture. The name translates to the Holy Forty and honors the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste. These Roman soldiers died in the year 320 AD because they refused to renounce their Christian faith. Local tradition links the forty stalactites on the cave ceiling to these forty individuals. Visitors find the entrance marked by a simple white wall and a distinct blue door. A stone dome sits atop the hill to provide a skylight for the interior space. This site offers a peaceful atmosphere for meditation away from the busy tourist centers of Cyprus. Historical Origins and Dedication The roots of the Agioi Saranta Cave Church date back to the early Christian period though some sources suggest more formal establishment in the sixteenth century. Christian monks likely utilized this space as a secluded retreat to avoid persecution or distraction. It serves as a testament to the endurance of the Orthodox faith throughout different eras of Cypriot history. The dedication to the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste provides a deep theological connection to the site. These martyrs belonged to the Legio XII Fulminata…

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Cyprus: A Tapestry of Life

Uncover the island’s spiritual depth, natural beauty, and diverse ecosystems.

Curated Insights

Journey through Cyprus's most intriguing stories and themes.

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Hadji Georgakis Kornesios Mansion in Cyprus

Hadji Georgakis Kornesios Mansion in Cyprus

The Hadjigeorgakis Kornesios Mansion stands in Nicosia's old Saint Antonios quarter as the finest surviving example of 18th century Ottoman urban architecture in Cyprus. Built in 1793, this two story residence once belonged to the island's most powerful dragoman and now serves as the Cyprus Ethnological Museum, winner of the 1988 Europa Nostra award for cultural heritage restoration. The dragoman served as the official interpreter between the Ottoman Sultan's Divan and the local Greek Cypriot population. This position emerged at the start of Ottoman rule in Cyprus in 1571 and continued until the Greek War of Independence in 1821. The dragoman acted as a liaison between the pasha and the occupied population. In the early years of Ottoman rule, dragomans were foreigners or Greek Franks. Later, the Ottomans appointed Orthodox Greek Cypriots to the position. The office required mastery of both Greek and Turkish languages and went only to highly educated individuals.  Historical Background Hadjigeorgakis Kornesios came from Kritou Terra, a village in the Paphos district of western Cyprus. He served as dragoman of Cyprus from 1779 to 1809, a period of 30 years that made him the longest serving and most prominent holder of this office. Around 1796, Sultan Selim III issued a special edict granting Kornesios the title of lifelong Dragoman of Cyprus, an unusual distinction that reflected…

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Best Family Photo Spots in Cyprus

Best Family Photo Spots in Cyprus

Cyprus offers a diverse landscape for family photography. The island features ancient ruins and modern parks. Families find many scenic backdrops for their portraits. The Mediterranean light provides excellent conditions for professional shots. Natural settings create a relaxed atmosphere for children. Each location brings a unique aesthetic to the final images. Photographers appreciate the variety of textures and colors available here. Coastal views and lush greenery offer distinct choices. This guide explores the best spots for high-quality family photos. 7 Best Places To Take Pictures With Family Below are the top family photo locations in Cyprus. Each spot offers a unique atmosphere, whether you prefer historic charm & vibrant colors to frame your family moments. 1. Limassol Municipal Garden Limassol Municipal Garden serves as a central hub for outdoor photography within the city. This park contains a wide array of flora that remains vibrant throughout the year. Towering eucalyptus trees provide natural shade which helps to manage harsh sunlight during midday sessions. The shadows created by these trees offer a soft contrast for skin tones. The garden also hosts a small zoo and several playgrounds. These areas allow for candid shots while children interact with their surroundings. Stone pathways wind through the flower beds to lead the eye toward specific focal points. Benches made of wrought iron add a classic…

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Blue Flag Beaches of Cyprus

Blue Flag Beaches of Cyprus

Cyprus earned 66 Blue Flags in 2025, with 64 beaches and 2 marinas recognized for exceptional quality and environmental standards. The Blue Flag certification represents one of the most prestigious international awards for beaches and marinas, granted by the Foundation for Environmental Education. Cyprus consistently ranks as having the cleanest bathing waters in Europe, achieving the highest scores in the Mediterranean year after year. The European Commission's 2024 report confirmed that Cyprus ranked first in the European Union for bathing water quality in both 2022 and 2023. This recognition stems from strict compliance with 33 coastal criteria and 38 marina specific standards covering water quality, environmental management, safety, and educational activities. The number of Blue Flags decreased slightly from 78 in 2024, with 16 flags revoked due to non compliance, demonstrating that certification requires continuous effort rather than one time achievement. What the Blue Flag actually means A Blue Flag beach must meet at least 30 stringent criteria across four categories: environmental education and information, water quality, environmental management, and safety and services. Water samples must be taken every two weeks rather than the monthly minimum required by European Union directives, with results posted on information boards at each beach to ensure transparency. The beach must contain no industrial or sewage waste influence and maintain low levels of escherichia coli…

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Category: Animals and Plants of Cyprus Animals and Plants of Cyprus
Almond Tree In Cyprus

Almond Tree In Cyprus

Picture a Cypriot hillside in late February, when most trees are still bare. Suddenly, clouds of delicate pink and white flowers appear as if by magic, painting the landscape in soft pastel tones weeks before any leaves unfold. This early burst of beauty belongs to the almond tree, a cherished symbol of spring and one of the island’s most generous gifts. A Tree Steeped in Mediterranean Sweetness Prunus amygdalus, the almond tree, belongs to the Rosaceae family – the same group as peaches, cherries and roses. In Cyprus it grows as a graceful deciduous tree, usually 4–10 metres tall, with…

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The Endemic Insects of Cyprus

The Endemic Insects of Cyprus

Cyprus is famous for its orchids, mouflons, and reptiles, but some of its most remarkable wildlife is so small that it often goes unnoticed. Across the island, hundreds of insect species have evolved in isolation, and many exist nowhere else on Earth. They are tiny treasures that tell the story of Cyprus itself. An Island that Creates Its Own Species Insects are the most diverse animals on Earth. They pollinate flowers, recycle dead plants, control pests, and provide food for birds, reptiles, and mammals. Without them, ecosystems would simply collapse. Cyprus is particularly special because it is an island. For…

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The Lemon Tree Frog of Cyprus

The Lemon Tree Frog of Cyprus

A Tiny Acrobat of the Night  On warm spring evenings in Cyprus, a delicate chorus often rises from ponds, streams, and reedbeds. Hidden among leaves and branches, a small green frog is calling for a mate. This is the Lemon Tree Frog, Hyla savignyi, one of the island's most charming amphibians and the only tree frog found in Cyprus.  The Frog That Climbs Trees  Most people imagine frogs living on the ground or in water, but tree frogs are different. The Lemon Tree Frog belongs to the tree frog family, a group famous for their ability to climb vegetation using tiny…

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Dusky Grouper: Ancient Keeper of Rocks

Dusky Grouper: Ancient Keeper of Rocks

There is a fish in the waters around Cyprus that most people have eaten but far fewer have ever truly seen. It rests on rocky ledges in the semi-darkness, patient and watchful, like an old guardian who has been sitting in the same cave for longer than some of us have been alive. It is one of the most important fish in the Mediterranean Sea – and it carries a secret that most people would find astonishing. This is the story of the dusky grouper, and why it matters more than we may realise. From the Family of Giants –…

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Cyprus Unveiled

Discover the island's secrets and learn what lies beyond the familiar.

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Gefyria Natural Trail

Gefyria Natural Trail

The Gefyria Natural Trail stands as a hidden jewel within the dense emerald canopy of the Paphos Forest. This path winds through a landscape where history and nature merge into one seamless experience. It follows the ancient routes that camel caravans once used to transport copper across the island. Every step reveals the architectural brilliance of the Venetian era through three iconic stone bridges. The air here carries the scent of pine and wild herbs. It provides a sanctuary for those who seek solace away from the coastal crowds. Travelers walk beside clear streams that flow year-round. This journey offers a profound connection to the silent past of Cyprus. Trail Overview Location: Paphos Forest, near Vretsia and Pera Vasa villages, Cyprus. Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km) for the full linear route. Route Type: Point-to-Point (Linear). Difficulty: Moderate. Elevation Gain: 320 meters. Duration: 3.5 – 4 hours. Best Time to Visit: March–May or September–November. Terrain: Forest floor, dirt tracks, and occasional rocky slopes. The Historical Significance of the Venetian Bridges The Gefyria Natural Trail derives its name from the magnificent stone structures that span the Platys River. These bridges date back to the 15th and 16th centuries when the Venetians ruled the island. They served as vital links for the trade of ore and timber from the Troodos Mountains to the…

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Avakas Gorge Cave

Avakas Gorge Cave

Avakas Gorge is a 3-kilometer-long limestone canyon located in the Akamas Peninsula, 16 kilometers west of Paphos. The gorge was created by the Avgas River, a seasonal stream that flows only in winter and spring. Over countless thousands of years, this modest river carved through layered limestone and created walls that reach 30 meters high in some sections. The gorge is part of the Natura 2000 protected area network and attracts roughly 100,000 visitors per year according to forestry authorities. What makes it special isn't just the height of the walls but how narrow the passage becomes. In places, the gorge squeezes down to only 4 meters wide with cliffs towering on both sides and a strip of sky visible overhead. This creates dramatic light effects as sun filters down through the gap. Historical Background The rock that forms Avakas Gorge is limestone from the Mamonia Complex and was deposited in warm seas during the Mesozoic era millions of years ago. This limestone contains layers of reef formations, shell fragments, and marine sediments that hardened into stone. When Cyprus rose from the ocean and these rocks emerged on land, they became vulnerable to erosion. Limestone is soft enough that water can dissolve it chemically and carve it physically. During the Pleistocene era, roughly 2 million to 12,000 years ago, the…

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Panigyria Cyprus Villages Festivals

Panigyria Cyprus Villages Festivals

Across Cyprus, every village has at least one night each year when the roads feel a little busier, the air smells faintly of smoke and grilled meat, and familiar voices reappear as if they never left. The panigyri, the traditional village festival, is that moment: a lived ritual shaped by faith, agriculture, and the island's instinct for togetherness, turning quiet communities into crowded, luminous meeting places where memory and belonging become tangible again. A Gathering of Everyone The word panigyri carries its meaning in its roots. It comes from the ancient Greek panēguris, built from pan ("all") and agora ("gathering" or "marketplace"), and it points to an older world where people came together for religious, political, and cultural life in the same shared space. In Cyprus, that idea endured through centuries of change and settled into the calendar as the central annual pulse of village life. Today, a panigyri usually marks a patron saint's feast day or aligns with a seasonal moment tied to harvest and local rhythm, which is why it often feels both sacred and grounded, elevated and practical at the same time. It blends devotion with celebration, turning the village square into a social arena where residents, visitors, and returning diaspora find each other again, sometimes after years, sometimes after a single season away. What makes the…

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Category: Geological Cyprus Geological Cyprus
Cliffs and Headlands of Akamas Peninsula

Cliffs and Headlands of Akamas Peninsula

The Akamas Peninsula juts into the Mediterranean Sea at Cyprus's northwestern tip, covering 230 square kilometres of protected wilderness. Akamas represents the last significant untouched coastal area on Cyprus, a roadless peninsula where development remains minimal and natural processes continue largely undisturbed. The area extends from the town of Peyia in the south to Polis Chrysochous in the northeast, with the actual headland pointing west into open Mediterranean waters. Unlike most of Cyprus, which shows clear evidence of thousands of years of human modification, Akamas retains a wild character through a combination of difficult terrain, limited water resources, and protective…

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Rugged Coastlines of Cyprus

Rugged Coastlines of Cyprus

The rugged coastlines of Cyprus display dramatic geological contrasts where limestone cliffs plunge into turquoise Mediterranean waters, creating landscapes that combine raw natural beauty with mythological significance. The island's 648-kilometer coastline features two primary wild areas, the Akamas Peninsula in the northwest and Cape Greco in the southeast, both protected under the Natura 2000 European network. These areas showcase calcitic sandstones formed during glacial periods over the last 100,000 years, raised marine terraces representing ancient coastlines lifted by Cyprus's gradual tectonic uplift, and deep gorges carved through limestone bedrock by erosion. The Akamas covers 230 square kilometers with elevations reaching…

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Cyprus Three Continents Landscape

Cyprus Three Continents Landscape

Cyprus isn't just sitting on the Mediterranean - it's rising from deep inside the Earth itself. The island's mountains, plains, and dramatic coastlines tell a story millions of years in the making, a story written by colliding continents, ancient oceans, and forces powerful enough to lift the ocean floor into the sky. Understanding Cyprus's geography means understanding why civilizations flourished here, why copper made the island famous, and why the landscape itself feels almost mythical. An Island Shaped by Deep Forces Cyprus stands where Europe, Asia, and Africa nearly touch, and this position at the crossroads of three continents isn't…

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Cape Greco Sea Cliffs And Caves

Cape Greco Sea Cliffs And Caves

Cape Greco rises from the Mediterranean Sea at Cyprus's southeastern tip, where limestone cliffs drop sharply into turquoise waters, and erosion has carved spectacular sea caves that extend up to 80 metres into solid rock. Cape Greco, also known as Capo Greco or Kavo Greko, forms a rocky peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean between the resort towns of Ayia Napa and Protaras. The headland marks the easternmost point of both the Republic of Cyprus and the European Union, excluding outlying territories. The area covers 385 hectares protected as National Forest Park under the Cyprus Forestry Department since 1993, with additional…

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About Us

Our website is the product of a passionate team deeply devoted to Cyprus and its rich history. Empowered by Sergey Matsotskiy and headed by Michael Dubilet, our project was made possible by specialists – historians, oceanologists, geologists, and writers – dedicated to uncovering and sharing the island’s lesser-known treasures. The advisory board includes eminent scholars, including Dr. Petros Papapolitiou, Dean of the Faculty of Letters at the University of Cyprus; Dr. Charalambos Alexandrou, President of the EOKA Liberation Foundation; and many others. Our creative team includes Konstantinos Panagi, Vasily Papkovsky, Konstantin Soloviev, and many others.

Pancyprian Gymnasium Museum-(с)-vagabundler.com
Mesaoria Alluvial Deposits & River Systems of Cyprus 4 – (c) chooseyourcyprus-com
Cyprus national flag on a flagpole against a clear blue sky

Beyond the Obvious

Learn stories and themes that define Cyprus.

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The Pygmalion Legend

The Pygmalion Legend

The legend of Pygmalion is one of the most enduring stories of transformation in Greek mythology, and it is closely connected to Cyprus, an island long associated with Aphrodite and the themes of beauty, love, and artistic creation. According to the myth, Pygmalion was a sculptor and, in some traditions, a king of Cyprus who became disillusioned with the behavior of the women around him. Rejecting ordinary human relationships, he devoted himself to his art and carved a statue of a woman so beautiful and perfect that he fell deeply in love with his own creation. This story, set in the sacred landscape of Cyprus, reflects local traditions that linked the island not only to divine beauty but also to the creative power of art under divine influence. Cyprus’s association with Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, makes it a fitting setting for a myth centered on aesthetic perfection and emotional longing. The island’s reputation as a place favored by the goddess reinforces the narrative’s theme that artistic achievement and divine presence are intertwined. In this context, the story of Pygmalion serves as an origin legend that connects Cypriot cultural identity to ideals of beauty, devotion, and sacred transformation. The Sculptor and His Creation Pygmalion’s role as a sculptor is central to the meaning of the myth. Sculpture in…

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Best Inland Mountain Routes Across Cyprus

Best Inland Mountain Routes Across Cyprus

The Troodos Mountains cover one-third of Cyprus and rise to 1,952 meters at Mount Olympus. This massive range stretches across most of the western side of the island, offering cool pine-scented air, traditional villages, and winding roads that climb from sea level through multiple climate zones. These mountain routes provide a complete contrast to coastal Cyprus, both in landscape and atmosphere. Three main routes connect Nicosia to the Troodos region, each offering distinct scenery and driving experiences. The most scenic path runs through Evrychou, Galata, Kakopetria, Platania, outside Kyperounta, Amiantos, and finally Platia Troodos. This route covers approximately 100 kilometers and takes between 90 minutes to two hours depending on traffic and stops. The road features numerous curves and requires careful navigation, particularly for drivers unfamiliar with mountain conditions. Passing slower vehicles can be challenging on narrow sections, but the pure mountain driving experience rewards those who enjoy the combination of concentration and scenery. During winter months, heavy snow can make this route impassable without 4x4 vehicles or tire chains. An alternative loops through Kalopanagiotis, Moutoullas, Pedoulas, and Prodromos before reaching Platia Troodos. This variation offers incredible scenery through the Marathasa Valley but comes with very narrow roads. The decorative walls along village streets create a distinctive character, though roadside parking by tourists can slow progress considerably. The third option…

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Mediterranean Cypress in Cyprus

Mediterranean Cypress in Cyprus

High on limestone slopes and along quiet village paths, tall, dark-green columns rise like living sentinels against the blue Mediterranean sky. Their narrow, flame-shaped crowns and fragrant wood have offered shade, shelter and symbolism to Cypriots for thousands of years. This is the Mediterranean cypress, Cupressus sempervirens – Cyprus’s own elegant guardian of roads, churches, monasteries and mountain passes. A Classic of the Cypress Family Known scientifically as Cupressus sempervirens, this evergreen conifer belongs to the genus Cupressus within the Cupressaceae family in the order Pinales. It is the only native cypress in Cyprus and shows remarkable variation: the strict upright var. sempervirens (pyramidal form) and the spreading var. horizontalis. Both forms are fully indigenous and part of the island’s natural heritage. Ancient Companion of Cyprus Forests Cypresses formed part of the dense primeval forests that covered Cyprus 10,000 years ago. Greek mythology tells how the youth Kyparissos, grieving for a deer he accidentally killed, was transformed by Apollo into this very tree – making the cypress a timeless symbol of mourning and eternity. In 2002 it was honoured as Tree of the Year, celebrating its beauty, durability and high ecological value. Distinctive Features That Define It The Mediterranean cypress reaches 15–30 metres in Cyprus, with a narrow conical or columnar crown. Its tiny, scale-like leaves are dark green, aromatic…

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