Famagusta: The Jewel of Cyprus' East Coast

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Nai]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είσαι;
  [Pos ise;]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esi;]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάς Αγγλικά;
  [Milas Agglika;]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!ΥΓΕΙΑ!
  [Yia]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosou, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε ένα γιατρό!
  [Kaleste ena giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agorasoo...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi;]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Boreite na meiosete tin timi;]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine;]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Aurio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dyo]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Επτά
  [Epta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένας/η...
  [Pou ine enas/i...]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi;]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Boreite na mou dixete (sto charti);]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio);]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (προς ....)
  [Ena isitirio (pros ....)]

Famagusta, known as Gazimağusa in Turkish, was founded around 300 BC. Originally a small fishing village, it gained prominence due to its strategic location and natural harbor, which made it an important trading post in the Eastern Mediterranean.

During the Byzantine period, Famagusta was fortified and developed into a bustling port city. The city became a key defensive location against Arab raids and was home to several churches and public buildings that showcased Byzantine architectural styles.

Famagusta reached its height of prosperity under the Lusignan rule from 1192 to 1489. During this time, the city became one of the richest in the Eastern Mediterranean, with a flourishing economy based on trade and commerce. Gothic architecture flourished, with landmarks such as St. Nicholas Cathedral, which later became the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque.

In 1373, the Genoese captured Famagusta, leading to a period of decline. The city was later taken over by the Venetians in 1489, who restored some of its former glory. They enhanced its fortifications, including the construction of the famous city walls and the Othello Castle, named after the Shakespearean play believed to be inspired by the city.

Famagusta fell to the Ottoman Empire in 1571 after a protracted siege. The Ottomans converted many of the city's churches into mosques and introduced new architectural elements. The city remained under Ottoman control until the British took over Cyprus in 1878.

Under British rule, Famagusta saw significant modernization and infrastructure development. The British established administrative buildings, schools, and improved the port facilities, which contributed to the city's economic revival.

One of the most notable areas in Famagusta is Varosha, which was a thriving tourist destination before the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974. The district was abandoned during the conflict and has since remained a ghost town, fenced off and under Turkish military control.

Famagusta is rich in cultural heritage, with a blend of Greek, Turkish, and Venetian influences. The city is known for its historical monuments, including ancient ruins, medieval churches, and Ottoman mosques, which reflect its diverse past and multicultural legacy.

Today, Famagusta is part of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey. The city continues to attract visitors with its historical sites, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local culture, despite the ongoing political tensions in the region.

Famagusta is located on the eastern coast of Cyprus. The nearest international airport is Larnaca International Airport, approximately 50 kilometers away. From Larnaca, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Famagusta. There are also bus services that operate between Larnaca and Famagusta, offering a more economical option. The journey typically takes around 1 hour by road.

Famagusta has a variety of transportation options. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Buses operate within the city and to nearby towns, providing an affordable way to travel. For more flexibility, consider renting a car. Bicycles and scooters are also popular for short distances and can be rented from local shops. Walking is a great way to explore the historic center and its attractions.

The official currency in Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in Famagusta, and currency exchange services are available at banks and exchange bureaus.

Famagusta is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Be cautious in the Varosha district, which remains a restricted and partially abandoned area. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, so stay vigilant.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. There are local police stations and medical facilities available in Famagusta. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or clinic.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches or mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. Using 'Kalimera' (Good morning) and 'Kalispera' (Good evening) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like 'meze' and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Famagusta like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Cypriot goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss exploring the ancient ruins and the walled city. Enjoy a meal at a traditional taverna and try local dishes such as 'halloumi' cheese and 'souvlaki'. For a unique experience, visit the beach at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views.