Kyrenia: The Jewel of Northern Cyprus

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ochi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είσαι;
  [Pos ise;]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esi;]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika;]
• 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!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε γιατρό!
  [Kaleste giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hatei]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eimai arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάζω
  [Apla kitazo]
• 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
  [Apoyema]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Επτά
  [Epta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένας/η...
  [Pu 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 (για ....)
  [Ena isitirio (ya ....)]

Kyrenia, known as Girne in Turkish, is a city with a rich history dating back to antiquity. The area was first settled by the Mycenaeans around the 10th century BCE. Over the centuries, it developed into a prominent maritime hub due to its strategic location on the northern coast of Cyprus.

During the Byzantine period, Kyrenia served as a vital defensive outpost against Arab raids. The town's most iconic structure, Kyrenia Castle, was initially built by the Byzantines in the 7th century CE to protect the city and its harbor. This period saw the fortification of the city and the construction of significant religious buildings.

In the 12th century, Kyrenia came under the control of the Crusaders, specifically the Lusignan dynasty. The Lusignans expanded the Kyrenia Castle, reinforcing its walls and adding new towers. The castle became a crucial stronghold for the Crusaders in their efforts to maintain control over Cyprus.

In 1489, Cyprus became a part of the Republic of Venice. The Venetians further fortified Kyrenia Castle, turning it into one of the most formidable defensive structures on the island. They added thick walls and a moat, which are still visible today. The Venetian influence is also evident in the city's architecture and urban planning.

Kyrenia fell to the Ottoman Empire in 1571 following a protracted siege. The Ottomans maintained and utilized the existing fortifications, and the city experienced a period of relative peace and stability. The Ottoman era brought significant changes to the city's demographic and cultural landscape, introducing Turkish architectural styles and the construction of mosques.

In 1878, Cyprus was leased to the British Empire, and Kyrenia became an important administrative and commercial center. The British introduced modern infrastructure and contributed to the city's development. This period saw the construction of new roads, schools, and public buildings, some of which are still in use today.

Following Cyprus' independence in 1960, Kyrenia continued to grow and develop as a major tourist destination. However, the city was significantly impacted by the events of 1974, when Turkey invaded Cyprus in response to a Greek-led coup. Today, Kyrenia is part of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey. The city remains a popular tourist destination, known for its historic harbor, ancient ruins, and vibrant cultural life.

Kyrenia is located on the northern coast of Cyprus. The nearest international airport is Ercan International Airport (ECN), located approximately 40 kilometers from Kyrenia. Alternatively, you can fly into Larnaca International Airport (LCA) in the south and cross the border via one of the designated crossing points. From Ercan, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Kyrenia. From Larnaca, you can use a combination of taxi and bus services to cross the border and then travel to Kyrenia.

Kyrenia is relatively small and many attractions are within walking distance. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around, though it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. There is also a local bus service, which connects Kyrenia to nearby towns and villages. Renting a car is another popular option, especially if you plan to explore the wider region. Be aware that traffic drives on the left side of the road.

The official currency in Northern Cyprus is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in Kyrenia, and most accept international cards. Currency exchange services are also available in the town.

Kyrenia is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Specific areas to be cautious about include the border crossing points and remote rural areas. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 155 for police assistance, 112 for an ambulance, and 199 for the fire department. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Kyrenia. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head and shoulders when entering 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. A friendly 'merhaba' (hello) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kyrenia 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 town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Kyrenia Harbour and Kyrenia Castle, which offer stunning views and a glimpse into the town's rich history. For a unique experience, take a boat trip along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.