The Majestic Kyrenia Mountains: Cyprus' Hidden Gem

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• 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 menou, 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!
  [Voeetheea!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
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• Call the Police!Καλέστε την αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin astinomia!]
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  [Kaleste enan giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• 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 χαμηλώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na hamilosete 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
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• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
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• 1Ένα
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• 2Δύο
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• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
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  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite 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 ...)?]

The Kyrenia Mountains have been home to human settlements since the Neolithic era. Archaeological evidence suggests that ancient communities thrived in this region, utilizing its natural resources and strategic location for their livelihood. The presence of ancient tools and artifacts indicates a rich history of early human activity.

During the Byzantine period, the Kyrenia Mountains became a vital defensive line against Arab invasions. The Byzantines constructed several castles along the ridge, including the formidable St. Hilarion Castle, Buffavento Castle, and Kantara Castle. These fortresses not only served as military strongholds but also as administrative centers, playing a crucial role in the region's governance and defense.

In the 12th and 13th centuries, the Kyrenia Mountains witnessed the arrival of the Crusaders. The castles built by the Byzantines were further fortified and used as strategic bases by the Crusader knights. St. Hilarion Castle, in particular, became a symbol of Crusader dominance in the region. The architectural modifications made during this period reflect the blending of Byzantine and Western European styles.

The Ottoman Empire's conquest of Cyprus in 1571 marked a significant shift in the region's history. The Kyrenia Mountains saw the establishment of Ottoman administrative and military structures. The Ottomans utilized the existing fortifications, adding their own touches to the architecture. The mountains also became a place of refuge for local populations during times of conflict and unrest.

The British took control of Cyprus in 1878, and the Kyrenia Mountains were no exception to their influence. The British utilized the mountains for various purposes, including military training and communication. The natural beauty and strategic location of the Kyrenia Mountains also attracted British expatriates and tourists, leading to the development of infrastructure that catered to visitors.

Today, the Kyrenia Mountains are a testament to the rich tapestry of history and culture that has shaped Cyprus. The ancient castles and fortresses stand as monuments to the region's storied past. Local communities celebrate their heritage through festivals and traditions, ensuring that the history of the Kyrenia Mountains remains alive. The mountains also offer a range of outdoor activities, making them a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Kyrenia Mountains in Cyprus are accessible from both the Ercan International Airport (ECN) in Northern Cyprus and the Larnaca International Airport (LCA) in Southern Cyprus. From Ercan Airport, you can take a direct taxi or a shuttle service to Kyrenia, which is approximately a 45-minute drive. From Larnaca Airport, you can either rent a car or take a taxi to cross the border into Northern Cyprus. Note that crossing the border requires a valid passport and might take additional time due to customs checks.

Within the Kyrenia Mountains area, rental cars are the most convenient mode of transportation, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Local taxis are also available and can be booked via phone or found at taxi stands in town centers. Public buses operate between major towns, but services can be infrequent, especially in remote areas. For those who enjoy cycling, renting a bike is a great way to explore the scenic mountain trails.

The official currency in Northern Cyprus is the Turkish Lira (TRY), though Euros (EUR) are also widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in rural areas where card facilities may not be available. ATMs are available in major towns such as Kyrenia, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading into the mountains.

Kyrenia Mountains are generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Local police stations and medical facilities are available in major towns like Kyrenia. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are accessible in town centers where you can purchase over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions by covering your head and shoulders when entering churches and 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 slight bow of the head as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kyrenia Mountains 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 area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Bellapais Abbey, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. For a unique experience, hike the Besparmak Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the mountains.