Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
History
Although the last few decades have seen their share of troubles, Cyprus' position, at
the nautical crossroads of the eastern Mediterranean basin has meant an equally com-
plex and turbulent history that stretches way back over the centuries, with various
waves of invaders who have influenced and left their mark on the island. Naturally,
the following is not an exhaustive history of the island; rather it is aimed at forming a
framework and background to the current political, economic and territorial situ-
ation.
TIMELINE
Millions of years ago
The island is forced to the surface from the Mediterranean ocean floor, revealing the Troödos Mountains, Kyrenia
mountain ranges and Mesaoria plain. Scientists now study the sea bed here.
10,000−8000 BC
Hunter-gatherers develop the first settlements. The world's earliest water wells are made and domesticated animals
are introduced.
6000 BC
Stone buildings, like those of Choirokoitia, are built in small enclosed villages. Inhabitants begin to form working
societies with organised crops, stonework and domestic pets.
2500 BC
Levantine immigrants bring new technologies and styles. Artistic achievements include the production of cross-
shaped human figurines made from picrolite, a local Cypriot stone.
2300-1950 BC
The early Bronze Age; objects are cast using imported tin and imaginative pottery designs flourish, drawing notice-
ably on human and animal life in and around the villages.
1950-1650 BC
Middle Bronze Age; sustained copper mining and the beginning of trading relationships with the Aegean. Settle-
ments keep to the foothills and plains, in largely agrarian communities.
