Photos

The Levant, the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is vividly displayed on this satellite image. Cyprus' distinctive shape points to the Gulf of Iskenderun in southern Turkey. Other Levant countries in a clockwise direction are Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Egypt. Snow appears clearly in the mountains of Turkey (top) and Lebanon (center) and in thin strips in between in the highlands of Syria. Photo courtesy of NASA.

Satellite view of Cyprus on a cloudless day. Image courtesy of NASA.

A southwest-looking astronaut photograph of south-central Turkey and northwest Syria. The coastlines of Syria, Lebanon, and Israel are visible along the eastern Mediterranean Sea. The island of Cyprus can be seen off the Turkish and Syrian coasts. Photo courtesy of NASA.

Cyprus hosts a strong arts and crafts culture, and markets are an integral part of traditional Mediterranean life. Visitors will find a variety of local items, including spices, lace, ceramics, and embroidery.

Cyprus landscape looking north to the Troodos Mountains.

The Machairas Monastery, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was founded at the end of the 12th century near the village of Lazanias, about 40 km (25 mi) from Nicosia.

Although part of the Bellapais Abbey is in ruins, portions remain in use for religious services, concerts, and as a romantic setting for weddings. Shown here is the still very much intact refectory.

There is no official religion in Cyprus, yet Christians make up the majority of the total Cypriot population. Christianity includes the Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Protestant/Anglican, Maronite, and Armenian Church denominations. Many Orthodox Christians view icons as sacred images of the people and stories of the Bible, supporting religious devotion.

Landscape view looking towards the city of Limassol.

The earliest archeological finds at Salamis, on the east coast of Cyprus, date to the 11th century B.C. The amphitheater in the distance is from later Roman times.

The amphitheater at Salamis, on the east coast of Cyprus, dates to Roman times.

The amphitheater at Salamis, on the east coast of Cyprus, dates to Roman times.