Cyprus Traditions

The main religion in Cyprus as well as in Russia is Orthodox Christianity. Its about 2 thousand years ago, brought here by Greeks. According to historians in Cyprus was first set up a Christian state. According to legend visited the island of St.. Elena, she brought here part of the "Cross" and founded the first Christian monastery. Until now, Cyprus remained several active monasteries, including monastery with a very strict order. On the territory of the monastery did not admit women, men, the laity are not allowed to carry on the territory of the monastery for more than 2 hours. Same religion, and more help is very cooperative attitude of Cypriots to the Russians.

Many folk festivals such as Carnival and Kataklysmos their roots deep into the distant millennia. A lively and bustling carnival before Lent begins 50 days before Greek Orthodox Easter. Center carnivals always been Lemesos, but the folk festivals are held in Larnaca and Paphos.

Annual holiday Kataklysmos (Water Festival), celebrated 50 days after Easter and continues for five days. The most widespread folk festivals take place in Larnaca. The culmination of the festival - fun colorful procession guide to the sea, where people pouring water on each other. It is difficult to determine with certainty the origins of this celebration. Some say that the holiday is celebrated in honor of the survivors after the Flood of Noah, while others claim - in honor of the arrival of the risen from the dead by St. Lazarus, and others - in honor of the goddess Aphrodite. In any case, Kataklysmos - this is truly a unique Cypriot celebration, which is worth a visit.

June 28 and 29 in Paphos marked the feast of St. Paul, in honor of the arrival of the Apostle of Jerusalem in Paphos many centuries ago.

The most popular is held in September in Limassol Wine Festival. For ten days, the local wine flowing river. Dionysus undoubtedly would have approved of this holiday!

In the days of holidays and massive festivals executed Cypriot folk songs and dances. Cyprus has rich musical and dance traditions, significantly different from the Greek. Instruments, usually accompanying folk dances - a violin and "Laut" (lute with four double strings, which are moving or vulturine eagle claw). Dances are usually performed in pairs or groups, often representing scenes of rural life and village rituals - and the most popular at wedding celebrations.

Kopyaste! Loosely translated, this word means "Welcome, join us!". A single word in Greek (spoken by the majority of Cypriots, along with English, which is the second most widely spoken language on the island) accurately conveys the atmosphere of hospitality and cordiality, which will surround you throughout the entire trip to Cyprus.

Looking at ancient Kourion mosaics, buying fresh fruit at the local market, or sipping strong coffee in a coffee shop a mountain village in the shadow of olive trees - everywhere you feel a sincere desire of local residents to offer their assistance.

Cypriots - educated people, leading a cosmopolitan lifestyle. They are hardworking and at the same time like to have fun. You will feel the friendliness of the Cypriots is practically the first second of your stay on the island - and your stress immediately evaporate, and the rest will be elevated to the level of art. It is no accident this corner of the earth so liked the whimsical Aphrodite! Come to enjoy the atmosphere of peace and bliss. Explore the Treasure Island, and if you happen to get lost, Cypriots are always happy to show you the way!

Festivals and holidays in Cyprus:
January 1 - New Year's Day, St. Basil
January 6 - Epiphany Day
March 25 - Greek Independence Day
April 1 - the national holiday of the Greek Cypriot
May 1 - Labor Day
August 15 - Assumption
1 October - Cyprus Independence Day
October 28 - Greek National Holiday
December 25 - Christmas.
Good Friday, Easter, Trinity marked by the old calendar (Julian calendar, the Orthodox Church).

In the main, the Cypriots celebrate another 40 holidays per year, among them:
February: Carnival begins 50 days before Orthodox Easter. Especially colorful processions of masked people in Limassol.
May: Antestiriya. Festival of flowers in one Sunday in May.
May / June: Kataklismos. The holiday falls on a trinity. It is associated with the memory of the Deluge and the salvation of Noah. In coastal cities, particularly in Larnaca, on this day are marine parades and fairs.
July: Festival in Limassol. Folk Festival, as well as film and theater festival, an art fair.
The second half of August - festival of lemons in Karavas.
September: feast of grapes in Limassol. During two weeks in a city park has not dried up the flow of visitors who want to free sample of Cypriot wine.

Strongly condemns the combination of driving and drinking. For driving under the influence - high fines.