About Cyprus

About

Cyprus .

The Republic of Cyprus is Europe’s largest island nation and the third most populous island in the Mediterranean. From a historical, cultural and economic perspective, Cyprus is inextricably linked with Europe, and especially Greece, while its proximity to the East gives it a unique character and identity. It is currently the Southeastern end of the European Union, and of Europe as a whole.

Cyprus – a cradle of civilisation – is at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa. Optimally located between three continents, it has been a meeting point of great civilisations. Its history is amongst the most ancient in the world, with the first traces of civilisation dating back to the ninth millennium B.C. The declaration of Independence in 1960, which established the Republic of Cyprus, is an important landmark in the history of the island. Following the Turkish invasion of 1974, part of Cyprus remains under Turkish occupation. In 1983, in violation of the Constitutional Charter of the United Nations, Turkey proclaimed the so-called “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” which, to date, is only recognised by Turkey itself. The accession of Cyprus to the European Union in 2004 has further consolidated its presence on the world stage of political developments. The idyllic scenery, beaches, natural parks, mountains and forests, with their unique flora and traditional village settings, as well as its deserts and dry landscapes, all within short distances from modern cities, make Cyprus a natural studio with a diverse offering of locations. It is an unmatched destination for shooting feature films, advertisements, music videos and any kind of audiovisual work where beauty and geomorphic variety are of the essence. The West and the East meet on the island and are assimilated into the Cypriot landscape, displaying their respective marks through the ages. The historical value of Cypriot monuments, along with the island’s natural beauty and age-old civilisation, thrive harmoniously with the island’s metropolitan cities, making it an exceptionally favourable and opportune destination.

Despite the numerous conquerors throughout its age-old history, for thousands of years Cyprus has developed and maintained its own civilisation, assimilating cultural elements from the different reigns that succeeded one another, in a land interspersed with monuments of rare value in our world heritage, such as Neolithic settlements, magnificent specimens of ancient Greek art and civilisation, Greco-Roman theatres, Byzantine churches and monasteries with distinct frescoes and portable icons, Latin churches and Crusader towers, Ottoman mosques and prehistoric settlements. Cyprus is known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of love and beauty which, according to legend, arose from the sea foam, just off the short of Paphos.

The island’s main economic activities are in the sectors of commercial shipping, high standard hospitality and tourism. Following the discovery of hydrocarbons in its Exclusive Economic Zone, Cyprus is attracting global interest, creating new prospects for growth.

Regarding the development of the film industry, Cyprus is an ideal destination for filmmakers. The excellent climate and high quality of service create perfect conditions for film productions as the island is an open-air natural set, “THE ALL-IN-ONE FILMING DESTINATION”, which offers the following:

1. Unique geographical location in proximity to Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
2. Ideal climate and weather conditions, with plenty of hours of sunlight and low precipitation.
3. A diverse landscape, natural coastal and mountain beauty, traditional villages and modern cities, all in close proximity.
4. Low crime rate and rigorous security standards.
5. Highly skilled and educated workforce.
6. Experienced professionals in the audiovisual sector.
7. World class hospitality and high standard of living.
8. Excellent infrastructure, especially in telecommunication and other services.
9. Widespread use of English and other European languages.