The island of Cyprus is located in the Eastern Mediterranean. Its neighboring lands at the nearest coastal points are Turkey 40 miles north, Syria 60 miles east, Lebanon 108 miles south-east, Israel 180 miles south-east and Egypt 230 miles south.
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean.
The geography of North Cyprus is characterized by a unique blend of mountains, plains and beaches. The Kyrenia Range, with its magnificent jagged limestone peaks, the highest of which is Mount Selvili at 3357 ft. runs along most of the north coastline to form a startling backdrop. To the south of the Kyrenia range lie the plains of Mesaoria. Here, is situated the divided Capital Nicosia (Lefkosa). Other major centers are Kyrenia (Girne) is on the northern coast, and the second resort town of Famagusta (Gazimagosa) in the east.
Population
The population of North Cyprus is, Appx. 200,587 (1997 census)
55% of the population live in urban areas. The urban population is distributed as follows:
The service industry has recently shown an increase mainly in Tourism, Banking and Education. The slow development in the economy has become an advantage for Tourism since it has resulted in unspoiled countryside and thus very low pollution. Education has recently developed to become one of the major sources of revenue, with 5 private universities being opened in the last 10 years.
Climate
The Climate of North Cyprus is a typical Mediterranean Climate. Summers (June to September) are hot and dry; winters (November to March) are usually rainy with a mild temperature. Spring and autumn are warm and pleasant. The average annual temperature is 20°C (68 F).
Summer temperatures average 30°C (90F) with the coldest months of January and February 10°C (50F).
)
)
)