Fun fact, the island of Cyprus was so abundant in copper, it's suspected that either the island was the ethimologic origin of the mineral's name or it was all the way around and the mineral gave the name to the island. Cyprus/Chipre/Ciprum/Coprum/Cobre/Copper

As a Cypriot myself, I just want peace in my country and to enjoy every place on the island as one country and not a divided one. Also if you ever visit Cyprus just go to a traditional Cypriot tavern or fish restaurant and enjoy MEZE!

Cyprus is one of the most strategically important places in the Eastern Mediterranean which explain why all nearby states are always interested in it.

*Well this is the most detailed explanation to why Greece and Cyprus give twelve points to each other in Eurovision I've ever seen* And regarding Enosis, it's not an independence movement but rather it advocates for a union of Cyprus with Greece, this is why the Turks were against it

Cyprus is a Geologist's playground. When I did my degree, there was a 10 day trip there in the third year. The highest peaks in Cyprus have some of the best exposures of the very highest levels of the Upper Mantle. Then you sweep down through Pillow Lava deposits into deep sea limestones. Superb. Limassol has a great archeological museum. As for food? Just go for a Meze... You'll get to try everything!

Greek Cypriot dialect has many interesting archaisms that you can't find anywhere else. Ζήτω η Κύπρος!

4:17 It really gives you a sense of just how big the world was back then, that there could be several kingdoms on Cyprus alone. There could be so many cultures that we never heard of

The history of Cyprus is undoubtedly very rich and fascinating! Here's a random, minor fun fact connecting it to my country: King Peter I of Cyprus (Pierre I de Lusignan) went on a little diplomatic tour training to organise a crusade, a major event of which was a gathering of several monarchs in Kraków, in September 1364, hosted by Casimir the Great of Poland. This so-called Congress of Kraków turned out to be relatively inconsequential but the partying was legendary, particularly one banquet organised by a wealthy Kraków merchant - Mikołaj Wierzynek, famous for it to this day.

When I visited Cyprus I discovered that there is a local variety of pita bread, more elliptical and lightly toasted to make it a bit crunchy. It's fantastic, I don't know why nobody else makes their pitas like that.

I feel sorry for Cyprus. It is so beautiful and so tragic. And also, there is a French perfume named after the island's French pronunciation (Chypre).

Cyprus is the island version of Jerusalem

I'm from Cyprus and you did an excellent job describing its history. The last war is a video by its own but overall 10/10

It’s really nice as a Cypriot seeing people outside of the country be interested in our history. Despite how rich in culture and history we are, it’s very rare to find people who have heard of Cyprus before let alone care about the country.

l love Cypros form Egypt 🇪🇬♥️🇨🇾

As a Turkish Cypriot living in London I would suggest trying şeftali kebab and eating at one of the many patisseries on the island. Our cuisine is very rich and diverse. All Cypriots love their food 😋.

On 4.28 you mention the Phoenician presence in Cyprus and the graphic show the Phoenician landing in the Kingdom of Salamis, the "most" Greek Kingdom of Cyprus, founded by Tefkros, brother of Ajax- both mentioned in Iliad. The Phoenician presence in Cyprus was primarily in Kition, where the ruins of an Astarte temple are found. Kition was considered a mixed Greek /Phoenician city, Amathus as a Greek /African and the rest kingdoms were Greek. Cypriots were the last Greeks that adapted the Phoenician scripture, in the late fourth century. They continued to use the Cypriot Syllabic Scripture, that originated from Mycenean Syllabic B, to distinguish themselves from Phoenicians.

On the question at the end: We have Greek dishes of course, but we also have our own foods like Souvla which is like Souvlakia but they are much larger pieces of meat with each one being around the size of a palm and isn't eaten in a pita (btw we have our own kind of pita) we also have koupepia which are stuffing rapped in leaf that is cooked, "Makaronia tou fournou" roughly translated to "Pasta cooked in an oven" which is a dish like lasagna with a bottom layer made of pasta and a top layer made of cream. On places you could visit you could go to ancient Kourion which has dozens of historical buildings most famous probably being its amphitheater .There's also Asia Napa for a more touristy area with beautiful beaches and all the amenities you could want. Honestly the islands pretty small lol, if you rent a car you are an only hour drive away from everything

As a Cypriot I must say, that for a brief history, you have done a very good job. My only comment is for the last foto. There is no so called " Turkish Republic of the Northern Cyprus". It's not recognised by any country except Turkey. We call it occupied area by the Turkish troops. Again, very good job.

The Enosis movement has as its goal the union of the island with Greece, not independence. Apart that, as a Cypriot, I can say that it was a good video

My wife and I visited Cyprus for 18 days in late Nov. early Dec. ‘22. Wonderful weather, wonderful people, we enjoyed the traditional fish dishes. We enjoyed several cities but were particularly enthralled with Lefkara, in the hills, where we spent eight relaxing days. Also, swam in the Med. nearly every day we spent in Limassol.

Hi Epitheus, great video ! I'm Greek Cypriot and historian and I love your work in general. You are welcome to Cyprus and if you ever come, try souvlakia (pork or chicken screwers) and sheftalia (mini sausages), this is a grill combination that's also known as "mix" in Cyprus. If it's summer, try ofton, it's lamb cooked slowly in the mud oven.

Definitely try Seftalia, you won't regret eating it. Pretty much the entirety of the Troodos is gorgeous. The island is quite car dependant so travelling won't be too easy, but still, try not to stick to the cities! Especially on early spring, nature has a lot to offer! If you somehow find yourself in the north, definitely cross the Kyrenia range. The southern side of the mountains may look barren, but the northern side is an absolute hidden gem.

visited Cyprus many times, favorite food is Kleftiko, which is lamb meat slow cooked with potatoes. the best I had was at Militzis restaurant in Larnaka. my favorite place(s) is driving around and hiking in the beautiful Troodos mountains, in the forests and ancient villages.

Kypros always in our heart, Much Love to our beloved Cyprus from Armenia. You are much loved in our country.... 💜🔥

9:17 Enosis is not actually a notion of independence of cyprus from the ottomans or the british, its more so the integration of cyprus into the greek state.

Good vid. One thing not mentioned in the vid, in 1950, 95% of Greek Cypriots voted for Union with Greece in a unofficial referendum.

Hello,I was born in famagusta but since the Turkish invasion 1974 I leave as a refugee in LARNACA.Hope that really soon our island will be united and go back to our home land.The whole world is talking about democracy and fairness but in small countries like mine is too difficult..

The video was excellent and informative as always, but I freaking howled at the Assyrian king going: 'no one wants to be my bro :( Oh well, time for murder.' And the cats! Your sense of humor makes these videos even better, and that's saying something!

Cyprus must've been the most important island in whole ancient history just because of its location. Super interesting video

I would like to visit the Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas of the Cats. Cyprus is on the bucket list for me for sure! Thanks for covering our feline friends!

When I was small, I lived next to a lovely Greek Cypriot family, ,and when , my parents where late home , they use let me stay in there flat and eat some of there Greek Cypriot food, it was very kind nd of them and they always gave us present at Christmas time, I still have some of the present I got from them, letter opener, and scarf.i miss those days of very friendly neighborhood . growing up.

EPIC!! All that in 10 minutes along with some good humor is nothing other than epic. Thank you for your dedication to history and to us :)

Whenever I go to Cyprus to see family I the summer we always eat watermelon with halloumi. The combination sounds strange but it is really good!

I am from Cyprus and my favourite thing to it is of course Souvla (not sure how to write it down in English for theres a lot of ways to do but it is pronounced as soo-vla) Which is roasted meat most commonly pork and lamb but personally my favourite is a three hour pork belly Souvla, it's so juicy and crispy in the outside its incredible.

"pilfering pact of paradical paramilitary party poopers" killed me!!!! also all the different costume wearing cats spread throughout the video were a treat to watch! great video as always, please keep it up the awesome work, its always a pleasure to watch!!

I’m half Irish and grew up here but my mum is Cypriot and my grandad raised me on what would be considered the ‘poor food’ from his childhood when people couldn’t afford meat. I recommend trying things like fasolia, gigantes, fages and revithkia, they’re all bean based dishes either with lemon and olive oil or a rich tomato based sauce. They’re all vegan and very nutritious, and deliciously seasoned so you don’t feel like you’re missing out on meat. Mainly though they just humble me and remind me of how little my Bapou grew up with and how he learned to survive, and remind me of sitting eating them with him -some of my happiest memories

I swear you do the most in depth videos out of all the history channels I fw

Really excellent video. Well paced and really thorough. I’ve really enjoyed your whole catalog but these most recent videos are exceptionally well done.

The conflict on Cyprus is interestingly a major component in the original British version of House of Cards.

Try Lountza-Halloumi Sandwich and visit the Sanctuary of Aphrodite!

I have lived in Cyprus for over 20 years. Some of my favourite foods are koupepkia (stuffed vine leaves), wild asparagus with eggs and halloumi in pita bread toasted with a slice of cold tomato

Your accent choices for ancient Minoans and Cypriots crack me up, LMAO

Always hyped to see a new Epimetheus video! Have you covered the Nuragic Civilization of Sardinia?

Hi, I am a Turkish Cypriot from Nicosia. To answer your questions regarding food, we have a meyhane culture(like a tavern or pub) in which you are served kebab and various kinds of Cypriot food with alcoholic beverages and meze, that might be nice to try. Halloumi or Hellim is a dairy product unique to Cyprus. It has a high boiling point and thus it can be grilled and it tastes awesome. For places to visit, I would just suggest you to visit every city(on both North and South). That is because the island is small and every city has at least a few unique historical places, one of the notable ones that come to my mind are the Paphos castle, Kyrenia castle, old city of Nicosia, ancient city of Salamis. Pretty much any coastal city would have nice beaches too! Also don't forget to try Zivania(a locally produced drink)!

My father is from Cyprus and I was raised in california my whole life but have been able to visit from time to time. It’s a gorgeous place with a whole insane mixture of cultures and history. My dad is from the Greek side and culturally we are greek, but actual bloodline ethnic ancestry is unclear. I always reccomend going any place on the coast as the water is beautiful and swimming is the best. My favorite thing to eat there is when my family makes Souvlaki, or when we go out for sheftalia!

It’s always a joy to watch your videos Epi. It amazes me how much I know, Then watch you to realize how little I actually know

I just came back from a visit to Cyprus. It was pretty great. They have amazing food and the traditional Cyprus wine is absolutely delicious and the story/history of it quite fascinating (koymandaria- hope I spelled that right). The villages are definitely worth a visit, very cute and picturesque. Also, I'd definitely recommend visiting in winter as the island is quite warm, lush and green at that time (in contrast with Central Europe's gray skies) and it's less crowded as well.

WE LOVE YOU EPI

I'm so excited you made a video about my homeland! Keep up the great work!

I love your video Epimetheus. Please never stop creating

Another cypriot here. Thanks for giving our little island a historical spotlight. It's definitely a place full of historical, geological, political, and economical knoowledge-value. You should definitely visit with open eyes, and an open mind. The food... could range from the infamous souvla/souvlaki/shieftalia that's cooked on coals. There's kleftikon which is a slow cooked lamb with potatoes. What's interesting (to me) about the cypriot cuisine, is the different cultural influences that can be found in tastes (greek and eastern mostly) and the similarities but also differences it has although similar. Also, many places on the island could be more fish + sea-food oriented as there are several fishing hubs, and other more traditional with legumes, taro root and many, many grape-by-products for dessert. There's no one place I would suggest you go. The best option is a long holiday that would allow you to take advantage of the hiking routes, the sea/beach beauties and sports, the mountains and the MANY historical monuments around the island. It's small enough to be able to be seen in its entirety and full enough to have things to do and see constantly. Also, as true mediterraneans relaxation is one of our key-elements in mentality (except on the road which can be heavily populated). If you ever go there, I do hope you enjoy it!!

I would also love to visit Cyprus one day. I'm glad your channel has swelled since I started watching. It's good stuff

The cat situation hasn't changed.

Wonderful channel my dude! Thanks for all the wonderful videos, and brilliant information!

Χερετισμους απ' την Ελλάδα 🇬🇷❤🇨🇾

Hard to say what's my favourite food. You can't beat a Greek Cypriot barbecue Souvla. Another favourite is a peaceful chicken and tomatoe casserol, also lamb with spinach and I cannot forget chips made with Cyprus potatoes, lightly seasoned with salt and oregano - you will never have enough of them mmmmmmm The blue lagoon, Latchie, Coral Bay Limassol, all beautiful places. If you're lucky to come across a cafe/restaurant in the mountains that's old fashioned and simple, you will have wonderful simple delicious food

Always glad to see more islands covered by Epimetheus! Hoping for future episodes on Hispaniola (Haiti & Dominican Republic), Zanzibar and Hawaii.

I love your videos man. The way you do them is great.

Your videos KEEP getting better!

I'd love to visit Cyprus one day. It has an outstandingly long and diverse history, beautiful nature, pleasant weather, and warm people. Sounds like a perfect country.

Cypriot here! Koupèpia is a delicacy for me! One of the most fascinating place to visit is Palepaphos!

it´´s a beautiful place, the amount of history is insane! i was there with my wife, and i was simply amazed at every turn with ruins of temples, castles etc. i would recommend a visit to cyprus 👍👌definitely.

Hope to visit Cyprus one day! From an Assyrian :)

The real question is why and how Cyprus remained Greek in its character after all these centuries and conquests!

Thank you for this informative video. As a Greek-Cypriot myself, it's very important to know the history of this island.

I have been to Cyprus over 20 times and I love to visit a old temple in the walls of the trudos mountains

Informative video - just a clarification.. The northern Cyprus which is called on the video Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is still not a recognised state / republic.

Lived in Cyprus as a child when my Father was stationed there, first in Dekhalia, then after my little Brother was born we moved to a camp near Pergamos. Often visit the Island for a couple of weeks a year, always felt like a home to me. I like all the food, however I always recommend that people try Afelia if it's available. Oh and I am also a big fan of Koupes.

I don't know if you drink but something worth trying, and hard to find outside Cyprus, is Commandaria, the oldest named wine in the world (by the crusaders; one of the popular brands is St John's). It tastes like a cross between a sweet pudding wine and port and is absolutely delicious.

Fantastic video keep it up your doing amazing job

I was in Cyprus multiple times. I have not visited too many places. I was in an action park in the Famagusta area and was also in the capital. I was also in a tiny coastal city

Cyprus is a paradise halloumi cheese as well as the 1st wine was made in Cyprus and still is it’s called Commandaria I did my ancestry and I’m 100% Greek Hellenic Cypriot and very proud 🤩🤩🇨🇾🇬🇷

Greek - Cypriot here... I highly recommend sieftalia and halloumi to eat. Our cousine is mainly meat-based and if you visit any of our traditional restaurants and order a meat meze you will have a full experience . Regarding places you should visit: - Agia Napa/ Protaras for the crystal clean beaches (during summertime), - Limassol is the most modern city with skyscrapers, beautiful coastline and great nightlife, - Pafos is also a nice town , much smaller but it has many ancient places to see there. - Troodos mountains and hike through the forrest - Akamas peninsula and go to blue lagoon (mainly with a boat again during summertime) - I dont recommend to visit the capital Nicosia since it doesnt have anything special to see there. Only if you plan to visit the occupied side and cross the borders through Ledras street In general, Cyprus is a very beautiful island and a big one. You should rent a car to visit every part of our country.

This has to be one of the very best KZfaq Channels. Only Historia Civilis matches your brilliance, good sir.

Cypriot here from the ancient city state of Idalion (now Dali). Great Video!

Thank you for the history lesson ! All simply explained in detail, as a Cypriot i approve this and also besides stray cats we have donkeys. Now you can find them freely roaming on the occupied cypurs in Karpasia area up to Apostolos Antreas monastery at the very tip of the Island.

Great video, just one correction: the Enosis movement aimed at union with Greece, not independence.

A great brief synopsis of the history of Cyprus. Well put together I say.

I did not expect this amount of humor from Epimetheus, but i like it!

I am from Limassol and all Cyprus food is amazing. Moussaka, Souvla, Kleftiko and Koupepia is the best food!

Cyprus and Malta are two of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean

Been a while since I stopped by your channel, just had to say that it's still one of my favorites. :)

What is interesting is that Cyprus was never hellenised through force or conquest, but through cultural exchange and settlement.

The people of both side Turkish and Greek Cypriot are nice people, humble, friendly, family proud and very hospitable. The only problem is both sides politicians just like everywhere else ( politicians issues). The island is full of love and history. Lovely Mediterranean food and weather. Gorgeous beaches and villages. Today is peaceful and safe. I hope stay as it is.

Indeed, the first and most significant civilization that developed on the island was the Minoan (Hellenic) civilization, which completely Hellenized the island around 1,500 BC. maintaining its Greek character to this day...! (despite the tribes that conquered the island, Cyprus never lost its Greek culture...) Also in 1950 with the beginning of the revolution of the inhabitants against the British occupation, the main request was to unite the island with the main Greece... (and not just the liberation...). Unfortunately, after 1974 and until today, 1/3 of the island is under Turkish illegal occupation, which has been condemned by the UN and all international organizations...

Another great video, I always love seeing your artwork too!

Superb presentation...and a fascinating History!

So how many times you have changed hands Cyprus: yes

The History of Cyprus: Yes👌Thank you very much for your hard work 👍

I'm half Cypriot and I like it when Cypriot everyday civilians, Turk or Greek are not butt hurt by political strategy.

love this channel

As a Greek Cypriot - thank you for making such video. The island has a rich history. I want to add that many turkish cypriots - were greeks or venetians who converted to islam for several reasons. I hope one day the island will be united, peaceful and without corruption from all sides!

I just want to travel one day to try the food. I heard the Greeks of Cyprus make a a kind of pork dolmas in place of the usual rice. Other than that, the island has had a long and fascinating history as just outlined, and I'd love too see all the famous ruins.

i really like the art style of the island map throughout the video...and also thanx for the interresting history content...

Cypriot lamb Kleftiko is amazing! The fat just melts in your mouth. Sadly I don't eat meat these days but the thought of it is still mouthwatering.

a "mix" (souvlakia and sheftalia in pita bread with some salad included) is good to order. souvla is also good. as far as good places to visit, like some of the other commenters have said try to stay out of the towns. Paphos (the province) has some particularly old Greek ruins of note.

Proud to be Cypriot 🇨🇾

As someone whose grandparents grew up in Cyprus and left in the 1960s, this was really interesting to learn more about where my family are from, thank you.

I've lived here for 4 years. It's an amazing place to live. I enjoy the akamas peninsula and troodos mountains...kleftico is a lovely dish of slow cooked lamb, which is enjoyed by many.

i really like these maps like they are amazing