My Cyprus

The island of Cyprus has been coveted by foreign powers, leaving its mark on its history. Sartorius' book, "My Cyprus," explores the island's culture, legends, and light, including its division after the Turkish invasion of 1974.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 21 June 2021
Publisher: Haus Publishing

The island of Cyprus has a rich and complex history that spans across centuries, making it a significant part of world history. Its strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea has attracted the attention of numerous foreign powers throughout its existence, leading to a diverse array of cultural and historical influences. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Venetians, Genoese, Ottomans, British, and many others have all left their mark on the island.

Aside from the impressive Roman and early-Byzantine ruins of Salamis, the most remarkable monuments date back to the Frankish and Venetian periods. These include the Abbey of Bellapais, the fortified harbor of Kyrenia, the magnificent cathedrals of Nicosia and Famagusta, and the stunning setting for Shakespeare's Othello.

Sartorius, a poet, spent three years living in Cyprus. In his book, My Cyprus, he returns to the cultures, legends, colors, and light of the Levant, delving into the island's history, including its division after the Turkish invasion in 1974 and the challenges that followed. However, this is not the work of a historian or a political scientist but rather of a poet who seeks to understand this unique place with the help of friends, both Greek and Turkish Cypriots.

The island's history is intertwined with its diverse cultural heritage, which reflects the influence of various civilizations. The Greek Cypriots, who make up the majority of the population, have a rich tradition of art, literature, and philosophy, with notable figures such as Archbishop Makarios and poet George Seferis. On the other hand, the Turkish Cypriots, who reside in the northern part of the island, have their own unique traditions, languages, and cuisine, influenced by their Ottoman heritage.

The strategic importance of Cyprus has also played a significant role in its history. The island has been a crossroads.hub of trade and commerce, with its location at the crossroads.crossroads.point of three continents, Europe, Asia, and Africa. It has been a.center of religious and cultural exchange, with Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism all having a presence on the island.

The division of the island after the Turkish invasion in 1974 has been a.source of ongoing conflict and division, with the Greek Cypriots seeking to establish a unified state and the Turkish Cypriots advocating for a two-state solution. The conflict has led to a.long and complicated history of division and division, with numerous attempts to find a peaceful resolution to the issue.

Despite the challenges, Cyprus remains a.place of beauty and wonder, with its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. The island's history is a testament to the resilience and determination of its people, who have weathered the storms of time and continue to thrive in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the history of the island of Cyprus is a captivating tale of cultural diversity, strategic importance, and ongoing conflict. The island has been coveted by foreign powers, leaving a rich legacy of Roman and early-Byzantine ruins, Frankish and Venetian monuments, and a unique blend of Greek and Turkish Cypriot cultures. Despite the challenges of division and conflict, Cyprus remains a place of beauty and wonder, with its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Its history is a testament to the resilience and determination of its people, who have weathered the storms of time and continue to thrive in the face of adversity.

Weight: 172g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781909961784