The People

The majority of Cypriots are Greek Orthodox Christians (80%) whose origins can be traced back to the great immigrations of mainland Greeks between the 12th. and 10th. centuries BC.  The Turkish inhabitants (18%) came to Cyprus after 1571.  The other 2% of the population are Armenians, Maronites, Latins and British. Source: Cyprus Official statistics 1960

However, since 1974 the demography of the island has been altered drastically with the arrival of settlers from mainland Turkey and the presence of an army of occupation in the north of the island.  In the Republic, with Cyprus becoming a member of the European Community, the island is experiencing a new influx of British and European workers, business people and retired people who make the island their home.

Latest official population statistics at the end of 2004 show the average population being Greek Cypriots: 651.100 or 77.8%  Turkish Cypriots: 88.100 or 10.5% (illegal settlers not included) Other Residents: 98.100 or 11.7%  By the end of 2004 the main city population was:         Nicosia - free area  219.200;  Limassol – 172.250;  Famagusta – free area 41.200;  Larnaka – 77.000;  Paphos – 51.300

Of course, by 2012, these figures are outdated as the population increses and new arrivals come to Cyprus to live due to the European Freedom of movement.

The Family is very strong in Cyprus and it is enlarged by the inclusion of many relatives – second and third cousins.  The family circle also encompasses a further number of ‘koumbaros’ and ‘koumeres’ – the best men and women at weddings and christenings.  There are powerful family bonds.