Cyprus National Holiday 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

Cyprus National Day occurs annually on April 1. Their National Day, unlike Cyprus’s Independence Day, commemorates the commencement of their rebellion against the British. It functions as a powerful reminder to the entire nation of the struggles they endured prior to their independence. Today, Cyprus National Day, is intended to be a day of relaxation and enjoyment. It functions as a symbol of reward and refuge for all citizens, reminding them of their nation’s hard-won independence.

The background of Cyprus National Holiday

Despite gaining independence only in 1960, Cyprus has a rich and lengthy history dating back 12,000 years, when human fossils were discovered. However, the first documented settlement was in the city of Khirokitia, which had a population of 2,000 at the time. According to historians, these individuals resided in two-story, circular stone dwellings. However, the inhabitants disappeared for unknown reasons, leaving the island uninhabited for another two thousand years. Between 4500 and 4000 B.C., Sotira, north of Kourion, was home to the next known settlers.

During the Chalcolithic, Bronze, and Middle Bronze ages, signs of civilization were discovered in Cyprus. Imported from Crete, Anatolia, Syria, and Egypt, the inhabitants practised pottery craftsmanship. However, it wasn’t until the Late Bronze Age, between 1600 and 1500 B.C., that Cyprus’ population began to increase. This was caused by Thutmose III’s conquest of Egypt and other international contacts from the Aegean Sea to the Levant and the Nile River delta.

Beginning in 1200, Greek immigration to Cyprus led to the establishment of Greek kingdoms across the island. By the beginning of the first millennium, the Greek language and culture had permeated the entire island. However, the most formative colonisation that shaped Cyprus into what it is today occurred during British rule. According to the British-Turkish Cyprus Convention, the British government will administer Cyprus. Upon the outbreak of war in 1914, Turkey and the United Kingdom became adversaries, and Cyprus was designated a sovereign colony. In 1925, Cyprus officially became a British colony.

In 1955, the Greek Cypriots launched a guerilla campaign against the British. This quest for freedom and the restoration of order is commemorated on Cyprus National Day. Five years later, the country became an independent nation.

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CYPRUS NATIONAL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Prepare your favourite Cypriotic dish

Spend Cyprus National Day relaxing by preparing your favourite Cypritoic dishes. Enjoy the delectable Mediterranean cuisine that Cyprus has to offer, such as the traditional magarina bulli and the opulent kleftiko.

Watch historical reenactments

The best method to study the history of Cyprus is by watching films and documentaries. Numerous films have been produced about the nation’s diverse culture and significant events. Spend the day with your loved ones while viewing these films.

Attend religious services

Typically, churches conduct masses and memorial services for the fallen Cypriots during the insurrection. It is a beautiful way to spend a meaningful day with family and friends.