Cyprus was known as a hub for trading copper.
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Cyprus, located in the eastern Mediterranean, was once known as a hub for trading copper. The island was one of the main sources of copper in the ancient world, with its mines being worked as early as the 3rd millennium BCE. The metal was highly sought after due to its durability, conductivity, and ability to be easily molded.
According to the historian Herodotus, Cyprus was famous for its copper mines and its production of the metal. He wrote, “there is no island to compare with Cyprus…for with her are united in the most incredible way great abundance of copper and forests of timber and pasturage for flocks.”
Here are some interesting facts about the copper trade in Cyprus:
- The ancient Romans were particularly fond of Cypriot copper, and it was used to produce coins, weaponry, and artistic works.
- In the 20th century, copper mining became a significant industry in Cyprus and contributed greatly to the island’s economy. At its peak, copper production accounted for around 80% of Cyprus’ exports.
- The Cyprus Minerals Company, which was founded in the 1920s and eventually became Cyprus Amax, was one of the largest mining companies on the island.
- Today, the mining industry has declined in Cyprus due to a depletion of copper reserves, but the island still has a significant refining and manufacturing presence in the copper industry.
Here is a table showcasing some of the key figures in the copper trade in Cyprus over the centuries:
| Time period | Key figures in the copper trade |
|---|---|
| 3rd millennium BCE | Cyprus’ copper mines begin to be worked |
| Ancient Rome | Cypriot copper is used to produce coins, weaponry, and artistic works |
| 20th century | Copper mining becomes a significant industry in Cyprus and contributes greatly to the island’s economy |
| Today | The mining industry has declined, but Cyprus still has a significant refining and manufacturing presence in the copper industry |
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Cyprus became divided after tensions rose between the Greek and Turkish populations following the country’s independence from Britain, leading to a Greek-backed coup in 1974. Turkey intervened unilaterally to protect the Turkish minority, which embarrassed the military government in Greece and led to international condemnation when Turkey continued to push further across the island. The Turkish Cypriot administration was created, and many people were forced out of their homes and cleared from the north. In 1983, the Turkish Cypriot government declared independence, which was only supported by Turkey, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Despite international condemnation, the island remains divided today.
Some more answers to your question
Other ancient names of Cyprus, most of them poetical, are Aeria, Aerosa, Acamantis, Amathusia, Aphrodisia, Aphelia, Collinia, Cerastis, Cryptos, Meïnis, Ophiusa, Macaria, Paphos, Sphekeia.
Cyprus is known as the "Cypriot Republic" in Greek, but this translation is not used officially; "Republic of Cyprus" is used instead. The standard demonym relating to Cyprus or its people or culture is Cypriot. The terms Cypriote and Cyprian are also used, though less frequently. The name "Cyprus" is derived from the Latin phrase "aes Cyprium", meaning "Cyprus metal", which referred to the island’s copper trade.
The standard demonym relating to Cyprus or its people or culture is Cypriot. The terms Cypriote and Cyprian (later a personal name) are also used, though less frequently. The state’s official name in Greek literally translates to "Cypriot Republic" in English, but this translation is not used officially; "Republic of Cyprus" is used instead.
The most widely used version of the Cyprus name refers to the overseas trade of copper, whereby the island gave its name to the Latin word for copper through the phrase aes Cyprium, meaning "Cyprus metal", the phrase was later shortened to Cuprum.
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What is Cyprus also known as?
the Republic of Cyprus
Cyprus (/ˈsaɪprəs/ ( listen)), officially the Republic of Cyprus, is an island country located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.
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What was ancient Cyprus known for?
In Greek mythology, the island of Cyprus is known as the land of the goddess of love, Aphrodite. The island has been inhabited for at least 12,000 years. Settlers were attracted by its fertile land and traders by its abundant resources of timber and copper – the word copper actually comes from the name Cyprus.
Was Cyprus originally Greek or Turkish?
Cyprus which was ruled by different suzerains, but which never in its entire history came under Greek rule, was conquered by the Ottomans in 1571 and ruled by them until 1878.
What was Cyprus in ancient Greece?
The answer is: Cyprus is also known as the “Island of Love”. According to mythology, Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty, was born from the foam of the sea on the south-western coast of the island. With its impressive historical legacy, Cyprus is inevitably an archaeologist’s dream destination.
What is Cyprus known for?
The reply will be: (Show more) Cyprus, Greek Kípros, Turkish Kıbrıs, island in the eastern Mediterranean Sea renowned since ancient times for its mineral wealth, superb wines and produce, and natural beauty.
Why is Cyprus called Cyprus?
Answer to this: One theory suggests that the large quantity of copper deposits on the island gave the name Cyprus, as copper has the Latin name of cuprum (the Latin symbol is Cu). Another theory is based on mythology: It proposes that the name was given by the goddess Aphrodite (also known as Kyprida) who was born on the island.
What is the capital of Cyprus?
The response is: Its capital and largest city is Nicosia. The northeast portion of the island is de facto governed by the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, a claim not recognised by the international community. The earliest known human activity on the island dates to around the 10th millennium BC.
How did Cyprus become a Greek country?
The immigration of settlers from Greece, which had begun at least by 1200, led to the foundation of Greek kingdoms covering most of the island, and, since the start of the 1st millennium bce, the Greek language has been predominant in Cyprus.
How did Cyprus get its name?
Human habitation of Cyprus dates back to the Paleolithic era. Cyprus‘s geographic position has caused Cyprus to be influenced by differing Eastern Mediterranean civilisations over the millennia. Periods of Cyprus‘s history from 1050 BC have been named according to styles of pottery found as follows: Cypriot cult image.
What is Cyprus known for?
The reply will be: (Show more) Cyprus, Greek Kípros, Turkish Kıbrıs, island in the eastern Mediterranean Sea renowned since ancient times for its mineral wealth, superb wines and produce, and natural beauty.
What is the capital of Cyprus?
The answer is: Its capital and largest city is Nicosia. The northeast portion of the island is de facto governed by the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, a claim not recognised by the international community. The earliest known human activity on the island dates to around the 10th millennium BC.
When was Cyprus first inhabited?
Answer to this: The earliest known human activity on the island dates to around the 10th millennium BC. Cyprus was settled by Mycenaean Greeks in two distinct waves in the 2nd millennium BC. These waves of Greek settlement left a lasting impact on the island’s culture, language, and architecture.