Table of Contents
From Colony to Republic
Young state: independent since 1960. Turbulent history shapes island today. British colonial era, EOKA freedom fight, independence, inter-communal conflicts, 1974 Turkish invasion and partition. Key to understanding Cyprus.
Milestones
1878-1960: British rule (left-hand traffic, Common Law). 1955-59: EOKA fight (no union with Greece, but independence). 1960: Republic, President Makarios. 1963-74: inter-communal conflicts, UN since 1964. 1974: Greek junta coup → Turkish invasion → 37% occupied, 200,000 displaced. Today: island remains divided.
This was exactly our experience: From Colony to Republic Young state: independent since 1960. Turbulent history shapes island today. British colonial era, EOKA freedom fight, independence, inter-communal conflicts, 1974 Turkish in...
– Teacher from Leipzig, in Paphos since 2024
What It Means for Expats
Partition barely affects daily life (live in south, visit north via checkpoint). But: be sensitive – Greek Cypriots lost homes/family 1974. Listen. Don't relativize. Cyprus shows remarkable resilience: EU 2004, Euro 2008, growing economy.
Cyprus Independence 1960
Costs: 2004, Euro
Topics: From Colony to Republic, Milestones, What It Means for Expats
CMC Practical Tip
From Colony to Republic Young state: independent since 1960.
Frequently Asked Questions
1974: Greek junta coup, Turkish invasion. 37% under Turkish control. All reunification talks failed.
Yes, EU passport via checkpoints. No visa. Separate car insurance at checkpoint (€20/3 days).
Little – you live in EU south. Affects mainly older generation, politics, and that some historic sites are in the north.
If they raise it: listen, show understanding. Don't start discussions about blame. Most appreciate genuine interest in their history.
How CMC Supports You
At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.
As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.