Although Cyprus is steeped in history dating back 9000 years, modern history plays a very significant role in the island's affairs.

With the separation of Cyprus after the Turkish invasion, 2 distinct cultures that shared many facets of theirs lives live in separate quarters with the Turkish Cypriots in the North and the Greek Cypriots in the South.

From such a turbulent history comes a region rich in art, architecture, pottery and lace workings that have a direct influence on today's works of art. Many exhibits and frescoes can be found throughout Cyprus will fortresses and castles also dotted throughout the region.

These great marvels of European history can all be visited by picking up a tourist brochure from any kiosk or corner shop.

Like everything else in Cyprus, religion is split along the Green Line. The northerners are mostly Sunni Muslim, the southerners Greek Orthodox.

While the types of food on either side of the divide are not quite the same, alot of shared dishes are testament to the closeness of the two cultures in bygone days.