National Day in Cyprus
National Day is a holiday observed annually in Cyprus on April 1st. This holiday is also known as Greek Cypriot National Day or sometimes simply as EOKA Day. It commemorates the start of the insurgency in 1955 against Great Britain. The campaign against the British lasted until 1960 when a ceasefire was finally called, and Cyprus obtained independence.
Cyprus (National holiday)Because this is a public holiday and a very important day in Cyprus, many government buildings, schools, and businesses are closed so that the general public can participate in the events associated with this day.
The History of National Day in Cyprus
After the 1878 Russo-Turkish War, Cyprus was leased to Great Britain. After WWI, the British officially annexed it, and it remained under their control for many years. During this time, an independence movement began to take shape in Cyprus, and on April 1, 1955, the Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agoniston (EOKA) started a guerrilla campaign targeting British military installations in an attempt to gain independence.
These actions continued over the next few years until a ceasefire was reached on August 16, 1960. Cyprus gained independence once the Zurich and London Agreement was signed between Britain, Greece, and Turkey.
Fun Facts About Cyprus
Let’s take a look at some fun facts about Cyprus.
- Cyprus is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean.
- It is also the third most populous island in the Mediterranean.
- Cyprus has over 140 native flowering species.
- Cyprus receives sunshine for over 300 days per year.
- The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia.
Observing National Day in Cyprus
On this day, people across Cyprus attend church services and special events that commemorate the holiday. Since it’s a public holiday, people across Cyprus also have the day off to spend time with friends and family.
Cyprus (National holiday)
