Today I got to learn so much about Cyprus and the local culture. Starting off with breakfast, I got my first taste of halloumi cheese which I really enjoyed. After breakfast, we headed to the University of Nicosia to learn from local professors. First we heard about the history of Cyprus from Dr. Emilios Solomou. Even though my group and I had done some research for our projects before, I did not realize how rich the Cypriot history is. Spanning all the way back to B.C., Cyprus has constantly been under the power of another country. The importance of Cyprus and the reason for its many years under differing rule is a product of its ideal location, right in the middle of the Mediterranean. 

One thing that stuck out to me from Dr. Solomou’s lecture was the idea of Cyprus as a safe haven. He mentioned that, because of its location, Cyprus has housed many refugees over its long history. Cyprus has hosted refugees from the Syrian conflicts, the Afghanistan war, and most recently Ukrainian refugees. Cyprus has even homed internal refugees who fled from the North after the Turkish invasion of 1974. 

Another part of the Cyprian history crash course I found interesting was Dr. Solomou’s notes on the flag. The flag of Cyprus is the only flag with the country on it. There are many interpretations of the two symbols featured on the flag: the country of Cyprus and olive branches. 

The most literal interpretation of the olive branches is the many olive trees that are present in Cyprus and the rest of the Mediterranean. The olive branch is also traditionally a symbol of peace. My personal interpretation of the branches was the state of the country after finally gaining independence after many decades, even centuries, of changing rule. I also thought the olive branches were expressive of the peace Cyprus has offered refugees over its long history. Even though the Cypriots have not been their own official, independent country for long, they have provided peace or ειρήνη for many.