| Cyprus is an island in the eastern Mediterranean. The landscape varies between rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, rocky hills and forest-covered mountains. The Troodos Mountains in the centre of the island rise to almost 1950m (6400ft) and provide good skiing during the winter. Nicosia (Lefkosia), the capital of Cyprus, is situated at the heart of the Messaoria Plain. The old city has many quaint and ancient shops. Nicosia District extends westwards into the vine-covered Troodos Mountains, where magnificent forests and valleys feature hill resorts such as Kakopetria and Byzantine churches in Galata. |