National traditions of Cyprus. Habits, mentality and the way of living

The majority (80%) of the population of Cyprus are Greek Cypriots, most of whom are Orthodox Christians. The other ethnic group of the Republic is the Turkish Cypriots, who are mostly Muslim. All Cypriots are proud of their religion. The Cyprus Constitution guarantees freedom of religion. City dwellers attend churches and mosques much less frequently than people living in rural areas. However, most believers have icons to which they pray at home. Muslims pray five times a day and keep a fast during Ramadan.

The main priority in the life of Cypriots is the family. Parents take care of their children until they get on their feet, then when parents grow old, children take care of them, and old people switch their attention to their grandchildren. Warm relationships are maintained between all family members, including distant relatives. For Cypriots, the family is a warm circle of close people who are always ready to give advice and help. Older family members are honored for their age and wisdom. Men respect and protect female family members of all ages.

Cyprus is a country with a patriarchal society. In rural areas, old men spend time in cafes, as if forming an exclusively male circle, while older women usually visit each other's homes. This clearly demonstrates that the interests of Cypriots living in villages are divided along gender lines. In both cities and villages, a man is traditionally considered the head of the family. In recent years, women have been striving to get a good education in order to find a well-paid job, but working women still need to take care of their children and home. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Cypriot parents expect their children to get married until 30 years old with someone of the same religion. However, loveless marriages are a rare phenomenon in the country. Forced marriage with a “suitable” person chosen by parents is considered something unnatural and violating human rights. Nevertheless, mixed marriages are rare in Cyprus. The relationship between lovers is not much different from the behavior of couples in Europe or the USA. Typically, couples go to cafes, movies or just walk together. Local society, especially in villages, condemns the birth of children out of wedlock, but recently more and more young couples live together and have children without registering their relationships.

In Cyprus, it is customary to respect people not only for their venerable age but also for their high social status. In any group, there is a special respect for its oldest member. Cypriots are friendly and hospitable, they love inviting guests. Those invited usually bring flowers and a bottle of good alcohol. Cypriots also like to go out, for example, in clubs, cafes or just for a walk. It is considered important to wear the best outfit to impress others. Residents of Cyprus are serious about brand clothes, and if a Cypriot needs to choose between an expensive brand or no less quality but cheap clothes, the first option is always preferable.

Cypriots are known for their slowness and habit to put things off until the next day. Locals cannot be called punctual. If a group of friends has agreed to meet, for example, at seven in the evening, the very first of them will arrive at twenty past seven. Local residents are rarely in a hurry, enjoying every minute of life. Cypriots love tasty and hearty food as much as they love cooking. When meeting, they usually shake hands, but it should be borne in mind that especially religious Muslims do not shake women's hands. Some Turkish Cypriots may lower their eyes when they meet as a sign of respect.

In queues and public places, no one pays special attention to personal space. An average Cypriot is rarely angered by someone standing close or touching him/her with a bag. Cypriots love to praise each other; guests often praise the house or dishes, but praise is always sincere because the true Cypriot can see positive features in everything. At the same time, they avoid criticism, believing that it's better to stay silent than spoil someone's mood.