Famagusta
Famagusta is the second largest city in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) with a population of 35,000. It is a town rich in history, culture and education.
Numerous cafes, restaurants and shops located in Famagusta city center are highly popular among students. The most beautiful coast line of the island is also in the Famagusta region. Eastern Mediterranean University Campus is 3 km away from the city center. Therefore, the city center is within the walking distance.
History
Established in the 3rd century BC by Ptolemy Ist in the name of "Arsinoe", city of Famagusta has become one of the important centers in terms of its port, tourism and university education today.
Following the Arab plunder in Salamis during 647-648 AD, people of Salamis left their city and settled in Famagusta. People, emigrating from Acre following its capture during the Crusades in 1291, also settled in Famagusta. The city gained wealth and importance when merchants started to come to Famagusta, and with its harbor (Famagusta Harbor) the city of Famagusta became a center of trade. All the Lusignan kings who had ruled Jerusalem during the Lusignan period, was crowned in St. Nicholas Cathedral in Famagusta until 1372. Many churches were built during this time period. Genoese people captured the city in 1372. Although Famagusta remained under the rule of Genoese until 1469 according to the agreement, later on it was given back to the rule of Lusignans. The city had lost its importance as a center of trade during the period of Genoese, who had used Famagusta as a military district.
Over the years, Famagusta Castle went under the control of Roman and East Roman Empires, Latins and Venetians until it was finally captured by the Turkish troops on the 6th of August, 1571 during the War of Cyprus in Selim II period (1566-1574). The castle was under the Turkish rule until 1878, then the control of the castle was handed over to England in 1878 with the whole control of the island.
The Republic of Cyprus gained its independence in 1960 and Famagusta became one of the important tourism sites of the island. In 1974, Famagusta went under the control of Turks after the Turkish peace operation. Moreover, Famagusta also became one of the most important harbors, tourism and university education centers in Cyprus both in 1975 Cyprus Turkish Federation and also in 1983 Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Sea, Sand and Sun
Cyprus enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate, with mild winters from December to February, and a short autumn and spring.
Having a warm climate throughout the year, Cyprus has always been a world renowned Mediterranean island. The island has golden beaches that meet with its unique blue sea. Cyprus is not only a popular holiday spot for Turkey but also for many other countries all over the world. Being mentioned in the myths of ancient periods, the island has witnessed the birth of Aphrodite and managed to keep its charm until today.
Cost of Living: Compared with most countries in Western Europe, the cost of living in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is low. Locally produced products or those produced in Turkey are generally cheaper than those grown or produced in Europe.
Banking Services for the Public: Commercial banks in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus are of two kinds. There are banks which are branches of large organizations based in Turkey, and those which have branches only in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Transactions can be carried out in all leading currencies. The Central Bank of Northern Cyprus is responsible for the monetary, credit, and exchange policy, and acts as bankers to the government.
Security: Famagusta Police Headquarters is at the service of the community 24 hours a day.
Health Services: Famagusta State Hospital and three private hospitals are open with their Emergency Services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Transportation Airlines: Regular flights from İstanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Adana and Antalya Airports in Turkey to Ercan Airport are available. The fligh lasts 70-75 min. from Istanbul or Izmir, 50 minutes from Ankara, and 30 minutes from Adana or Antalya.
Airport: The only international airport, Ercan State Airport, is near Nicosia, the capital of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. It is only a 40 min. drive to Famagusta.
Boats (Ferries): There are regular ferry services from Kyrenia and Famagusta to the harbors of Mersin, Antalya and Taşucu.
Driving: The left lane is used in traffic and international traffic rules are applied. The two-lane road connecting Famagusta to Nicosia and then to Kyrenia gives drivers ease in driving, and the roads between major towns and villages are reasonably good. Transport to the university with a car from Nicosia and Kyrenia takes 40 minutes and 60 minutes, respectively.
Car Rental: This service is available in all major towns and some hotels. An international and valid driver's license is required. Rental cars have red number plates. Online car rental services are also available.
