The ancient and rich history of Cyprus has affected the architecture and among modern buildings the true diamonds can be found. On the island there are remains of settlements since the Neolithic, Bronze Age tombs, ruins of ancient buildings (including the Byzantine basilica), medieval castles, churches and monasteries. Mosques and caravansarai reminiscent of the times of Ottoman rule, the British left buildings in colonial style. Today, villagers in the mountainous areas of the island, still live in old stone villas in Cyprus.
Ancient architecture.
The Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans and Byzantines, who ruled Cyprus, left behind numerous buildings. Archaeologists have found the city of Kourion, Amathus, Kition, Solo, Salamis and Paphos with its temples, theaters, basilicas, palaces and terms. Among the ancient ruins the fragments of old walls, sports facilities and ancient Cyprus villas can be found. Some ancient Roman amphitheater are still used for various performances and festivals.

Palestra at Salamis is surrounded by the colonnade and statues. Here the training of athletes and sporting events took place.
Medieval architecture.
For 300 years, when the Crusaders and Lusignan ruled Cyprus, many churches, including the rich cathedrals in Famagusta and Nicosia were built. Charming churches, chapel, the Gothic cloisters and castles appeared. Venetians which prevailed on the island (above 80 years), created a gorgeous ring of defensive walls around Nicosia and Famagusta, whose power defeated attack of the Ottoman Empire armies for almost a year.

Angeloctisti Church in Kity is one of many churches, which are hidden behind the walls of the magnificent Byzantine mosaics and amazing frescoes.

Bellapais, with the ruins of Gothic abbey, attracts tourists with its impressive architecture. Every spring the International Music Festival is held.

Muslim architecture.
When the army of Selim II occupied Cyprus, new buildings, including Turkish mosques (often minarets were attach to the Gothic cathedrals), Turkish bath, caravansarais and covered markets.
Buyuk Han in North Nicosia is an example of the caravansarai of the Ottoman Empire, with prayer hall in the yard.

Hala Sultan Tekke is the holiest place for Muslims all over Cyprus. It consist of the mosque and the mausoleum with Umm Haram tomb- Mohammed’s aunt.

Colonial Period
British rule in the XVII-XIX centuries was marked by the advent of colonial-style architecture in churches, administrative and public buildings. Representatives of the British administration were fans of the Greek classical style. On their orders, projects and their funds many buildings in the neoclassical style were created.

The school of Faneromeni in South Nicosia is in the neoclassical style.
In1852, when it was founded, it was understood that in this way students would be linked to their ancient Greek roots.

The Museum of Piridis Foundation in Larnaca is a typical example of colonial architecture, with shaded balconies, on the thin, graceful pillars.
Modern Architecture
After gaining independence in Cyprus in 1960, the architecture of public buildings such as city hall, offices, banks and hotels, has become modern and functional. For the most part these buildings were built in Limassol, which has become an international business center of the island. However, most modern buildings are of no architectural value.

Modern architecture is represented by the Limassol office buildings of glass and concrete, concentrated in the eastern business district of the city.
Traditional Houses

For centuries, villas in Cyprus, especially in its mountainous areas, were built of stone, which allowed them to keep cool in summer and warm in winter. Although some new buildings mimic the traditional style, most of them are constructed of cinder blocks and concrete.