National Day in Cyprus
On April 1, Cyprus celebrates National Day, dedicated to the beginning of the struggle for independence from the British Empire in 1955.
The holiday is also called the Day of the Beginning of the National Liberation Struggle in Cyprus. On this day, the EOKA organization (National Organization of Cypriot Fighters) began armed actions against British colonial rule, seeking to liberate the island. The conflict lasted for almost five years and ended with the declaration of Cyprus' independence on October 1, 1960.
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History of the holiday
British rule in Cyprus began in 1878 when the United Kingdom gained control of the island in exchange for supporting the Ottoman Empire. However, after World War I, ideas of self-determination and possible unification with Greece gained popularity among Greek Cypriots. This led to the creation of EOKA, which became the main movement for the island’s independence.
On January 15, 1950, the Greek Orthodox Church organized a referendum in which 95.7% of participants voted to end British rule. As a result, Archbishop Makarios III became the main political leader of the Greek Cypriots and negotiated with Britain and Greece about the island’s future.
However, after unsuccessful diplomatic attempts, Georgios Grivas founded EOKA in 1954, which launched an armed struggle against British authorities on April 1, 1955. This guerrilla campaign continued until the signing of the 1959 Zurich-London Agreements, which led to the creation of the independent Republic of Cyprus.
April 1 celebrations in Cyprus
April 1 in Cyprus is celebrated as an official holiday dedicated to the country’s history, culture, and independence. The celebrations include parades, flag-raising ceremonies, cultural events, and fireworks. Church services and commemorative events are also held across the island. On this day, banks, government institutions, and many businesses remain closed.
- Each municipality announces the detailed celebration program on the eve of the holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions about April 1 in Cyprus
Is April 1 a public holiday?
Yes, the Day of the Beginning of the National Liberation Struggle in Cyprus is one of the official public holidays in the country and is a day off for all government employees and many in the private sector.
How is EOKA viewed today?
Today, at all levels of Greek Cypriot educational institutions, EOKA is praised, while its negative aspects are downplayed. Conversely, in the Turkish Cypriot community, students are taught that EOKA was a terrorist organization.
How many Greek Cypriots died in the conflict?
About 250 EOKA members were killed, of whom 134 died due to accidents or violence within the organization. Additionally, 203 Greek Cypriot civilians were killed as a result of EOKA’s actions.
How many British soldiers died in the conflict?
Total British armed forces casualties numbered 360. British losses directly due to EOKA actions amounted to 104 military personnel, 51 policemen of various nationalities, and 26 civilians.
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Author
Born and raised in Yekaterinburg, visited more than 40 countries, lived in the USA for some time, and in 2022, moved to Northern Cyprus. Education: Ural State University (now Ural Federal University), Faculty of Political Science and Sociology. Professional Experience: Since 2008, worked in the…