Cyprus is one of the larger islands of the Mediterranean (9283 km2). In ancient times, the fertility and richness of its soil were noted by the classical authors (Stra. Geogr. 16.6.5; Am. 14.8.14). The name Kyprus is almost certainly derived from cuprum since bronze was exploited on the island from the most remote times.
It formed part of the ancient Mycenaean and Achaean civilizations. Between 449 and 411 BCE, the island was under the influence of the Phoenicians. Alexander the…