Embassy of Cyprus

After leaving the British embassy we took a bus ride down Massachusetts Avenue towards a number of embassies closer to Dupont Circle.  Our first stop was at the building that houses the Cypriot embassy.

Cyprus is an island with a long history.  Over the years it has been controlled by many different governments.  The island occupies a place in Greek mythology and after that time was controlled by a number of ancient empires including Assyria, Egypt, Persia, Alexander the Great, and eventually Rome.

During the Middle Ages it was a Byzantine possession for many years until it was taken over by different powers which included the Knights Templar for a time until it ultimately came into the possession of the Ottoman Empire.  Most recently it became a British colony.  The government only controls the southern portion of the island due to the self-declared Turkish republic of North Cyprus.

When we got to the building the line was moderate but not too long.

In case you weren't sure where you were this plaque would remind you.

Inside the line continued across the front room.

The American, Cypriot, and European Union flags were on display.

We headed up stairs as soon as we could.

I'd love to travel to Cyprus some day, especially to see ruins from antiquity like this.

A number of food samples were available upstairs.

Amy enjoyed trying quite a few different things.

The samples of national dress on display were certainly beautiful.

We also got to try a sample of a drink but I don't remember what it was.

We got to enjoy a music group for a while before we headed back downstairs.

Once outside we headed to the next embassy!  If you want to see a few more photos check out this album from our visit.

~Matt