Cyprus is divided into six districts (Greek: επαρχίες eparchies; Turkish: kaza), whose capitals share the same name. The districts are further divided up into municipalities.
Nicosia is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Cyprus. It is also the capital of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, a state only recognised by Turkey. Located on the River Pedieos and situated almost in the centre of the island, it is the seat of government as well as the main business centre. Nicosia is the capital of the Nicosia District. Nicosia is designated a Beta World City - by the Globalization and World Cities Study Group and Network.
The island of Cyprus has been influenced by its geographic location on the crossroads of Africa, Europe and Asia. Many antique objects excavated on the island bear witness to these ancient cultures which have created Cyprus’s own unique identity.