Archaeological evidence suggests human settlement on the island of Cyprus during the Neolithic period.

In 1500 BC the Mycenaean Greeks arrived on the shores of Cyprus; They established city-kingdoms, shaping the island's political landscape and laying the foundation for its rich cultural heritage.

Cyprus became a Roman province in 58 BCE. This period introduced Roman customs and governance, leaving an architectural legacy that still stands today.

In 330, with the division of the Roman Empire, Cyprus became part of the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantine era brought forth a flourishing of art, culture, and religious influence, shaping the character of the island of Cyprus further. Between 649 and 965 the island was governed by the Arabs, which left some important religious marks on the island. For the next three centuries Cyprus was regained by the Eastern Roman Empire ushering a period of relative stability and development.

Richard the Lionheart sells Cyprus to the Knights Templar, who, in turn, sell it to Guy of Lusignan, establishing the Lusignan Kingdom of Cyprus. Lusignans have significantly contributed to the cultural heritage of the island through their gothic monuments.

The Venetians gained control of Cyprus after the death of the last Lusignan king. The Venetian period contributed to the island's military architectural heritage and cultural exchange.

In 1571, the Ottoman Empire conquered Cyprus, marking another significant chapter in its history. The Ottoman influence shaped the island's religious structure, society, and governance and the cultural heritage of the island.

In 1878, Cyprus was leased to the British Empire by the Ottomans, leading to its strategic importance during World War I from 1914 to 1918. In 1925, Cyprus became a Crown Colony of the British Empire. British left their mark on the island their mark though their administrative buildings.