It rather depends which person you ask, a Greek Cypriot or a Turkish Cypriot! (For a brief, independent history of Cyprus and the origins of the dispute, see http://www.cyprus44.com/holidays/history.asp.)

Looking forward, one of the main issues affecting the 'reunification' talks between the two leaders of the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus is the question of land ownership.

When the island was divided in 1974, many families had to flee from their homes and relocate to the opposite side of the border. Many Greek Cypriots moved from north to south, and many Turkish Cypriots moved from south to north. In the years since, both sides have claimed land formally owned by pre-1974 residents. Due to action in the European courts known as the Oram case, focus has tended to be on former Greek Cypriot land which has been sold on in North Cyprus and developed, although exactly the same process happened in south Cyprus; much of the land under Larnaca airport, for example, was previously owned by Turkish Cypriots.

In the current climate of constructive talks between the leaders, relaxed border crossing, and the growing popularity of holidays in North Cyprus, most residents of Cyprus, both north and south, are hopeful a solution will be agreed.