Dherynia

Dherynia

Deryneia (Greek: Δερύνεια, Turkish Derinya) is a large village in the island of Cyprus. It is located at the east side of the island, 2 km (1 mi) south of the city of Famagusta (Coordinates: 35°03′N 33°57′E). The population of the village is 5758 inhabitants (October 2011 census) and it consists of a municipality since 1994. Current mayor is Andros Karayiannis. Since 1974, around 75% of the village terrain is occupied by the Turkish army, as well as the 37% of Cyprus and the whole of Famagusta town. The village is 12 kilometers from the famous resort of Ayia Napa. The 'Ghost Town' of Famagusta (more accurately Varosha) can be clearly viewed from the roof of the Cultural Centre, as can the craters from shells fired during the invasion in the field opposite.

The village has agricultural land around it, and is one of the 'Kokkinochoria' (red villages) so called from the red soil. Potatoes are widely grown but the Deryneia is famous for its strawberries and holds a biennial 'Strawberry Festival' - the next due in 2014.