The Republic of Cyprus is situated in the eastern Mediterranean Sea and lies at the hub of three continents: Europe, Asia and Africa. With an area of 9.521 square kilometres, it is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, after Sicily and Sardinia. The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia, which is situated roughly in the centre of the island and is the seat of government as well as the financial centre. All other major cities are situated on the coast, with Limassol second in size and being the main commercial port and industrial centre as well as a tourist resort. Larnaca and Paphos are popular holiday resorts and are both served by international airports. Population The island’s population is approximately 800,000 of whom around 84% belong to the Greek Cypriot community, 12% to the Turkish Cypriot community and 2% to the Armenian, Maronite and Latin minority groups. 2% are foreigners. Climate Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate with approximately 300 sunny days a year. Summer lasts from June to September, with August being the hottest month with a mean maximum temperature of 36 degrees Celsius. During Winter, the weather is mild, but changeable with January being the coldest month with a mean minimum temperature of 4 degrees Celsius. There is snow on the mountains from December to April, whilst the bulk of the rainfall is during the period November to March.