ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base
Turkish Administration of Cyprus
Turkish Administration of Cyprus
History
The Turkish Administration of Cyprus was established on December 27, 1967, following the outbreak of intercommunal violence between the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot communities. The administration served as a provisional government until October 1, 1974, when it was replaced by the Autonomous Turkish Administration.
Establishment
The Turkish Administration of Cyprus was proclaimed by the Turkish Cypriots in response to the growing tensions and clashes with the Greek Cypriots. It was initially known as the Provisional Turkish Administration of Cyprus (VTVZ) until April 21, 1971, when it was renamed the Turkish Administration of Cyprus.
Geography
The administration covered a total of 39 enclaves scattered throughout the island, including the Turkish part of Nicosia, Kyrenia, Kokkina, and Galatia. These enclaves were divided into ten districts (Sancak), each with its own governor (sancaktar). The districts were:
* Lefkoşa
* Serdarlı
* Mağusa
* Larnaka
* Limasol
* Baf
* Yeşilırmak
* Erenköy
* Lefke
* Boğaz
Structure and Governance
The Turkish Administration of Cyprus was a centralized government, with each Sancak having its own governor. The administration served to unite the Turkish enclaves under one central leadership.
Legacy
The Turkish Administration of Cyprus played a significant role in the history of the island, serving as a precursor to the Autonomous Turkish Administration established in 1974. Its legacy continues to be felt today, with many of the administrative divisions and structures established during this period still in use.
References
Note: The references section will be added later, as it requires external sources to be cited.