Cyprus: In the Shadow of the Crescent Moon

Cyprus is not merely an island in the Mediterranean with a pleasant climate, beautiful beaches and exciting churches. The island also contains one of the most complex unresolved conflicts in Europe, is a field of tension between East and West, and has been home to some of the worst human rights violations in recent European history.

This book outlines the history of Cyprus, emphasizing the post-WWII era and the Turkish invasion. Plenty of original photos document the stark contrast between the Christian south and the culturally looted north, where over 500 churches stand empty and abandoned, most in advanced states of decay.

The book also provides an overview of the problems as seen from the perspective of international law. Apart from extensive photographic evidence, the book also cites a wide selection of original sources, including the long-secret Council of Europe report from 1976 concerning human rights violations.

President of Cyprus, Demetris Christofias, adds the following:
"I have to admit that I was deeply touched by your profound interest and evident concern in the sad but true story of the plundering and pillaging of our cultural and religious heritage which has been playing out in the northern occupied part of our island over the best part of the last forty years. I find your will and perseverance, despite the obstacles, to document this crime against civilization for all to see admirable, and as a Cypriot, I wish to thank you wholeheartedly for it." (Nicosia, January 17th 2012)