Cyprus family research

[rmain78]

Hello..

Does anyone know how to go about researching into family history for Cyprus (Greek) families.  Is there a website, or a records office you can contact?  Bearing in mind the transcripts will be in Greek! 

Any information would be appreciated.

Thank you

[Fide et Fortitudine]

Hi Rmain

I can confirm that no census data or BMD registers for the Republic of Cyprus are published online.  You would have to visit the island in person, and know the exact location of residence, dates and full names of your ancestors.  You would also need a Greek speaker/reader/translator to assist you. 

Most births/marriages/death registers of the Republic will be held by the relevant village or parish church, but depending on the time period you are looking at, some might by held by the British government if they pertain to 1925-1960.  If pre-1925 (Ottoman period) then it gets very hard indeed.  If you're looking into a Greek family born or resident in Northern Cyprus before the 1974 war, then you would need Turkish-speaking assistance resident in the TRNC. 

You could also try posting relevant family info on Cyprus-related genealogy forums, and someone might come forward.

http://genforum.genealogy.com/cyprus/
http://www.cyprus-forum.com/
http://www.looking4kin.com/group/cyprus-genealogy
http://surnames.meaning-of-names.com/genealogy/cyprus/
http://support.genopro.com/Topic7655.aspx