Editing Greek Cypriots (section)

===Medieval Cyprus===
{{see also|Cyprus in the Middle Ages}}
[[File:Helena Palaiologina and daughters.jpg|thumb|upright=0.7|Byzantine princess [[Helena Palaiologina]], [[List of Cypriot royal consorts|Queen consort of Cyprus]]]]
The Byzantine era profoundly molded Greek Cypriot culture. The institution of Greek Orthodox Christianity soon became an integral part of Greek Cypriot identity during this period, and its legacy persisted under foreign domination throughout the succeeding centuries. Since Cyprus was never the "final goal" of any external ambitions – insofar as destroying its civilisation and citizenry did not become a military objective, or necessity – the island simply fell under the dominion of whichever power controlled the Eastern [[Mediterranean]] region at the time.

Greek Cypriots did, however, endure oppressive rule under both the [[Lusignan dynasty|Lusignans]] and successive [[Venetian Republic]], from the 1190s to 1570. King [[Aimery of Cyprus|Aimery]] – whom succeeded his brother, [[Guy of Lusignan]], in 1194 – was known for being particularly intolerant of the Orthodox Church, and saw Greek Cypriot land appropriated for use by newly-established Latin churches in major towns on the island. In addition, oppressive taxation was imposed upon locals by occupying forces, with tax collection conducted, by proxy, under administration of the Latin churches.