'Turkish troops fired on our hotel, the invasion had begun': 50 years after Cyprus was torn apart

In July 1974, Colin Smith was the Observer's correspondent in Cyprus. Five decades on, he recalls paratroopers dropping from the skies and a grand hotel under siege Free Paphos Radio broadcast it in both Greek and English. "Greetings Greek Cypriots," he began. "You know the voice you hear. You know who is speaking. Iam Makarios. The coup of the junta has failed. I was the junta's target, and as long as I am alive the junta will not succeed ... Put up resistance in every way. Don't be afraid." Fi...