NICOSIA, Cyprus: A new casino resort touted as the largest of its kind in Europe has opened its doors in Cyprus, aiming to transform the east Mediterranean island nation into a year-round destination for luxury tourism, officials said on Tuesday.

The 600-million euro ($659-million) City of Dreams Mediterranean is one of the largest development projects ever undertaken in the eastern Mediterranean island nation. The resort boasts a 14-story, 500-room hotel replete with a casino, sporting facilities, a family adventure park, the island's largest pool complex, an outdoor amphitheater, eight restaurants and bars, and a conference center.