It's no surprise that silversmiths are renowned in Lefkara. Everything here has its traditions and history. Among the village's treasures is a silver cross, a long-standing and highly valued relic dating back to the 14th century. This cross was created for the local bishop, Olvin, appointed by Cyprus's Frankish (Latin) rulers during the Lusignan dynasty, the heirs to the Jerusalem throne from the Crusades.
The cross holds a special significance because it contains fragments of the True Cross. These fragments were brought to Cyprus by Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, who discovered the cross in an ancient water reservoir in Jerusalem near Golgotha. The fragment travelled with her to Constantinople, but during a storm at sea, the ship found refuge in a natural harbour between Limassol and Larnaca, still known today as Vasiliko, meaning "royal." From there, Helena travelled to Lefkara, and thus the cross fragment found its way to this village.
This guide will introduce us to Larnaca and Lefkara, a seaside city and mountain village revealing Cyprus's essence. Larnaca is an ancient city with a rich history of Greeks and Turks, where the Church of Saint Lazarus—one of the most important sanctuaries of the Orthodox world—coexists with the Mosque of Umm Haram, the fourth most significant mosque in the Muslim world.
We will stroll through the streets of Larnaca, admire the murals, and experience the charm of this Mediterranean city undergoing renewal.
Next, we will visit perhaps the most famous village in Cyprus—Lefkara, renowned for its unique embroidery and silver craftsmanship traditions, and the church that houses a relic of the True Cross on which Jesus was crucified. Beyond these significant historical sites and events, you will be captivated by the charm of Cyprus, its peaceful nooks, enduring traditions, and serene atmosphere.
Cyprus is embodied in its mountain villages, where its heart and soul reside.