It is not always possible to see the traditional Lefkara lace-making in action. Still, on the corner of this souvenir shop that has stood unchanged for over a hundred years and is owned by one family, you can witness Lefkara women sitting and embroidering right on the street. According to local tradition, the history of this embroidery dates back to 1191-1571 when some noble ladies from the West taught women of Lefkara. According to the same source, Leonardo da Vinci visited Lefkara in 1481 and took one of the embroideries to the Milan Cathedral. The British, who settled in Cyprus in 1878, discovered that the embroidery, which the village women had been making for their daughters' dowries and to decorate their homes, could be a profitable source of income.
The main features and necessary materials for making Lefkara embroidery include:
- A small pillow called a "plume"
- Irish linen
- French thread
- The same pattern on both sides, so there is no difference between the front and the back
- Geometric designs consisting of cuts and raised elements (kofta, anevata)
As is often the case with great success and growth, there come downsides, such as the pursuit of profit and a detachment from roots. Many Cypriots left Lefkara and moved to cities, and even more emigrated, initially joining Cypriot communities in Turkey, the Middle East, and later in Europe. Only now is everything coming to a natural balance, where the village's value—tranquillity, purity, and authenticity—is highly appreciated among those fleeing the hustle and bustle of large cities.
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.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
