Lefkaritika is the name of a distinctive style of lace that originated in Lefkara, Cyprus, around the 14th century. The designs often feature geometric patterns inspired by ancient Greek and Byzantine motifs, as well as the embroidery styles of Venetian courtiers who ruled Cyprus from 1489. Lefkara lace gained international fame when Leonardo da Vinci visited Cyprus in 1481 and purchased a lace tablecloth for the main altar of Milan's Duomo Cathedral.
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!
