Amidst Lefkara's enchanting beauty lies a poignant sight: abandoned homes with intricate doors and wrought-iron grilles leading to central gardens where lemon trees still bear fruit. These elegant homes once reflected the wealth of their owners. The population exodus from Pano Lefkara between the 1930s and 1970s left many dwellings empty. Tourism has had minimal impact on traditional architecture, with many houses remaining untouched and uninhabited, preserving the village's historical integrity and evoking a sense of nostalgia.
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.