Lefkara village

Lefkara is one of the most well-known villages amongst the European countries, as its reputation has preceded to Europe through the Cypriot Folk Needle craft called ‘Lefkaritika’, which is also known as embroideries. This famous technic of embroideries started way back in the 14th century.

Where it is, and where the name comes from

The village is located in the mountain ranges of Larnaca and is situated at the foot of Troodos mountains at the South East region. The village is split into Pano Lefkara and Kato Lefkara which basically translates to Upper Lefkara and Lower Lefkara due to its position of the two parts (up and down). As for Lefkara’s name it is derived from the Greek words ‘Lefka Ori’ which means white mountains.

Lace, silver — and a Leonardo legend

The village is also world renowned for its silver making and also its architecture. This craft of silversmith started in the late 18th century and is still growing popular by every century. There is also a Legend that Leonardo da Vinci had visited Lefkara in 1481 and during his visit he bought a lace alter cloth which he later then donated to the Milan Cathedral.

Walking the village

This beautiful village has so much to offer that you will definitely come back for more. The narrow winding streets paved with cobblestones make for a wonderful walk in the village where you get to see all the traditional houses full of bright and vibrant flowers on the outside in pots! Noticeable fact about the village is that all houses have interesting and unique doors but all have a terracotta type roof.

What to see and do

You can experience wine tasting, visit the Folklore museum, walk to the village square where you can see cafes, restaurants, shops to buy lefkaritika and silver but also the village church. There is a fountain here too and you can also see the old olive mill in the village.

The August festival

To top everything off, this village has an amazing festival in August where there is music, dancing, food and even a crafts exhibition.

Lefkara at Christmas 🎄

The village is not only a summer place. Each year through the Christmas period Lefkara turns into one of the island’s prettiest Christmas villages — the stone lanes and little squares strung with lights and decorations, the workshops and cafés warm against the winter chill.