Lefkara, the village of lace and silver
On the southern slopes of the mountains, between Larnaca and Limassol, lies Pano Lefkara: one of the most beautiful villages of Cyprus. Narrow, colourful lanes, stone houses with flower-filled courtyards and small workshops everywhere, where two centuries-old crafts are still very much alive.
Lefkaritika: world-famous lace
The handmade lace of Lefkara — the lefkaritika — is on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. According to tradition, Leonardo da Vinci bought an altar cloth here in 1481 for Milan Cathedral. In the lanes you can still see women working on their embroidery in their doorways, just like generations before them.
Silver and village life
Lefkara is also the silver village of Cyprus: in the small workshops, filigree jewellery and silverware are still made by hand. Wander the lanes without a plan, browse the little shops and settle down on a terrace on the village square for a coffee and a slice of lemon cake.
Niki's insider tip
In summer, go towards the end of the afternoon, around 6 pm, when the temperatures become more pleasant and the light on the stone facades is beautiful. Combine Lefkara with the neighbouring village of Kato Drys for a complete picture of traditional mountain life.
