Lefkara Village

The History

The village took its name from the purity of the white limestone rocks of the region (Lefka ori – White mountains – Lefkara). The houses in Lefkara, built in traditional architectural style, are always clad with the traditional Lefkara stone which, along with the clay tiled roofs and inner courtyards, give them their distinctive look.

Historical sources reveal that the various conquerors of Cyprus had left their traces in Lefkara. Under Venetian rule (1489 - 1570), Lefkara became a tourist resort for the Venetian noblewomen who, according to a historical version, taught the craft of embroidery (Lefkaritiko lace) to the women of the village. It is believed that during this period, the great Renaissance artist Leonardo Da Vinci visited Lefkara and bought a large tablecloth for the main altar of the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano).

The most significant monument of traditional local architecture in the village is the Church of the Holy Cross, which dates to the fourteenth century and is one of the three churches in Cyprus said to hold a fragment of the Holy Cross

With its rugged hill surroundings, olive trees and almond groves, its fifteen Byzantium Christian churches, the fine traditional and mountainous architecture of Lefkara will create an unforgettable experience for the visitors and a unique holiday escape.
 
The Present

As one of Cyprus’ most authentic and beautifully preserved villages in terms of landscape, architecture, traditional pastimes, agrotourism and heritage, Pano Lefkara is arguably one of the island’s most sustainable tourism destinations.

In the narrow streets cars can't reach. Most of the Village is pedestrianised, so it is very quiet and that makes the time pass slowly and relaxingly.

This charming and well-preserved village is considered to be one of the most important villages in Cyprus. It has been recognized by the UNWTO in 2021 as one of the Best Tourism Villages in the world. With its picturesque cobblestone streets leading to the Square and various local coffee shops (“kafenia”), traditional stone houses, and friendly locals, Lefkara offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Visitors to Lefkara can admire the intricate handiwork of local artisans, who sit outside their shops and homes and painstakingly create intricate lace patterns using needle and thread. The village's lace products, known as lefkaritika, are highly sought after and have graced the wardrobes of royalty and dignitaries worldwide. In 2009, Lefkara lace was added to the UNESCO list of intangible heritage items.

The village is also known for its handcrafted silver handicraft work and has workshops that make jewelry, spoons, censers, crosses, while silver and gold are also used to coat icons and bibles.

Lefkara is also a haven for food lovers, with a delightful array of traditional Cypriot restaurants serving up mouthwatering dishes such as the famous Lefkara ttavas and koupepia (stuffed vine leaves). Indulge in hearty meze platters laden with local specialties, savor freshly caught seafood from nearby shores, or savor the sweet delights of Cypriot pastries and desserts like the famous Lefkara ‘loukoumia’ (Cyprus delights) and ‘sykopittes’ (fig pies).