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The charming village of Lefkara

When it comes to travel, Lefkara offers more than just a getaway. Known worldwide for its traditional lacework and silver craftsmanship, Lefkara has been recognized as one of the top tourist villages by the United Nations World Tourism Organization. But what exactly makes Lefkara so unique?

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). Its name comes from the Greek words "Lefka Ori," meaning "white mountains."

Ancient Roots: The Earliest Evidence of Inhabitants
Archaeological excavations confirm that the area around the village of Pano Lefkara has been continuously inhabited since the Neolithic era, reflecting the region’s rich history. The first historical mention of Pano Lefkara under its modern name appears in the will of Saint Neophytos, who was born in 1134 in the nearby village of Kato Drys, during the Byzantine Empire.

The Secrets and Traditions of Lefkaritiko Lace
The story of Lefkara’s lacework spans several centuries. According to legend, Leonardo da Vinci himself purchased a lace tablecloth here for the Milan Cathedral. Today, the art of creating "Lefkaritiko" lace is recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, underscoring its cultural and historical value. Lefkara lace represents intricate, hand-crafted designs passed down through generations and embodies Cypriot culture and lifestyle.

Unique Silver Craftsmanship
Lefkara’s silver pieces attract collectors and tourists worldwide. For over a century, the secrets of traditional silver crafting—jewelry and unique silver vessels—have been preserved in the village. These pieces skillfully blend elements of Eastern and Western cultures, admired for their beauty and fine craftsmanship.

Historical Significance and Recognition
With recent recognition by the United Nations World Tourism Organization as one of the best tourist villages, Lefkara has reaffirmed its unique heritage. This is a place steeped in history and tradition, perfect for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.

What to Visit
Lefkara isn’t only about art; it also boasts incredible views of the scenic Cypriot mountains and quaint streets lined with ancient houses. Start your tour by visiting local workshops and shops where you can not only purchase lace and silver but also observe their creation. A visit to the Lefkara Museum, which preserves a collection of artifacts that tells the village's history and crafts, is also highly recommended.

You’ll be charmed by the cozy village of Lefkara. We recommend taking your time and spending a few days here to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful village life.

And for those want a ready-made plan, we've prepared a great itinerary around Lefkara.

Stop by a local coffee shop for a cup of Cypriot coffee, have lunch at a traditional taverna, and take your time — there’s no rush. In Lefkara, time slows down, allowing you to live in the moment and forget about the stresses and worries of daily life.