Source: Express.co.uk
The World Tourism Organisation has named the best tourism villages in the world. The villages were ranked based on several important factors. The best villages scored highly when it came to social and environmental sustainability as well as their tourism work.
The famous painter Leonardo Da Vinci is thought to have visited Lefkara at the end of the 16th century.
One beautiful village in Cyprus was ranked as one of the best tourism villages in the world. Pano Lefkara scored highly in all the categories and is an exciting destination for British tourists.
The enchanting village takes its name from the Greek words ‘lefka’ which means white and ‘ori’ which means mountains. Lefkara is the home of traditional Cypriot embroidered lace which is a UNESCO heritage item.
Tourists visiting Lefkara will find many small shops selling beautiful embroidery in the traditional style. They may even be able to watch local residents as they work on the intricate lacework, known as ‘lefkaritika’.
Wandering the village’s limestone-cobbled streets offers a snapshot into traditional Cypriot life. Many tourists choose to visit Pano Lefkara’s Museum of Traditional Embroidery and Silversmith.
One visitor said on Tripadvisor: “This is such a remarkable museum that links parts of Cypriot history directly onto this beautiful village of Lefkara. The silver work on display is amazing.”
Another said: “Brilliant small museum, a most interesting and unusual exhibition of Lefkaran culture and historical artifacts.”
The famous painter Leonardo Da Vinci is thought to have visited Lefkara at the end of the 16th century. It is said that he purchased a large ornate tablecloth from locals and offered it to the Milan Cathedral in Italy.
The village also has stunning architecture and tourists can also visit the Timios Stavros Church which dates back to the 14th century.
Just one kilometer from Lefkara, Terra Oliva is an organic olive farm that allows tourists to explore its groves. One visitor said: “Beautiful place and wonderful people! Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. The owners are extremely nice and welcoming. I will be visiting again!”
Lefkara is famed for ‘taro’, a delicious dish of baked lamb and potatoes, which many restaurants serve. Tourists can also buy beautiful lace or silver goods to take home at one of the village’s gift shops.
