Handmade Christmas Ornaments from Lefkaritiko embroidery and handmade baskets adorn the Christmas tree at the entrance of Larnaca International Airport, inspired by Cypriot tradition.
The Lefkaritiko embroidery is a type of needlework whose fame is intertwined with the long historical and cultural heritage of the island of Cyprus, named after Lefkara, the village from which it originated, and dating back to the 14th century. For centuries, this fine craft has been handed down from one generation of skilled embroiders to the next. In 2009, it was inscribed on UNESCO’S Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Basketry / straw-mat making is craftsmanship that has not changed over time. There are very few tools required, and the raw material is reed, wicker, or straw. Different types of baskets can be made, such as the large “kofina” or woven baskets used to collect and transport agricultural produce, the linen baskets, and the baskets used by the fishermen.
The Christmas ornaments were specially made to decorate “Hermes Airports Christmas trees” by 25 young people who participate in the educational programs that the Cyprus Handicraft Service is organizing at Lefkara to exceed the time limits and pass the know-how into the younger generation of artisans.
The aim is to give passengers a varied image of our country’s culture, Hermes Airports said. In addition, next to each tree there is an inscription with a QR code where the visitor can scan with his mobile phone and go to a specially designed website to learn more about the technique of lefkaritiko and basketry, the Cyprus Handicraft Service and more.
Source: Cyprus News Agency