Cyprus Culture & Traditions
In Cyprus culture it is the tradition to offer visitors a glyka (conserved fruit) with Greek coffee and a glass of water.
Backgammon (Tavli) is loved by many and integral to the culture of Cyprus! It’s the Greek version of backgammon (tavli in Greek is board) and very popular with people of all ages.
The game used to be the preserve of only men who could always be seen playing the game and sipping coffee in their local Kafenion.
Times have changed and many women enjoy playing tavli with friends in local cafes. This is especially true in the cities and towns but not so much if you travel inland to remote villages.
The Kafenion (Local Coffee Shop)
In remote villages a kafenion is still looked upon as the gathering place for men. This is where they play card games and enjoy a meal and drink with friends. Fortunately this is not the case in the towns and tourist areas.
There are many places to eat and play tavli such as Fanos Taverna in the old town of Limassol . The food is delicious and not too expensive. Tourists are always made to feel welcome.
In most tavernas, ouzo, brandy and beer are often accompanied by the traditional meze and nuts and crisps. Greek coffee is always available.
Kombolói (Worry Beads)
Kombolói, otherwise know as worry beads, are a part of everyday Cyprus culture.
This is a very popular tradition which Cypriots love. These pretty little beads are used to help relax and meditate on life whilst having a drink or just sitting enjoying the view.
Try it, it really does work! ~ Read More >>
Aphrodite Myths & Legends
The culture of Cyprus is rich in history and the myths and legends of Aphrodite.
The entire town of Kato Paphos is listed in UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage site which also lists nine Byzantine churches in the Troodos area of the island.
Cyprus Festivals
Festivals are an important part of every day life and deeply associated to religion and every day food.
There are many local festivals and towns such as Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca and Nicosia are renowned for their exciting festivals and well worth a visiting.
Traditional festivals such as Carnival, Kataklysmos (Festival of the Flood), ‘Anthestiria’ (the Spring Flower festival) and the ‘Panigiri’ (saint’s name day) are celebrated all over Cyprus.
Greek Orthodox Easter and Christmas are important religious festivals celebrated by in all towns.
The major festival at Christmas is held in Nicosia in Eleftheria (Freedom) Square.
Cyprus Food
As well as being very delicious, Cyprus food is very traditional and most meals have a religious significance.
Many dishes are part of religious festivals and the church plays an important role in every day life.
Cyprus Drinks
As in many other Mediterranean countries Cyprus has a huge cafe culture with open-air cafes and bars.
It’s traditional to sit for many hours and enjoy a coffee, ouzo, a glass of Keo beer or whatever you like and enjoy a game of tavli with friends.
Traditional drinks include the famous Greek coffee which is always served with a glass of ice cold water.
Another popular drink is the frappe which has been drunk for thousands of years, long before the frappe culture hit London and other major cities. Cyprus also has it’s very own cocktail using the delicious local brandy called ‘Brandy Sour’.
Cyprus Culture ~ Music & Rembetika
Cyprus music includes rembetika and popular music which is the same as the music in mainland Greece and the Greek islands.
The bazooki is one of the most popular instruments and integral to Greek and Cyprus culture.
There are many Bazooki Clubs which stay open all night and if you haven’t visited one it really is a great experience especially if a popular singer is performing.