A LONG-STANDIND CYPRIOT FLORAL TRADITION
PERFECT CONDITIONS
The favourable climate and fertile soil of the island of Cyprus have provided the perfect conditions for rose cultivation for centuries and this had led to the development of a thriving industry centred on the production of rose water, rose oil, and various other rose-based products. The origins of Cypriot roses can be traced back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting that the fragrant flower was cultivated in Cyprus over 2,000 years ago.
THE DAMASK ROSE
One of the most famous varieties of roses grown in Cyprus is the Damask Rose, also known as Rosa Damascena. This particular variety is renowned for its exquisite fragrance and is highly prized for its essential oil, which is used in perfumery, cosmetics, and aromatherapy. The Damask Rose has been cultivated in Cyprus for centuries, with local cultivators carefully tending to the rose bushes, ensuring the highest quality yield.
OTTOMAN RULE
The cultivation of roses in Cyprus reached its peak during the period of Ottoman rule when the demand for rose water and rose oil soared in the Middle East and Europe. The Ottomans recognised the superior quality of Cypriot roses and encouraged their cultivation, leading to the establishment of rose gardens and distillation facilities across the island.
THE RISE OF THE PERFUME INDUSTRY
The rise of the perfume industry in Europe during the 19th century, further boosted the demand for Cypriot roses, with French perfumers sourcing large quantities of rose oil from the island. The expansion of the railways and shipping routes facilitated the export of rose products from Cyprus to markets all around the world, further cementing the island’s reputation as a leading producer of premium rose oil.
A THRIVING INDUSTRY
The commercial cultivation of roses in Cyprus continued to thrive well into the 20th century, with modern techniques and technologies for cultivation helping to increase productivity. New technologies also helped improve the quality of the rose harvest, and even though the industry faced challenges in the face of changing market dynamics and competition from other rose-producing regions, rose production in Cyprus continued to thrive.
EMBRACING CHANGING ATTITUDES
Rose cultivators in Cyprus have embraced changing attitudes and have successfully introduced changing methodologies. As a result, a great deal of rose cultivation is driven today by a growing interest in natural and organic products. The increasing popularity of aromatherapy and wellness practices that only use organic products has also boosted small-scale rose cultivation on the island. Artisanal producers of the flower have embraced traditional methods of rose cultivation and distillation, focusing on sustainable practices, whilst preserving the unique characteristics of Cypriot roses.
THE VILLAGE OF ROSES
The origins and history of Cypriot roses are deeply rooted in the island’s cultural heritage and agricultural traditions and this is celebrated every year by the Rose Festival held in the mountain village of Agros. This festival showcases the beauty and significance of the rose within Cypriot culture and features parades, exhibitions, and cultural events celebrating the island’s floral heritage. The village of Agros is known as the village of roses because it is one of the main producers of the flower and is revered for its rose gardens that produce roses of the highest quality.
A HIGHLY VALUED PRODUCT
Cypriot roses today continue to be a highly valued product and are generally admired for their exceptional quality and fragrance. Perfumers, cosmetics manufacturers, and connoisseurs from all around the world export Cypriot rosewater and oil on a large scale, and it has become an industry that positively impacts the island’s the economy. Cypriot roses continue to flourish and evolve, and their legacy as a symbol of love, beauty, and resilience on the island remains as vibrant as ever.
