EXPLORING A CHRISTMAS FOLK TALE
Cypriot Folklore
This particular Cypriot folktale encompasses a rich tapestry of myths and stories that are not only tied to superstition but also to religion. One such fable is the tales that surround the mystical creatures known as the Kallikantzaroi. Although various interpretations of these mythical creatures exist, they all describe a small, semi-invisible, dark goblin-like creature that has a hankering for the CYPRIOT HONEY PUFFS, also known as LOUKOUMADES.
MISCHIEF & MAYHEM
A Christmas Story
These creatures are known to live deep inside the ground and only come to the surface at night during the 12 days between Boxing Day on the 26th and EPIPHANY on January 6th. If they do not receive their favourite treats, they enter houses in search of them and cause mischief and mayhem. They will play tricks on people, and they will do this by hiding things. They spoil food and wreak havoc by breaking things.
HONEY PUFFS
Loukoumades
The creatures often receive peace offerings in the form of their favourite HONEY PUFFS to keep them at bay. These usually come in the form of LOUKOUMADES that are freshly prepared just before the sun goes down. They are then left outside the front doors and windows of each house every night throughout the 12 days when the Kallikantzaroi are active.
LEGENDS
Local legend
According to local legend, anyone born during the time when the ‘Kallikantzaroi’ roam, form a connection to them. It is said that these people can sense the ‘Kallikantzaroi’ and grow restless when the creatures are nearby. They are also the only people that can see or talk to them.
