EXPLORING A CHRISTMAS FOLK TALE
Cypriot Folklore
Cypriot folktales often encompass a rich tapestry of myths and stories that are not only tied to superstitions but also to religion and mythology. The story of the Kallikantzaroi, in the context of a Cypriot folktale, is a particular fable that highlights the tales that surround mystical underground creatures that appear during the Christmas period. Although various interpretations of these mythical creatures exist, they all describe a small, semi-invisible, goblin-like creature that has a hankering for CYPRIOT HONEY PUFFS, that are also known as LOUKOUMADES.
MISCHIEF & MAYHEM
A Christmas Story
This Cypriot folktale features creatures that live deep underground for the majority of the year. The Kallikantzaroi only surface at night during the 12 days between Boxing Day on the 26th of December, and EPIPHANY on January 6th. During this time, they find inventive ways to enter houses in search of sweet treats. They then wreak havoc by playing tricks on people and causing general mischief and mayhem. They often hide or intentionally break things, and they also intentionally spoil fresh food. The only way to appease them is by offering them their favourite treats.
HONEY PUFFS
Loukoumades
Kallikantzaroi often receive peace offerings from distraught victims of their behaviour. These come in the form of their favourite HONEY PUFFS that often keep them at bay. LOUKOUMADES are freshly prepared just before the sun goes down, and they are usually 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 when the Kallikantzaroi roam forms an instant 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 who can see or talk to them.
