THE VILLAGE OF AGROS
IS TRANSFORMED BY ROSES IN MAY
THE ROSE VILLAGE OF CYPRUS
A HIGH ALTITUDE
Neatly perched across a gorge, at an altitude of 1100 metre, the village of Agros is situated in the region of Pitsilia, in the Troodos Mountains. Amongst other things, it is known for its annual Rose Festival, usually held during the month of May.
THE MERRY MONTH OF MAY
May, marks the time when the surrounding green valleys, of the greater Pitsilia area, are transformed by vivid colour. Sweet-smelling roses come to the forefront among the several fauna that exist on the rolling hills and mountains that dominate the area.
A ROSE INDUSTRY
The village has an entire industry built around these fragrant flowers. This is because the roses grow abundently in the favourable cooler mountain climate of the village. The result is that thousands of these rose bushes bloom in May. The village annually produces approximately 20 tons of roses and the Rose Festival pays tribute to its rose harvest. The event that takes centre stage in the village is normally held over two weekends during May.
A WONDERFUL WAY TO SPEND A DAY IN MAY
Locals tend to come together during the festival to enjoy the natural beauty of the village and its surrounding area. A day trip to the festival is a wonderful way to spend a spring day in May. Once there, visitors will be immersed in a vibrant atmosphere created by the colourful displays of various types of roses. This year’s celebration will once again enable visitors the opportunity to explore the local workshops and learn about the process of rose distillation and sample the local goods produced from this magnificent flower.
A TRIBUTE TO BEAUTY
The bi-weekend festival offers various fun filled activities for the whole family and the churches and local museums remain open during the festival. A community train offers visitors rides through the village for people of all ages. Visitors are also able to take part in various activities, which include rose harvesting and rose processing workshops. Visitors can also stroll around the small market in the village square, sampling and buying all kinds of rose products. Traditional folk dancing along with various musical performances will also be staged throughout both weekends. There will be a number of different food and drink options available at specially constructed kiosks around the village square. Tours around the village’s rose factory will also be available for people interested in learning how rose water and other rose products are created.
ROSE PRODUCTS
It is quite amazing how many products are produced from roses in Cyprus. These include organic cosmetics. Special rose kiosks offer vistors the chance to sample and purchase several of these types of products directly. Other products include water, oil, perfumes, soap, candles, preserves, brandy, liqueurs, sweets, jams, wine, chocolates, hand creams, and even toothpaste all made from roses. Agros is also famous for its locally cured meats, which are usually enjoyed with a shot of zivania at any of the local kiosks.
Information
Festival of Roses
Triantafillou Street, Agros Village
Tel: 25 521 333
The number 50 bus from Laniteio Lyceum in Limassol to Agros Post Office takes approximately 55 minutes to complete its journey
The bus departs three times daily on weekends at the following approximate times
Laniteio Lyceum in Limassol to Agros Post Office
8.17am
12.32pm
5.02pm
Agros Post Office to Laniteio Lyceum in Limassol
7.02am
9.32am
4.02pm
