THE VILLAGE OF VAVATSINIA
KEY SIGHTS & ATTRACTIONS
The village of Vavatsinia is a picturesque mountain village located in the Larnaca District. Situated at an altitude of 850 metres in the eastern Troodos mountain range, it is not only one of the highest villages in the region but is also celebrated for its dense broad-leaved deciduous forests, cool mountain climate, and traditional stone architecture.
HISTORY & ORIGINS
The village’s origins date back to the medieval era, when constant coastal raids by Arab pirates plagued the island. Residents from nearby coastal areas were forced to flee inland, seeking refuge in the nearby mountains. A new settlement was then formed near a riverside creek where a historic mulberry tree grew. Its roots formed a natural water spring that served as a meeting point for travellers traversing the mountain paths. A mulberry tree is known locally as vavatsinia, giving the village its name.
KEY SIGHTS & ATTRACTIONS
Traditional Architecture: The village features winding cobblestone alleys, traditional two-storey stone-built houses, and vibrant flower-filled courtyards.
The Holy Church of Saint George: Built in 1912 in the centre of the village, this prominent basilica was funded by local donations. It stands next to an ancient turpentine tree where locals traditionally light candles.
Church of Panagia Eleousa: Protected by the CYPRUS DEPARTMENT OF ANTIQUITIES, this is the oldest church in the village.
Zivania Distillery: This traditional distillery regularly produces the iconic Cypriot pomace brandy Zivania using traditional methods.
Outdoor Activities: The village is an excellent base for eco-tourism, and the Humming of the Bees trail is an educational and wellness-focused nature trail located in the village. The forested Vavatsinia Camping Site also forms a great base for a range of popular nature-based activities. These include hiking the Almond Tree Trail, which is also known as the Athasia Footpath or mountain biking along the Machairas Cycling Route.
Gastronomy: Food lovers often frequent the traditional village tavernas for authentic Cypriot meze and traditional spoon sweets, which are preserves that are also known as GLYKO.
