8509 Magazine - 2024 edition - Magazine - Page 44
CULTURE IN CYPRUS
Cyprus is an island rich in culture, boasting
many traditions that are still celebrated
today. With such a detailed history and
having been ruled by many an empire,
the Cypriots have emerged proud of their
heritage - a true passion that makes a
lasting impression.
Among many of the Cypriot traditions we
have chosen to highlight food, dance and
music to give you a peak inside the culture
in Cyprus:
Food: If there’s one thing you are
unlikely to get in a good Cypriot taverna,
that’s a small portion. The Cypriot diet
largely consists of meat and salad and
involves appetizers, delicacies and
sweets. Mezes epitomize the Cypriot
cuisine and are not for the faint hearted;
pitta, dips, salad, meats, cheeses, fish
and more! Sweets in Cyprus are typically
honey-soaked pastries, or sweet fruit
preserves. Bon appetit! See page 33
for further recommendations.
Dance: Dancing is a big part of life
and still not deemed as ‘uncool’ for the
younger generation; dancing is the
backbone of festivals, bouzouki clubs
& weddings. Traditional dress is often
worn. Look out for the dancing that
involves yielding a sickle, sieve or glass.
Music: Traditional Cypriot folk music
is very similar to Greek, and is typically
played on violin, bouzouki, accordion,
Traditional Dancing
lavouto & boulgari and oud. ‘Tsiattista’
singing accompanies music - these are
poetic improvisations representing
everyday life situations.
Cyprus Nights
The best way of getting a real taste
of Cypriot culture is to go along and
enjoy one of the Cyprus Nights that
take place throughout the summer
months. Cypriots love to show off
their traditions to the tourists and we
guarantee you will leave your Cyprus
Night fully entertained, full-bellied
and having experienced a lovely
insight into the country’s traditions.
It’s a fantastic way for children to
learn about a foreign way of life too,
especially as children are such an
important part of life in Cyprus.
Recommended Cyprus Nights:
· Platea Tavern & O’Vrakas Taverna in
Pissouri on Fridays.
· Bouzoukia at O’Vrakas Taverna in
Pissouri on Wednesdays.
· Kouklia Village Square on Thursdays.
Culture / Dance / Food / Music
44
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