The historic building was restored and given a new lease of life as a showcase for the region’s traditional handicrafts, creating a landmark tourist attraction in the heart of the town centre. Its prime location on Zinonos Kitieos street; opposite the Pierides Museum-Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation, and parallel to the Foinikoudes promenade, makes it ideal for tourist visits.
Visitors to the centre can watch experienced artisans skilfully creating their folkloric crafts, including several that are on UNESCO’s ‘List of Intangible Cultural Heritage’, such as Lefkaritiko hand-embroidered lace; Athienou lace; Livadia basket weaving, and other traditional crafts that are distinctive to Larnaka region’s rich, cultural heritage.
Represented at the centre are the Cyprus Handicraft Service, the municipalities of Athienou, Livadia and Lefkara, as well as a pottery workshop. The building itself dates back to the second half of the 18th century and is one of the most historically significant buildings in Larnaka.
The centre is open to the public with free admission from 10am – 5pm, Monday to Saturday and can also host individual visits, organised groups and school visits.
The new, live Multispace of Creativity and Culture will further enrich Larnaka city’s tourist offering, alongside future projects that include the new Municipal Market and Zouhouri Square.
