Issue Eight: Cyprus Living



Each year at the beginning of May the residents of Cyprus mark the festival of Anthestiria – a celebration of spring, nature and the bountiful flowers of the Island.

In fact Cyprus has 1,950 species of flowering plants, 140 of which grow nowhere else but on the island!

A parade of floats and dancers carrying fresh flowers travel through the coastal towns of Paphos and Larnaca providing a truly stunning spectacle for tourists and residents. Of course as with all festivals in Cyprus there are numerous stands selling local foods and drinks. Delicacies such as "Souzoukko" a favorite at Cyprus festivals, is made by dipping strings of nuts in heated grape juice until the confection solidifies while "Loukoumades" are deliciously syrupy doughnuts popular with adults and children alike.



Add to this a glass or two of locally produced wine or perhaps even a small glass of potent Zivania and the festival is soon in full swing.

With May temperatures lounging at a balmy twenty six degrees many visitors will enjoy viewing the parades from a cool vantage spot in the Mediterranean Ocean!

The festival of Anthestiria dates back to ancient Greek times when feasts were organised in Athens every four years to honour Dionysus, the god of wine and parties, with the word "Anthestiria" deriving from the Greek word "anthos" meaning flower.

Philippou Properties are experts on Cyprus life with a friendly team residing on the Island.

For more information about Cyprus for relocation, investment or retirement please contact us on freephone 0800 917 1917 or email info@pp-cyprus.com.