The village of Livadia is a large community found on the north side of Larnaka city (15 minutes away), where the settlement of Tridaton used to flourish. Archaeological research in the area has discovered findings belonging to different historic periods. The village took its name from the Greek word for fields (livadia) due to the flat area of grassland with running waters and rich pasture.
Livadia village basketry has been recognised as part of the village’s unique heritage with its inclusion on the UNESCO National Intangible Cultural Heritage List, whilst the village has also opened a Basketry Museum that incorporates basketry lessons alongside its exhibits, an initiative designed to preserve and showcase Livadia’s proud folkart.
In olden days, the women spent whole days of the year paring and splitting reeds, in order to make various basketry products, and Livadia is the only place on the island where ‘psatharkes’ (traditionally used for roofing) are made. Although there are no longer an abundance of women still practicing the craft, the municipality is ensuring its preservation with the creation of an interesting Basketry Museum, whilst the craft is also included on the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage List.
Courtesy of the CTO
