Cyprus to launch Easter villages project in 2027

The Cyprus Council of Ministers has approved a new initiative led by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism to establish 'Easter Villages' starting in 2027. The project aims to boost tourism in rural, mountainous, and border areas by selecting ten municipalities located along the 'Heartland of Legends' route. These designated communities will host week-long interactive programs running from Holy Thursday to Thomas Sunday. The activities are designed to highlight Cypriot heritage, including traditional baking workshops, folk craft demonstrations, and the decoration of the Epitaphios. Participants will also have access to guided hiking tours, lessons in Cypriot folk dances, and educational sessions on Byzantine music and iconography. This initiative follows the success of previous Christmas village programs and seeks to distribute tourism revenue more broadly across the island.