Well in Geroskipou's main square
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Away from the beach around Paphos
Archaeological Park in Paphos
Away from the island's beaches, there's plenty more on offer in Cyprus. For those of you flying into Paphos, there is of course the huge Archaeological Park and the ancient mosaics that recall another time. You can work up an appetite by walking one of the trails around the Akamas Peninsula (best during the Spring when it's not yet super hot and you can enjoy all the wild flowers in full bloom) or head inland on one of Cyprus' wine routes that are easy to do from either Paphos or Limassol.
But for people looking for a bit of culture, then I'd recommend a trip to Geroskipou for a spot of souvenir shopping and to visit their wonderful little Museum of Folk Art.
Art at the entrance of the Agia Paraskevi church
I was thoroughly charmed by Geroskipou when I visited. Drawn in by the beautiful Byzantine church that is at the heart of the town, it felt far away from the lively Kato Paphos. It was a town that had been suggested to me because of the handicrafts and delicacies (Geroskipou is well renowned for their Cyprus delights!) you can shop for here. But as well as the lovely church, I was taken in by the friendly locals (see my post about meeting them and drinking Cyprus coffee here) and learnt a little more about island life at the Museum of Folk Art (although that's island life long before sun-seeking tourists came).
At the Museum of Folk Art...
Pretty courtyard at the Museum of Folk Art
Located in a historic house that's as interesting as the artefacts within it, the Museum of Folk Art provides visitors with an insight into age-old traditions from weaving to olive oil production as well as a glimpse into what everyday life will have been like for many a hundred years ago.
The museum does a good job of educating visitors about the traditional methods and tools used. Different rooms focus on different practices and there is information available in Greek and English in each.
As well as basket weaving, you can see how their love of the art stretched to textiles as well as bread!
Beautiful textiles
Bread weaving popular for weddings
But the museum is also just a beautiful building to wander around. Listed as an ancient monument, it's fabulous example of Cyprus in another time - but it's easier to relate to than the monuments you'll find within the Archaeological Park.
Weaving tools
Massive earthenware jars
These massive jars were made for transporting oil, vinegar and wine. Generaly not all three together! I reckon that just one of these full of wine would make a pretty good party...
The Museum doesn't take a long time to get around. It's the sort of place that's nice to stroll around and where you can let yourself be transported back in time. Also, you may find you've got a greater appreciation of the lovely things you could pick up when shopping for souvenirs!
Getting here…
Museum of Folk Art
Geroskipou
Tel: +357 26 306 216
Opening hours: daily from 9.30am to 5.00pm during the Summer (16 April-15 September) and daily from 8.30am to 4.00pm during the Winter
Entrance: €1.70 (which is a pretty damn good bargain!)
House and gardens at the Museum of Folk Art
The museum is located in the village of Geroskipou, just 5kms from Kato Paphos (the harbour area). You can get there very easily with your Paphos car hire by following the B6 road towards the airport from Paphos. There is on-street car parking available and the museum is just a short walk from Agia Paraskevi Square, main town square.