Sykopetra Village

The Community of Sykopetra is a mountainous village built on the eastern foothills of the Mountainous part of the Pitsilia Region of the Lemesos District. It is situated on the borders of three districts, of Lemesos, Nicosia and Larnaca. The community is approximately 30 kilometres away from Lemesos, 45 km from Nicosia and 65 from Larnaca. 

The community of Sykopetra consists of the village of Sykopetra, which is built on an altitude of 800 metres, and the housing of Prophet Elias, which is built on an altitude of 950 metres.

Historical Background  
Systematic archaeological research has not been conducted in the area. However, findings that have come to light certify the existence of a settlement in the area ever since the period of the Kingdoms of Cyprus (1050 B.C. – 725 B.C.). In fact, in an area near the village there is evidence proving the extraction of copper.

Toponyms and other evidence substantiate the historical correlation of the village’s identity to its existence ever since the Byzantine period and up until the ottoman domination.   

The Great Cyprus Encyclopedia, referring us to Mas Latrie, notes that during the Frankish period the village had been conceded to the Order of the Templars, whereas later, in the 14th century, the Order of the Hospitaller Knights took over the village.

Naming
The naming of the village is a legend by itself. It has been preserved up until the present from generation to generation, linking the village’s historical existence to the Kingdom of Tamasos.

Legend has it that a beautiful princess named Nafsika was travelling towards her kingdom in Tamasos. While she was riding her horse, it slipped at the big rock standing above the village and the princess was killed. According to the legend, the horse’s footprint is still evident today

fter this incident, the village was named ‘Nafsikopetra’ in memory of the princess. With the passing of time, the village was renamed into Sykopetra, since this naming was more easily pronounced.