Deryneia Christmas Village

The small town of Deryneia - originally known as Gerynia - is located in the Famagusta district and has a rich historical past. It is possibly the place where settlers arrived on the island after the Trojan War.

It is located in the area of the 'Red Villages', known for their rich red soil, and is the main strawberry-producing area on the island, famous for its juicy and sweet fruit. Visitors to the Strawberry Festival - which takes place every two years - can enjoy free fresh strawberries and its derived products, such as juice, jam, liqueur, and ice cream.

The village's attractions include the Folk Art Museum, the Open-Air Museum of Traditional Professions, and the Cultural Centre of Occupied Famagusta. The village also has several notable churches, including the 15th-century Church of Agia Marina, the Byzantine Church of Panagia (with preserved 17th-century icons), and the small medieval Church of Agios Georgios.

An important religious festival in honour of Saint Modestos takes place every year on 16 December (feast of Saint Modestos), offering entertainment, local food and drinks.

The operating period of the Christmas Villages is from 21 November 2026 to 6 January 2027.

Location

For the programme, click here

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