eco-friendly — An eco-friendly homage to Cyprus’ past can be found in the most unexpected places, such as a charming antiques shop I stumbled upon during a recent excursion. While many people profess to care about sustainability, the real test often comes down to choices made about what to buy—and whether to opt for second-hand items.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
- For those interested in exploring this unique shop and its offerings, more information can be found on their website.
On a sunny Friday afternoon, I was exploring the scenic route back from Lefkara, a village famed for its intricate lace and silver jewellery. My friend, visiting from afar, was eager to see the traditional craftsmanship of the area. After years on the island, this was my inaugural visit. The beauty of Lefkara was undeniable, yet I felt a pang of sadness as I noticed the dwindling population, a sign of changing times as younger generations seek opportunities elsewhere.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
As we journeyed home, a simple sign reading ‘Antiques’ in both English and Greek caught my friend’s eye, prompting us to pull over. Inside, we were greeted by a veritable treasure trove of recycled objects, from Victorian porcelain dolls and vintage vacuum cleaners to an ornate horse-drawn carriage. This hidden gem, located along the Kornos to Larnaca road, was more than an antiques shop; it was a celebration of history and craftsmanship.
Andreas, the friendly proprietor, welcomed us warmly, allowing us to explore the three floors filled with unique items. Each piece seemed to whisper stories of the past, sparking curiosity about their origins. In the workshop, we met Andros, a master carpenter dedicated to restoring beautiful old shutters for a boutique hotel. Despite some discomfort after a dental visit, he graciously shared his knowledge, showing us impressive machinery used in the restoration process.
Andros’ passion for his craft was evident, and he explained how every piece he works on carries its own history. His son, Panayiotis, later revealed more about their multi-generational business, which began with their grandfather over 40 years ago. Initially a traditional carpenter, he laid the groundwork for a family legacy built on the appreciation of wood and its stories.
Panayiotis shared his father’s philosophy: “We love to pass items to the next generation who will appreciate them.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of their work—preserving the character of historical pieces and ensuring their stories continue to live on. As the family expands their offerings, they now cater to antique lovers worldwide, shipping items to places as far as Spain and the USA.
Their commitment doesn’t end with sales; they actively engage in house clearances and utilise their expertise to assess the value of items brought to them. While not every old object holds significant worth, the family’s discerning eye often uncovers valuable heirlooms, each with a silent story waiting to be told.
One of the standout pieces in the shop was a vintage horse-drawn carriage, dating back to the 1920s. After three years of restoration, Panayiotis used it in his recent wedding, a poignant example of how their work breathes new life into cherished items. “This is a perfect example of how we give objects a second life,” he shared, highlighting their mission to preserve the heart and soul of the past for future generations.
As I left the Antiques Mall, I felt a renewed sense of optimism about the intersection of history and sustainability. In this charming shop, the past was not just something to be admired from a distance; it was alive, celebrated, and intertwined with the present. By choosing second-hand treasures, we can honour the stories of those who came before us and contribute to a sustainable future.
For those interested in exploring this unique shop and its offerings, more information can be found on their website.
