Skarinou: Village Culture, Chapel and Donkey Farm

Skarinou brings together stone village architecture and religious heritage with seasonal experiences involving donkeys and farm products. When planning your stay, it helps to distinguish between these themes: the village scenery and its springs tell the story of the village’s historical character, while the chapel, farm and Information Centre each have their own focus. This can help you decide how to approach the destination, depending on whether you are especially interested in village history, religious traditions or an organised excursion.

Village Character and Historic Sites

Skarinou lies on the slopes of hills and is characterised by stone houses and narrow lanes. The Old Spring (Palía Vrýsi) is in the traditional village centre. This distinctive stone-built monument is considered an important part of the village’s history and architectural heritage. Visitors interested in its building style and the village’s historic character will find a tangible connection to the village’s past here.

The Old English Spring (Palía Anglikí Vrýsi) is also a place of historical interest. It preserves evidence of local history and cultural memory. The largest piece of Lefkaritiko embroidery is also associated with Skarinou; it is listed in the Guinness Book of Records.

Agios Georgios Chapel and Religious Tradition

The Agios Georgios Chapel is situated among houses in Skarinou. The 19th-century icon dedicated to the Saint has been preserved to this day and is kept in a special icon stand beside the iconostasis. The chapel therefore centres on a specific work of art and a named religious site.

Services are held here twice a year: on the Monday of Renewal Week after Easter and on 23 April, the feast day of Saint George. During these services, the holy icon is carried in a procession. These two dates give the chapel a regular place in Skarinou’s religious calendar and provide a clear point of reference for anyone interested in local traditions.

Excursions to Golden Donkeys Farm

Organised excursions to Golden Donkeys Farm in Skarinou are offered for all ages from April to October. They include a farm tour and the opportunity to interact with donkeys. During the excursion, visitors can see how traditional Cypriot cheese and halloumi are made. They can also sample farm products such as donkey’s milk and organic olive oil.

The farm visit offers a different focus from the village’s historic sites: here, the emphasis is on the donkeys, the farm tour and the production and tasting of farm products. Since excursions are offered seasonally, check current booking availability and the arrangements for demonstrations and tastings before your trip.

The Environmental Information Centre of Larnaka Mountainous Area is also located in Skarinou. It offers exhibitions, a library and handicrafts; visitors can look through microscopes in a laboratory. The centre provides another way to explore the area, alongside its village architecture, chapel and farm. If you are planning a visit, check the current visitor arrangements in advance.

Park and Festival

The Park of Cypriot Nature is outside the village, in the Skarinou area. The park has a kiosk with drinking water, as well as swings and seesaws for children. Before planning a visit, check whether the facilities are currently available for use.

The Spring Donkey Festival in Skarinou aims to introduce visitors to donkeys and showcase traditional handmade products. It adds its own cultural focus to the area’s other donkey-related and handicraft themes.

Discover more destinations: Anafotia, Melini, Odou, Agios Theodoros, Zyyi, Mazotos, Kato Lefkara, Chirokitia.

For the broader travel overview: Larnaca.