GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The village of Pedoulas is located in the Troodos mountain range, at an altitude of 1,100 meters, in the region of the Marathasa Valley. Surrounded by lush forests and orchards of cherries and other fruit trees, it is a popular destination for those seeking peace and natural beauty. The village is 75 kilometers from Nicosia, 55 kilometers from Limassol, and 85 kilometers from Paphos.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND RELIGIOUS HERITAGE

Pedoulas has deep religious roots, with its main monument being the Church of Archangel Michael, which dates back to 1474 and is considered one of the most impressive Byzantine monuments in Cyprus. The church is part of the route of the 10 Byzantine Churches and is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. The area also hosts the Byzantine Museum of Pedoulas, which houses artworks and sacred icons from the local churches.

MUSEUMS AND CULTURE

Pedoulas has two active museums that operate year-round.

One is the Folklore Museum, which focuses on the everyday life of the local farmers, traditional crafts, education, and traditional professions. Visitors can discover the customs and traditions of the village through exhibits, including tools and objects from the past.

The other is the Byzantine Museum, which showcases the long Byzantine heritage of Pedoulas, displaying items from the 13th to the 20th centuries.

NATURAL BEAUTY AND TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE

Pedoulas is surrounded by dense forests, lush landscapes, and natural springs that offer a sense of tranquility. The village’s natural springs are believed to offer longevity and are popular spots for visitors. The tourism infrastructure includes traditional mansions that have been converted into guesthouses and hotels, and the cool climate makes Pedoulas an ideal destination for summer vacations.

HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT

Pedoulas has a rich history, beginning with the Frankish period and continuing through its development during British rule and into the present with numerous independent services. This is why it is famously known as ‘the chief village of Marathasa.’

Thus, it is a developed tourist destination visited by thousands of tourists from around the world.

VILLAGE NAME

Based on an international study presented by the late protopresbyter Father Charalambos Kourris at an international Cyprological conference, three possible origins of the name ‘Pedoulas’ were suggested:

  • Pedion (plateau – flat ground) and ‘las’ (laos - people). The flat area visible when observing the village from below, situated between the peaks of Pitharas and Fithkia (Kykkos road). (The most prevalent view)
  • "Bet El" (place-house of God in Hebrew, and the toponym "Bethel" in the Bible) when persecuted Jews arrived in the area and named it because they liked the location. (This theory seems less likely)
  • It originated from someone who made sandals (pedilas), and thus it was named Pedoulas. This version is less likely to be true, as although the village was known for its leather tanning and processing, due to the cold climate, there is no indication that they were involved in making sandals (open-type footwear).

FOLK ARCHITECTURE

Pedoulas maintains its characteristic mountain folk architecture, with traditional houses and buildings that combine natural beauty with local construction techniques.

SIGNIFICANT CHURCHES AND CHAPELS

Pedoulas is home to several important churches, such as the Holy Church of the Proodou of the Holy Cross, the chapel of Archangel Michael, which is recognized by UNESCO, the church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross with the largest cross in Cyprus, measuring 25.3 meters, and more.
The village also boasts a large number of small chapels, prayer rooms, and monuments.

EDUCATION IN PEDOULAS

Education in Pedoulas has a long history, with schools operating since the 17th century. The first mutual teaching school was founded in 1852 and operated until 1911.

The six-year Pedoulas High School operated from 1913 until 2004 and served as the foundation for the education of all of Marathasa, offering high-level education and nurturing generations of individuals with ethical values and Greek-Orthodox education.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES

Pedoulas is popular for agritourism, offering fresh air, traditional food, and tranquility in nature. It has various infrastructures, such as a police station, health center, ambulance service, gas station, fire station (under development), meteorological station (under development), two active museums, sports facilities, tourism facilities, accommodations, an environmental center, interactive tour boards, and more. In short, it has everything a developed mountain community needs.

Pedoulas is a unique destination that combines natural beauty, historical heritage, and a rich religious legacy, offering visitors unparalleled experiences in the heart of Cyprus’ Troodos mountains.