LIMASSOL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS COMMANDARIA

The Limassol Region Tourism Development and Promotion Company (ETAL) is a partner in the cooperation project 19.2.4 “ANCIENT FLAVOURS”. The project is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) through the LEADER local programme of the Limassol Development Agency.

With the aim of showcasing both the history and the value of Commandaria, ETAL is organizing a special seminar for professionals in the tourism and hospitality sectors on 28 November 2023. The seminar, held at the NYX Hotel, includes:

an overview of ETAL’s work in the Commandaria region by Mr. Tony Antoniou, President of ETAL,

a presentation on the Ancient Flavours project by Mrs. Maria Stylianou, ETAL Director,

a lecture titled “Commandaria: Cultural Heritage of Cyprus” by Mr. Mimis Sofokleous, Director of the Pattichion Municipal Museum – Historical Archive – Research Centre of Limassol,

and an analysis of the Stages of Commandaria Production by Mr. Markos Zambartas, Oenologist and Member of the Cyprus Winemakers Association.

Furthermore, as part of the project, ETAL is carrying out online and radio campaigns to promote Commandaria as an essential drink for the festive table. It is also promoting Commandaria-based recipes that are sure to impress the public.

During the month of October, Commandaria was promoted at themed events such as the Wine Festival in Agios Konstantinos (15 October) and Oinofest in Lofou (20–22 October 2023).

Through social media, ETAL highlights the 14 Commandaria villages—Agios Mamas, Louvaras, Zoopigi, Agios Konstantinos, Doros, Monagri, Lania, Agios Georgios Sylikou, Sylikou, Apesia, Gerasa, Kalo Chorio, and Kapileio—showcasing their landmarks and the reasons travellers should visit to experience firsthand the production stages and history of Commandaria.

Partners involved in the Ancient Flavours project include:

the Limassol Region Tourism Development and Promotion Company (ETAL),

the Commandaria Producers Group,

the Community of Kapileio,

viticulturist Antonis Antoniou,

and the traditional tavern “Avli tou Themistokli.”

Within the framework of the project “ANCIENT FLAVOURS”, ETAL participated in Oinofest in the village of Lofou from 20 to 22 October 2023, promoting Commandaria to the public.