**Thousands Attend Let’s Go Troodos 3 at Presidential Residence**
**Troodos, Cyprus** – On Sunday, the picturesque Troodos mountains welcomed thousands of visitors for the third annual Let’s Go Troodos event, held at the presidential residence. This year’s celebration showcased the rich local creations, products, flavors, and traditions of mountainous Cyprus, drawing attendees eager to explore the cultural heritage of the region.
The presidential residence, a historically significant building constructed between 1879 and 1880 by Sir Garnet Wolseley, the first High Commissioner of Cyprus, served as a fitting backdrop for the event. Originally designed as a summer headquarters for the British High Commissioner, the residence evolved into an administrative center where much of the government operated during the hotter months.
Visitors had the unique opportunity to tour the premises of the residence, which is not typically open to the public. The event featured a diverse program of experiential workshops, allowing attendees to engage with traditional Cypriot arts and crafts. Workshops included demonstrations on palouze (a traditional sweet), weaving, loom work, traditional cooking, silk production, mosaic making, perfume crafting, and traditional music.
The atmosphere was further enriched by live music and performances of tsiattista, a form of Cypriot folk poetry, creating a vibrant and authentic setting that celebrated the island's cultural heritage. Education Minister Athena Michaelidou participated in one of the workshops, emphasizing the event's educational value.
First Lady Philippa Karsera Christodoulides highlighted the initiative behind “Pame Troodos,” which aims to open emblematic buildings across Cyprus for public access. The goal is to provide spaces for entertainment, education, and the promotion of environmental awareness. She noted that the event reflects the current government's commitment to enhancing rural areas and increasing visitor numbers to villages and festivals throughout Cyprus.
Deputy Tourism Minister Costas Koumis expressed the desire for traditional Cypriot flavors to gain wider recognition, particularly among the younger generation. He stressed the importance of providing opportunities for local craftsmen to showcase their products to a broader audience.
Mountains Commissioner Charalambos Christofinas also spoke on the significance of the event, emphasizing the government's aim to revitalize mountain communities. He noted that supporting local producers and the primary sector is crucial for the sustainability of those living and working in mountainous areas.
In addition to its cultural focus, this year’s event had a strong social component, with a portion of the proceeds being donated to the Eleousa Nursing Home in Agros. This initiative underlines the event's commitment to community support and welfare.
As the sun set over the Troodos mountains, the Let’s Go Troodos 3 event concluded, leaving attendees with a deeper appreciation for the rich traditions and flavors of Cyprus, as well as a renewed commitment to supporting local communities and artisans.