The ‘Women’s Association of Rural Larnaka’ (WARL) is the heart and soul of gastronomic tradition in Larnaka region, preserving and promoting the local customs, products and recipes for generations to come. 

Set up in 2004, the non-profit organisation is a collective of over 400 women from 22 small rural and mountainous communities of Larnaka region that promotes the entrepreneurship of its members and volunteerism.

Outgoing President of WARL – Anna Kosma – passes the mantle this autumn but leaves behind a successful legacy that she is proud of: “The presence of the association has been defining in many areas. Our many achievements over the years include participation in EU programmes; training and supporting our members in every step of their business; securing the protected geographical indication (PGI) status of traditional pasta, and the awarding of mountainous Larnaka communities as European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN).”  

You can see WARL in action via different activities: 

Heartland of Legends Enogastronomy Workshops 

The Deputy Ministry of Tourism has curated a programme of free workshops across the island up until the end of November, which includes traditional workshops by WARL members. See the programme here. 

Local Producers Market 

The Sunday Local Producers Market takes place in Agios Theodoros village at WARL’s premises during cooler months and is a plastic free, open-air market with local produce and products. The market is often combined with cooking demonstrations, children's crafts and seasonal activities and entertainment. More information here. 

Cookery Workshops 

WARL members demonstrate their unique gastronomic traditions, including handmade pasta, terebinth pies, Halloumi cheese and various sweets in organised workshops for groups. The demonstrations also take place at festivals, events and at the Local Producers Market. 

Festivals 

The annual Festival of Tradition & Culture takes place at a different Larnaka region village each October (since 2004; this year at Anafotia village) and is one of the island’s main traditional festivals. WARL members also help organise and take part in other festivals throughout the year, such as the Zygi Fish Festival, Kataklysmos, Vegan Fam Festival, Traditional Street Food, and the Christmas Village.