Fikardou village, in the Pitsilia area, is one of the most interesting villages to visit since it was declared an ancient monument in 1978, while, in 1987, it was awarded the Europa Nostra Prize. Luckily,it is slightly less than an hour drive from the capital so it forms the ideal day trip to Nicosia’s outskirts. There, you can admire some carefully preserved 18th century houses which are famous for their remarkable wood carvings and folk architecture while two of these where converted into museums for younger generations to become familiar with the villagers’ past rural life. You can also visit the Machairas Monastery, which is less than a 15-minute walk away. Despite the village’s small size, there is a lovely stone built taverna, “Giannakos Tavern”, that serves Cypriot meze on a daily basis. If you prefer to have a weekend break and seize the opportunity to visit some other amazing surrounding villages, you can stay at the bed and breakfast Fikardou Boutique Suite.