Venue: TBC – Hotel conference room in Paphos city

Introduction to the course, presentation of the 6-days course agenda and ice-breaking activities to get-to-know each other.
Presentation and registration by all participants to the ‘Emphasys KA1 platform’ which includes all the necessary information regarding the practical arrangements of the course. The focus of the first day will be on exploring interactive activities the terms of culture, cultural awareness, historical culture, cultural identity and their importance for promoting common European values.

Venue: TBC – Hotel conference room in Paphos city

Introduction to the cultural, social and historical heritage of Cyprus and getting to know the island’s map. Cy-Around will give all participants a virtual tour of the island of Cyprus before exploring the rich historical area of Paphos: the ‘Tombs of the Kinds’, ‘Paphos Castle’, visiting ‘Adonis Baths Water Falls’, ‘Aphrodite Baths’ and reaching out to the Natural Park of Akamas for a lifetime experience in the protected area. Through interactive activities, participants will explore the history of the area and the natural beauty of the park while learning about the turtles’ protection plan, Cyprus national symbol and flower ‘kiklamino’ etc.

Accommodation: Limassol City (TBC)

Venue: TBC – Hotel conference room in Limassol city

Discovery of the most vibrant city of Cyprus, Limassol and its surrounding wine villages through the eyes of the locals. Investigation of how urbanisation has affected its character, how the national port attracted foreign business and how multi-culturalism influenced native young people. Reflection on the ‘going back to our roots’ initiative that led a number of people to move to rural areas. Exploration of the wine routes of Limassol district, before learning about the vine growing and wine producing expertise of the locals in the traditional village of Omodos. Comparison between the traditional/ancient way of pressing grapes with the modern one, trying your luck with grape picking, learning about the different types of wines, listening to the history of the oldest wine of Cyprus ‘Commandaria’ before tasting the local products. Exploring the traditional bakery and getting to know the historical and religious part of the village with the oldest monastery of the Holy Cross.

Venue: TBC – Hotel conference room in Troodos mountains

Getting ready for a hiking experience in the traditional villages of the Troodos mountains, that will provide you with the opportunity to re-visit the old customs and habits of senior citizens. Learning about the value of an inter-cultural or political debate in the traditional ‘kafenio’ where democracy has its roots and experience the traditional ‘games’ bringing the two generations closer together. Discovering the green heart of Cyprus – Troodos mountains! Through a treasure hunt, you will explore the geology of the area and its natural beauties. Climb on the highest mountain and observe the landscape of the other side of the island while searching for ‘agrino’ the symbol of Cyprus (a rare wild sheep found only on the island of Cyprus).

Venue: Emphasys Centre

Exploring the only divided capital in the world, Nicosia and experience how the old and modern worlds are blending together creating unity and diversity. Meeting the local youth for a walking/ bike tour in the old city surrounded by the Venetian Walls, experience the division of the island, as well as the multi-cultural nature of the inner city. Getting to know about the flow of refugees, the issues of migration and integration in the local community while exploring the services provided to them through the European funding programmes. Tasting the Cypriot gastronomy through an outdoor practical activity that will introduce you to the secrets of Cypriot cuisine.
Now it’s time to explore what participants have learned so far from the Greek language.

Venue: TBC – Hotel conference room in Ayia Napa

Exploring the west side of the island which is the most popular tourist zone with sandy beaches and crystal clear seawater. Visiting traditional small companies exploring natural herbs, producing local products and explore the ‘fishing’ market as sustainable employment. Experiencing the feeling of the ‘Ghost Town’ through the eyes of locals and reflecting on the principles of human rights, respect and democracy. Recap and conclusion of the course. Course evaluation and recommendations. Award of certificates to the participants and final practical arrangements.