THE FRIDAY MARKET AT THE CARPENTERS RESTAURANT
Markets have been a way of life in Northern Cyprus for centuries, in fact, the island owes its cultural development to the traders who passed through the island buying and selling fine hand made wares. The one day markets have become part of the Cypriot lifestyle with an atmosphere that is busy and friendly, good prices and a variety of wares.
One such market well worth a visit is set in the lovely garden of “The Carpenters Restaurant” in Karaoglanoglu, just west of Kyrenia. Here all sorts of people gather on a Friday between 10am and 1pm to sell the things that they have made at home. As well as silk cocoon panels, hand painted trays, crochet necklaces, beautiful hand made soaps, you can also find a large selection of original cards, exquisite pieces of jewellery, original paintings, ceramics as well as Cyprus books, CD’s, DVD’s, colourful beach wear, casual evening clothes, sun hats and lovely pashminas. Volunteers from the Turtle Conservation have a selection of souvenirs on sale and information about the work that is done in Northern Cyprus. They can give you details about visiting the conservation centre at Alagadi and going along to watch the nesting and release of turtle hatchlings. There is also a stall of bric-a-brac and home baked dog biscuits to cater for the local doggie population! There is a selection of home made preserves, chutneys, honey, local cheese and mountain herbs. It is a joy to browse around the crafts, treat yourself to a trinket or two or find a special little gift to take home; prices are excellent and all very affordable, the quality is high. Because the market is held at a restaurant, you can have a specialist coffee, piece of home made cake or muffin, a light lunch, something more substantial or just relax with a cool drink. The garden is a joy and offers welcome shade in a peaceful atmosphere even on the hottest summers’ day. The restaurant has been open for about 7 years and was built by three young Cypriot brothers whose father was a carpenter, hence the name. The brothers Ercument, Mehmet or Kemal will make you most welcome; Pertev, their father, is always at the restaurant and you will be sure to enjoy your visit.
“Carpenters Craft and Farmers Market” is open every Friday, 10am to 1pm, and can be easily found just west of the village of Karaoglanoglu. From Kyrenia go through Karagoglanoglu, just past Fatisa Supermarket on the right you will see the sign to the restaurant. There is plenty of car parking space. Do not worry if you do not have transport, the local minibus service runs every few minutes from Kyrenia and the route passes by. Just ask the driver to stop when you see The Carpenters sign.
For information call Carpenters, Tel: 822 2251 or 0533 865 4585
or Maureen Hutchinson, Tel 721 3013 or 0542 854 4329
Maureen Hutchinson
