Silk is a natural protein fibre, some forms of which can be woven into textiles. The protein fibre of silk is composed mainly of fibroin and is most commonly produced by certain insect larvae to form cocoons. The best-known silk is obtained from the cocoons of the larvae of the mulberry silkworm.
The production of silk originated in central China in the Neolithic period. Silk production remained confined to China until the Silk Road opened at some point during the latter part of the 1st millennium BC, though China maintained its virtual monopoly over silk production for another thousand years.
Silk, and particularly the art of cocoon embroidery, is a significant part of Cypriot cultural heritage. Historically, Cyprus was a key player in the silk trade, with its silk in high demand, especially during Venetian and Ottoman rule. Silkworms appeared in Cyprus during the Byzantine period. The island climate was perfect for both these mulberry-feeding insects and the mulberry tree.
In the 12th century, Cyprus was one of the leading suppliers of quality silk fabrics to Europe. The Venetians, who were great connoisseurs of silk, are to thank for this. Silk production flourished even during WWII. The island manufactured silk parachutes for the Allied Air Forces. The decline of silk production in Cyprus began around the end of the 1950s. The local population was rapidly impoverished, had to pay exorbitant taxes, and struggled for independence against the British colonialists. Moreover, cheap synthetic fabrics appeared on the island.
Lapithos village was historically a significant centre for silk production. Kythrea was also a major centre for silk production, both villages having plenty of mulberry trees. While the Kythrea silk had a white colour, the Lapithos silk had a more yellowish colour, but both were highly regarded and sought after.
© Costas and Rita Severis Foundation
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