Five generations of untold Cypriot history

A series of short documentaries, showcasing the the making of traditional Greek Jewelry and how these are connected to the history, culture and nature of Cyprus. An island with more than 11,000 years of history. The first three films are now available at Kalopedis.com

these documentaries are the best way to showcase an important aspect of the Cypriot culture and heritage. Not only to those who have never had the chance to visit Cyprus but also to further educate the regular visitors and local residents.

Larnaca, Cyprus (PRWEB) May 8, 2008 -- As part of its 120-year anniversary celebrations, 'Kalopedis Jewellery' has produced a series of short documentaries, which showcase the artistic processes for the making of traditional Greek Jewelry and how these are connected to the history, culture and nature of Cyprus. An island in the Mediterranean with a civilization that dates back 11,000 years and is a popular tourist resort for its weather, unique culture, archaeological sights and Christian heritage. The first three documentaries are now available at Kalopedis.com

The Kalopedis family artisans as they are making a Greek religious icon.

As Michael Kalopedis, the fifth generation member of the family's business, says: "these documentaries are the best way to showcase an important aspect of the Cypriot culture and heritage. Not only to those who have never had the chance to visit Cyprus but also to further educate the regular visitors and local residents."

In the first documentary on 'Cypriot Filigree Designs' while showcasing the making of handmade filigree jewelry, the film it also includes scenes from the mountainous village of Kakopetria, one of the most beautiful villages in Cyprus. Filigree is a method that includes the twisting of fine wires of gold or silver and is an art form, which reveals Middle Eastern and ancient Greek influences. It is also very interesting to see how these traditional methods are being adopted in contemporary society to produce modern jewelry designs.

Additionally, in the 'Passing down the Byzantine tradition' documentary, George Kalopedis explains the three stages that each religious silver icon undergoes during its creation. As he notes: 'every item is unique, we craft every one completely by hand and no matter how much we try no two icons are alike'. George's father, Michalakis, adds that although there are certain standard procedures to be followed when creating icons there is a certain artistic freedom permitted when decorating an icon, it is here 'where every artisan reveals his talent. Every icon has its own design from the artist's imagination. This is what it makes it an art'. The third documentary of the series gives an insight look into the symbolism of Ecclesiastic Art while more documentaries for the series are to soon become available to the public.

The Kalopedis family holds the oldest family tradition in the making of Greek jewellery, ecclesiastic and decorative art on the island of Cyprus. Launched in 2005, Kalopedis.com is now the leading online destination for quality and authentic Greek jewelry. This family business provides a unique personal touch to online shopping and as part of the 120-year anniversary celebrations, 'Kalopedis Jewellery' is also giving the chance to all its customers to win a free vacation to Athens, Greece, or to the island of Cyprus. As Michael Kalopedis, says: 'This is a way for us to give back to all our customers. Those who have supported our Greek jewelry website in the last 4 years, those who visit us in Cyprus each year during their vacations and our local customers'.

For more information, visit: www.kalopedis.com

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