Filenews 23 January 2026 - by Natasha Christoforou
Who in Cyprus does not know the phrases that accompany the famous Marikkou that Lefkara, which is invoked by those who want to ironically tell someone that he is evasive or that he renounces his responsibilities.
What not everyone knows is that she is a real person and according to the testimonies of residents of Lefkara she was involved in embroidery during the 19th century. As it is said, in fact, she was the first woman of Lefkara, who travelled all over the world to sell her embroidery.
The Larnaca Famagusta Development Agency (ANTEL) decided to bring this legendary figure to life, through a holographic Avatar that will use artificial intelligence (AI), which will guide visitors to mountainous Larnaca. This excellent idea is, in fact, in the process of being implemented, since ANTEL has announced the relevant tender and interested parties can submit bids until January 28.
Marikkou and Lefkara will be located at the Larnaca Mountainous Environmental Information Center in Skarinou and will give information about the countryside of Larnaca, with historical events and various destinations, as well as digital experiences.
According to what is stated in the terms of the competition, the Marikku Avatar in Lefkara will be a three-dimensional presence with AI technology, which will converse with visitors providing information and instructions. ANETEL's goal is to provide "immersive tourist and educational experiences" which will be achieved through a large 86-inch high-definition (4K) touch screen, with a built-in computer, which will operate the Avatar in real time.
The subject is the cultural heritage of the region, historical events, directions to various destinations and digital experiences such as virtual museums, talking statues, 360-degree tours, etc. The relevant material will also be provided in pdf format, photos and videos with a total length of about 300 pages, which can be uploaded to the Avatar.
The Avatar should be designed to take the form of Marikkus, which is not excluded, as "F" is informed, to be designed with the help of artificial intelligence and based on the descriptions that exist, since there is no irrefutable evidence to show that she is one of the persons depicted in photos that circulate from time to time.
In the terms of the offers, it is also noted that it is necessary to have the possibility of installing it in the area of the Larnaca Rural Environmental Information Center in physical or hybrid form. In addition, there is provision for an Avatar in the form of Leonardo Da Vinci with the same specifications. As it is known, the great Italian painter and scientist of the Renaissance, according to tradition, visited Cyprus in 1481 and found himself in Lefkara, taking with him samples of the famous Lefkara embroidery. According to tradition, he then donated to the Cathedral of Milan a large Lefkara tablecloth, which was laid on the Holy Altar.
