Larnaca’s countryside is set to gain a new digital attraction after the Larnaca and Famagusta chamber of commerce and industry (Evel) signed a contract with PwC Cyprus for the creation of an artificial intelligence-powered holographic avatar under the REVIVE project.

According to the company, the project will bring to life “Marikkou pou ta Lefkara”, inspired by the tradition of Lefkara embroidery, alongside Leonardo da Vinci, in an effort to present the region’s cultural heritage through interactive digital technology.

The initiative forms part of the European REVIVE – Interreg Euro-MED programme and is expected to combine artificial intelligence with holographic imaging to offer visitors a more immersive cultural experience.

The digital installation will be hosted at the Larnaca environmental centre, where visitors will be able to interact with the avatars and access information on local attractions, cultural sites, traditional arts, businesses, photographic material and other digital content.

According to the announcement, the project is also intended to strengthen the visibility of the Larnaca countryside while creating new opportunities to promote the local economy and support small businesses.

The action is being implemented under REVIVE, short for Development of innovative community-based business models for the revitalisation of inland areas in the Mediterranean, in which the Evel has been participating as coordinating partner since January 2024.

The programme has a total budget of €2.38 million and brings together nine partners from seven Mediterranean countries, Cyprus, Italy, Greece, Spain, Slovenia, Croatia and North Macedonia.

The chamber said it would continue investing in initiatives that combine new technologies with culture, with the aim of supporting sustainable local development and creating new opportunities for rural communities.