Chris N.Tsolakis Ltd

The rose bush was imported in Cyprus from Damascus in Mesopotamia, that is why it is also known as Rosa Damascena with the thirty petals. At the dawn of the 20th century, some of these plants could be found in the yard of the church of Virgin Mary in the village of Agros. During that period, the church was the monastery of the Greater area of Agros. In 1917, the late Nearchos Clerides (uncle of the President of the Republic of Cyprus Glafkos Clerides) was appointed as a teacher in his native village of Agros. He was, inter alia, the person behind the idea to expand the cultivation of the rose bush with the aim of producing rose water. This would contribute to a substantial improvement of the standard of living of the local community. He therefore founded the 'Pupils Association for the Dissemination of the Rose bush', aiming at expanding the cultivation of the plant. More specifically, the members of the Association were obliged to plant and look after fifty rose bushes every year. Those who planted more than fifty roses received a financial reward. One of the pupils of Nearchos Clerides was Nicodemos I.Tsolakis, who showed great interest initially for the cultivation of the rose bush and later on for the purchase and marketing of rose water. In 1948, Nicodemos I. Tsolakis cultivated his own rose plantations and began producing his own rose water. In 1987, one of his sons, Christakis Tsolakis, took over the business. He worked with even greater enthusiasm,building new, modern installations and improving the cultivation and the method of gathering of the roses. Today, the famous rose bushes of the Tsolakis family produce the following exquisite products, known all over the world: Rose liqueur-Rose brandy-Rose wine Rose aromatic oil(Rose essential oil)-Face cleansing perfume-Rose perfum Rose sweet-Aromatic candles-Room perfum-Rose water These products are produced with the traditional method. For reasons of perfect hygiene, they are bottled in clay pots, made in the specially designed area of the factory and are safe for both our health and the environment. The factory is open every day to offer you some unforgettable moments. Let us be your guide around its unique areas and show you what Cypriot hospitality is all about. In May, we welcome volunteers for the gathering of the roses. It is a unique experience. If you are interested, do not hesitate to contact us.