Due to the declaration of the village as an “Ancient Monument” and “Controlled Area” by the Department of Antiquities, many buildings, especially within the core of the settlement layout, are declared either as Ancient Monuments Schedule A (meaning they are state-owned), or Ancient Monuments Schedule B (meaning they are privately owned but any interference with the building must comply with the Department’s rules and guidelines). That was imlemented by the Dept. in order to protect the buildings from being destroyed or altered resulting in the deterioration of the architectural character of the settlement. As a consequence, many private owners are reluctant to exploit their properties, unsure of the status quo.

As part of the wider effort to revitalize the village and stimulate the local economy, the CUT team in collaboration with the Dept. and the Community Council of Fikardou, have been working on creating incentives for these people to either renovate their houses and live there or rent them out to people who would potentially reside in Fikardou. Alternatively, given the increased touristic activity in the village, they can use the building to open up shops or rent them out to willing shopkeepers. The pan-communal gathering, aims to summon village residents as well as property owners that may not reside in Fikardou, in order to inform them of these incentives and opportunities.

The date chosen to hold this event is the day the local church celebrates the patron Saints of the Church, Apostles Peter and Paul, when many Fikardians come to attend the ceremony.