Xylofagou's unusual monument!
On 13th October 2021 the village of Xylofagou unveiled a very controversial and unusual addition to their surroundings in the form of... A giant Spud!
Deliberately elongated, the potato statue has been placed to celebrate the area's famously fertile Red soil which is perfect for growing the delightful Cyprus potatoes from the area.
The long shape is a reference to the particular type of potato the area is known for - The 'Spunta' potato (Seed potato) which is longer than a regular potato.
The potato effigy has captured the attentions of media around the world, with many media outlets mocking the phallic state's shape and comparing it to many things including parts of the male body!
However, Xylofagou's mayor isn't discouraged by these negative comments, instead saying:
The potato sculpture is built to pay homage to the main product of the ‘red soil’ villages in the area, ahead of the ‘Potato Festival’ to be held in the coming weeks.
“I wanted this potato to become a point of reference in the community, and I am glad as the defamation taking place is actually the best advertisement for us.
“I am sure that all those who criticize the work will come here to be photographed with the potato,” said Tasou.
He said the idea of creating a homage to Xylofagou’s most famous expert, its potatoes, came after seeing the Big Fish monument in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
The giant potato statue is said to have cost the municipality €8000, but his plans for the area do not end there! After the potato festival in late October 2021, Tasou plans to have seating installed, and vendors offering fried potatoes for tourists to purchase and eat.
I'm 2022 he also hopes the village will enter the Guinness Book of Records with over 800kgs of potatoes fried!
The cache is a small bison at the moment until the area is developed further. Please be careful of muggles and ensure it is hidden out of sight.