Deputy Culture Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou emphasized the ministry’s commitment to supporting all forms of art and professionals in their fields during the presentation of the book ‘Aspelia Naturalis’ by Silvio Augusto Rusmigo. The event took place at the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia.
Fact: Nicosia’s Paphos Gate police station has been empty for nearly a decade and is set to undergo a significant renovation project.
The archaeological site at the Paphos gate on the western edge of Nicosia’s walled city is now open for visitors. Excavations in the area uncovered the founding of the Arab Ahmet aqueduct, completing another mosaic in the history of the area. The importance of promoting places such as Nicosia’s Venetian walls is emphasized for the preservation of the capital’s cultural identity. The preservation of cultural heritage is a collective responsibility and long-term fight that concerns everyone.
New cultural routes in the Famagusta district are being planned by the deputy ministries of culture and tourism, focusing on remote monuments or those unknown to the general public. There have been important archaeological finds in the last two decades, including ancient rock-hewn tombs and a shrine, adding to the rich Byzantine tradition of the region.
Fact: Lia Haraki will be at the helm of the opening ceremony as the Cyprus Film Days International Festival launches its 22nd edition in Limassol.
– Culture Deputy Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou expressed hope that the deadlock over the Cyprus problem may be lifted.
– The appointment of United Nations envoy Maria Angela Holguin and the interest shown by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the international community, and the European Union have created room for hope.
– The government is pursuing a solution to reunite and form conditions for the development and well-being of the entire island and its people.
– The solution will strengthen stability and security in the wider region and allow Cyprus to take full advantage of its potential and prospects.
– Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanoli stated that President Nikos Christodoulides’ main concern is to achieve a solution for an independent and truly sovereign state.
– She envisions a solution free from anachronistic guarantees and the presence of occupying troops.
Deputy Minister of Culture Vasiliki Kassianidou emphasized the importance of digitization in protecting cultural heritage, stating that new technology is crucial for documenting, protecting, and recovering stolen cultural property. Over the past 36 months, 96,000 ancient objects in state museums have been digitized as part of a project that began in May 2021, aiming to digitize all objects exhibited in museum exhibitions under the department of antiquities’ responsibility. Since 2009, over 100,000 movable finds, 3,581 archaeological surveys, and 1,641 ancient monuments have been digitized.
During her visit to Limassol, Deputy Minister of Culture Vasiliki Kassianidou stated that the Limassol Archaeological Museum should stay at its current location and receive an upgrade. Kassianidou toured various archaeological sites, including the ancient port and new burial sites in Amathounta, as well as the Episkopi Museum and excavation sites in Erimi. She emphasized the museum’s central location and its role as a workspace for archaeologists and conservators. Kassianidou mentioned the need for the museum to expand and highlighted its potential for educational spaces. She acknowledged the need for studies and budget integration before renovations can proceed and expressed goals to extend the museum’s operating hours. Additionally, Kassianidou discussed improving the maintenance and management of archaeological sites and making Amathounta more attractive to visitors. She also noted that the Episkopi community museum requires upgrades and maintenance and mentioned an issue with the site in Erimi, which is privately owned.
The Minister of Transport, Alexis Vafeiadis, and the Deputy Minister of Culture, Vasiliki Kassianidou, visited the construction site of the New Cyprus Museum to be informed about the progress of the construction works. They expressed satisfaction with the progress of the project. There have been requests for an extension in the construction due to unforeseen conditions. Efforts are being made to include the maintenance of the building in the contractor's contract. The columns made of concrete that were found in the summer have already been removed. The project is funded by the state budget and is expected to cost around €140 million. The completion of the project is considered a responsibility to create a museum that represents the country's culture and attracts visitors. The Department of Antiquities is preparing the exhibits, texts, and digital applications for the completion of the project.
The government of Cyprus has pledged to grant €6.5 million to the town chosen as the “European Capital of Culture for 2030.” Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Ayia Napa are all competing for the title. The chosen town will also receive a €1.5 million bonus. The funds will cover 60% of the city’s budget for cultural events and activities. Paphos, which was the European Capital of Culture in 2017, received €5 million in funding. The Deputy Minister for Culture, Dr. Vasiliki Kassianidou, believes that the title will bring economic growth and showcase the country’s culture and heritage. The Cypriot capital of culture for 2030 will share the title with one of five Belgian candidates.