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Tag: community

  • Arrest Made in Theft of Holy Relic from Nicosia Church

    Arrest Made in Theft of Holy Relic from Nicosia Church

    A 44-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of stealing a holy relic from a church in the Nicosia district village of Pano Deftera.

    • A 44-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of stealing a holy relic from a church in the Nicosia district village of Pano Deftera.

    The police reported that the suspect was taken into custody on Friday evening, following a theft that was reported on November 29. The timely intervention by local authorities has brought attention to the seriousness of such offences, especially involving items of religious significance.

    Upon her arrest, the woman was presented in court on Saturday, where she was remanded in custody for six days. This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by places of worship in safeguarding their treasured artefacts.

    The theft of religious items not only affects the immediate community but also raises concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage. Local residents have expressed their shock at the incident, emphasising the importance of protecting their local church and its sacred relics.

    The police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the theft, aiming to gather more information that could lead to further developments in the case. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution.

  • Christmas tree: Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest to Illuminate the Season with Tree Lighting

    Christmas tree: Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest to Illuminate the Season with Tree Lighting

    The Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest is set to bring festive cheer to Nicosia with the Lighting of the Christmas Tree this Sunday. The event, organised by the Nicosia Municipality, promises a vibrant day filled with various activities for all ages.

    • Mark your calendars for December 7, and come along to the chapel of Ayios Dometios for a day of festivities that will light up the community with joy and celebration.

    A Day of Festivities

    Scheduled from 12pm to 8.30pm, the Christmas Fest will take place at the chapel of Ayios Dometios. Attendees can expect a rich programme that includes live music, workshops, and children’s activities that showcase local cultural creativity. This festive gathering aims to strengthen the Christmas spirit within the community.

    Musical Performances and Cultural Showcases

    Among the highlights of the day will be performances from local artists, including the popular trio Rumba Attack and the Chara Miller Jazz Quintet. These acts are set to entertain the crowd with a mix of festive tunes, ensuring a lively atmosphere throughout the event.

    Local school choirs will also take to the stage, offering their vocal talents as part of the festivities. Additionally, the Musica Mundana Conservatory Choir and the Genesis Cultural Choir will perform, adding to the rich tapestry of local musical culture.

    Engaging Activities for Children

    Children attending the Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest will have plenty to keep them engaged. Craft workshops and interactive activities are planned to entertain the younger audience, allowing them to express their creativity in a festive setting.

    These workshops not only provide entertainment but also allow children to take part in the festive spirit by creating their own holiday-themed crafts. Parents can enjoy the peace of mind knowing their children are entertained while experiencing the holiday cheer.

    A Market for Local Treasures

    The Christmas market at Ayios Dometios will offer a selection of handmade creations and local treats, providing an excellent opportunity for attendees to shop local this festive season. From unique crafts to delicious festive snacks, the market aims to support local artisans and businesses.

    Visitors will have the chance to find one-of-a-kind gifts for their loved ones while enjoying the festive atmosphere of the market. This initiative not only boosts local commerce but also fosters a sense of community among attendees.

    Lighting of the Christmas Tree

    The culmination of the day’s events will be the ceremonial Lighting of the Christmas Tree at 5pm. This moment is anticipated by many in the community as it symbolises the official start of the festive season in Nicosia.

    Following the tree lighting, a rich live music programme will continue, allowing everyone to celebrate together. The combination of music, lights, and the joyful spirit of the season is sure to create lasting memories for all attendees.

    A Community Celebration

    The Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest is a key part of the Municipality of Nicosia’s broader festive programme, Christmas in the Capital. This initiative aims to bring the community together through various events that promote cultural engagement and festive cheer.

    Local residents and visitors alike are encouraged to join in the celebration, making it an inclusive occasion for everyone. The emphasis on local culture, music, and community spirit makes this event a highlight of the Christmas season.

    Join the Festivities

    As the festive season approaches, the Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest serves as a reminder of the joy and togetherness that the holidays bring. With a variety of activities lined up, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

    The event is designed to be family-friendly, ensuring that all ages can participate in the celebrations. Whether it’s enjoying the live music, exploring the Christmas market, or watching the children engage in craft workshops, the day promises to be filled with holiday spirit.

    Mark your calendars for December 7, and come along to the chapel of Ayios Dometios for a day of festivities that will light up the community with joy and celebration.

  • Larnaca Marathon Welcomes 13,000 Runners for Annual Race

    Larnaca Marathon Welcomes 13,000 Runners for Annual Race

    larnaca marathon — larnaca marathon — Larnaca is all set to host its annual marathon on Sunday, with more than 13,000 runners from 85 countries expected to pound the town’s streets across various distances. This year, around 1,000 participants will tackle the full 26.2-mile marathon, while other events include a half marathon, a 10-kilometre run, two five-kilometre runs, and several one-kilometre races catering to children and adults.

    Larnaca marathon: Marathon Flame Arrives in Larnaca

    In a ceremonial arrival, the Marathon Flame, which has its origins in the Athens Classic Marathon, reached Larnaca on Friday evening. This flame serves as a symbol of athletic excellence and historical significance, echoing the ancient Greek legend of Pheidippides, who ran from the Battle of Marathon to Athens to announce victory over the Persians in 490 BC.

    Larnaca’s deputy mayor, Iasonas Iasonides, expressed gratitude to the Hellenic Athletics Federation and the deputy mayor for sport from the town of Marathon, Anastasios Chrysinas, for bringing the flame to the island. “This is a sign of honour, friendship, cooperation, and love for us, since Larnaca is celebrating again,” Iasonides stated, highlighting the community spirit surrounding the event.

    Last Year’s Winners and Podium Finishers

    Reflecting on previous competitions, last year’s men’s marathon was won by 42-year-old British runner Dasos Gonnella, who finished with a remarkable time of two hours, 39 minutes, and nine seconds. He was closely followed by 37-year-old Slovenian Emil Zohorovic, securing second place.

    In the women’s category, British runner Rebecca Clarke, aged 31, took first place, completing the race in three hours, two minutes, and eight seconds. Dissing Messell Gitte, a 50-year-old competitor from Botswana, finished in second with a time of three hours, six minutes, and 17 seconds. Notably, Cypriot runner Stavri Thrasyvoulou also made her mark, claiming a podium spot with a time of three hours, 10 minutes, and five seconds.

    The event also celebrated its oldest participant, Gote Granholm from Finland, born in 1954, who completed the marathon in four hours, 17 minutes, and 20 seconds, showcasing the inclusive nature of the race.

    A Day of Celebration and Athleticism

    This year’s marathon promises to be not just a test of endurance but a vibrant celebration of community spirit, athletic prowess, and international camaraderie. With streets lined with spectators and supporters, Larnaca is poised to create a memorable experience for both participants and onlookers alike. As the countdown to race day continues, excitement builds for what promises to be another successful marathon.

  • Fatal crash: Tragic Collision in Limassol Claims Life of Motorcyclist

    Fatal crash: Tragic Collision in Limassol Claims Life of Motorcyclist

    fatal crash — fatal crash — A fatal road collision occurred last night in Limassol, claiming the life of 51-year-old Giorgos Georgiou, formerly of Limassol. The incident took place around 8:30 p.m. on the old Limassol–Nicosia road.

    At that time, a 41-year-old man was driving a van towards Limassol when, while on the Moni flyover, he veered into the opposing lane of traffic. This reckless manoeuvre resulted in a head-on collision with a large-engine motorcycle being ridden by Georgiou, who was travelling in the opposite direction.

    Despite wearing a protective helmet, Georgiou sustained severe injuries from the crash. Emergency services quickly arrived on the scene, and he was rushed by ambulance to a private hospital in Limassol. Tragically, despite the medical team’s best efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.

    Authorities have revealed that the van driver failed a final alcohol test, registering 48mg, which exceeds the legal limit of 22mg in Cyprus. A subsequent drug test returned negative, indicating no further substances were involved. In light of these findings, a judicial warrant was issued for his arrest, and he was taken into custody to assist with ongoing police inquiries.

    The Limassol Traffic Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident, seeking to establish a clearer understanding of the events that led to the fatal collision.

  • Man Discovered Dead in Nicosia Residence

    Man Discovered Dead in Nicosia Residence

    nicosia — A man was found dead in a house in Nicosia on Thursday, according to local authorities. The tragic discovery was made around 2.30pm in the Engomi area, raising concerns over the circumstances surrounding his death.

    Police reported that the man’s body was in an advanced state of decomposition, suggesting that he may have been deceased for some time before being discovered. The exact cause of death is under investigation, with officers working to gather further details.

    As the investigation unfolds, local residents are left in shock, grappling with the suddenness of the incident. Neighbours have expressed their bewilderment, noting that they had not seen the man for several days. The police presence in the area has heightened, as officials seek to piece together the timeline leading up to the discovery.

    This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety and wellbeing within the community. Authorities have assured the public that they are taking the matter seriously and are committed to uncovering the truth behind this unfortunate event.

  • ArtCargo Festival Brings Diverse Street Performances to Limassol

    ArtCargo Festival Brings Diverse Street Performances to Limassol

    ArtCargo is showcasing diverse street performances across Limassol as part of its annual Performing Arts Festival. The event, which commenced this week, follows the motto “art belongs everywhere,” and features over 30 productions from 12 international collectives. The festival runs until November 15, offering a mix of physical theatre, new circus acts, media art, and site-specific performances for audiences to enjoy.

    Artcargo: Free and Accessible Performances Across the City

    ArtCargo’s vibrant festival atmosphere spills into the streets, beaches, and public squares, providing passersby, families, and curious locals with free performances. This accessibility is a key element of the festival, allowing art to reach a wider audience without barriers. From the very first day, the streets of Limassol have been alive with the sounds and sights of performers engaging with the public.

    Indoor Shows Offering Unique Experiences

    While the festival primarily takes place outdoors, there are two indoor shows that invite audiences into a more traditional theatre setting. Monad, a French collective, will perform Yin at the Pattiihio Theatre on Friday. This captivating performance combines juggling and dance, drawing inspiration from dervish movements to create a mesmerizing experience that transports the audience through space and time.

    Innovative Performances and Participatory Art

    One of the standout performances is Mission Roosevelt, presented by Tony Clifton Circus from Italy. This engaging piece, with support from the Cyprus Red Cross, invites audiences to experience the city from a unique perspective by placing them in wheelchairs to navigate the urban landscape. Scheduled for November 12-14, this participatory performance highlights themes of access and empowerment.

    On November 13, local artist Viky Kalla will showcase A Meeting-Celebration in the Old Port Square. This choreographed piece features 12 dancers and explores themes of community and connection, contributing to the festival’s overarching message of inclusivity and artistic expression. Meanwhile, the Belgian collective Shadowdance is transforming the Molos basins into a dreamscape of light and shadow, with performances running daily until Sunday.

    Workshops and Public Engagement

    In addition to the performances, ArtCargo offers free workshops in movement, improvisation, and theatre led by performers such as Murmuyo, Kamchatka, and Viky Kalla. These sessions are designed for the public and not aimed at professionals, encouraging community engagement and participation in the arts.

    Moreover, the festival includes a series of public talks and workshops that focus on the future of Limassol’s public spaces. Organised in collaboration with Lemesos2030, OPU Collective (Organisation for Positive Urbanism), and Critical Mass, these events aim to foster dialogue among citizens, urban thinkers, and artists about how to reimagine and shape their shared urban environments.

    A Grand Finale to Remember

    The ArtCargo Festival will culminate on November 15 with a spectacular finale at the historical KEAN Factory. Here, Italian vertical theatre innovators eVenti Verticali will present CUBO, an awe-inspiring aerial performance featuring a 7-metre-high metal cube suspended in mid-air. Following this breathtaking display, attendees can enjoy the ArtCargo Closing Party, which will feature the Cypriot DJ duo Aparapira Parape, along with food, drinks, and family-friendly activities.

    Join the Celebration of Art

    ArtCargo’s commitment to bringing diverse street performances to Limassol reflects the festival’s dedication to making art accessible to all. With a rich programme of events scheduled through November 15, residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a celebration of creativity and community. For more details, the full programme is available on the festival’s official website: artcargofest.com.

  • Paphos public — Paphos public: Paphos Mayor’s Public Square Vision Faces Council Resistance

    Paphos public — Paphos public: Paphos Mayor’s Public Square Vision Faces Council Resistance

    paphos public — The mayor of Paphos, Phedonas Phedonos, is encountering significant opposition to his proposal for transforming the parking area on Konstantinou Kanaris street into a public square.

    • paphos public — The mayor of Paphos, Phedonas Phedonos, is encountering significant opposition to his proposal for transforming the parking area on Konstantinou Kanaris street into a public square.
    • The mayor acknowledged the complexities surrounding multi-storey parking due to the presence of many Turkish Cypriot properties in the area, which complicates any potential development plans.

    Diko councillor Agathi Savvidou, articulating the majority sentiment within the municipal council, has raised concerns that the initiative would exacerbate the already pressing parking shortage in the city’s centre. She argued for a more practical approach that prioritises the needs of residents, workers, and visitors alike.

    In her plan, Savvidou suggested optimising existing public parking facilities while ensuring that the character of the area is preserved. This strategy, she noted, would be backed by comprehensive technical and economic feasibility studies.

    “A multi-storey car park would provide substantial solutions to the chronic lack of parking spaces, enhance commercial and social activity, reduce traffic congestion and contribute to the sustainable development of our historical and commercial centre,” she explained.

    Despite the backlash, Mayor Phedonos remains optimistic about the approval of his proposal, which he characterises as a minor alteration affecting only 13 to 14 parking spaces. He acknowledged the concerns voiced by local shopkeepers about potential loss of parking but highlighted the availability of approximately 600 additional parking spaces in the vicinity, asserting, “this is not the problem of our commercial centre.”

    In a direct response to Savvidou’s assertions regarding the parking shortage, Phedonos was firm: “There is no shortage.” He further dismissed the call for multi-storey car parks as a populist move, stating, “When such needs arise, we have a plot of land allocated where we can create another 300 spaces without multi-storey buildings.”

    The mayor acknowledged the complexities surrounding multi-storey parking due to the presence of many Turkish Cypriot properties in the area, which complicates any potential development plans.

  • Larnaca Biennale to Unveil Artistic Lines and Traces Across the City

    Larnaca Biennale to Unveil Artistic Lines and Traces Across the City

    larnaca biennale — Larnaca Biennale will showcase a wealth of artistic lines and traces as it prepares for its fourth edition, set to commence in less than a week. Running from October 15 to November 28, the event promises a vibrant cultural programme spanning six-and-a-half weeks, featuring exhibitions, installations, performances, and workshops that will transform the city into a cultural hub.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Larnaca biennale: Curator’s Vision Comes to Life

    With final preparations underway, curator Sana López Abellán expressed excitement about the unfolding of the Biennale, stating, “I am excited to witness how the Biennale unfolds across its venues, weaving together a collective story that belongs to both the artists and the community.” The anticipation is palpable as artists from around the globe arrive to install their works, creating an environment where lines and traces become tangible.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Exhibition Venues Spread Across Larnaca

    The entire Larnaca district will feature selected artworks displayed across 13 indoor and outdoor locations, including notable sites such as the Larnaca Municipal Art Gallery, Pierides Museum, and Larnaca Medieval Castle. The opening ceremony will take place on Wednesday, marking the beginning of an engaging cultural experience. Additional exhibitions will be hosted at the Kallinikeio Municipal Museum in Athienou and the Costas Argyrou Museum in Mazotos.

    Key Installations and Performances

    Among the highlights of the main exhibition are three installation-performances and participatory events. Togetherness – Resonances of Expression and 22 Stops are set to take place on Thursday, while Unspoken Messages will invite public participation at Zouhouri Square, encouraging attendees to engage with the artwork actively.

    Workshops Encouraging Community Engagement

    The Biennale also features an array of workshops aimed at fostering creativity and community connections. The first workshop, The.Curious.Curly’s Cyanotype Tales, will occur on October 17 and November 1, guiding participants through journaling exercises and cyanotype-making. Participants are encouraged to bring a personal photograph from their youth, sharing stories while creating their original cyanotype print.

    Exploring Identity Through Art

    On October 18, the Canada-based duo Anana Rydvald and Zach Fraser will present The Lines and Traces of Identity, a theatrical workshop that utilises emotive masked play to explore personal and collective identity. This workshop exemplifies the Biennale’s focus on integrating artistic practice with meaningful dialogues.

    Bicommunal Art Project Fostering Unity

    The Weaving Unity project on October 25 aims to bring together Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots through a symbolic weaving workshop, culminating in an open artistic celebration on October 26, curated by interdisciplinary designer Konstantinos Charilaou.

    Engaging Performance Art Offerings

    Performance art will also play a significant role in the Biennale, starting with the contemporary dance performance The Thread by the Aphelion Dance Company on October 18. This piece reinterprets the myth of Ariadne and the Minotaur, exploring themes of identity and transformation through movement and narrative.

    Interactive Experiences for Audiences

    The Ichnilat(r)is performance, scheduled for October 19, 25, and November 1, 2, 8, and 9, invites audiences to participate in a unique experience that allows them to choose their role—whether to act or observe—creating a dynamic interaction with the performance.

    Celebrating Love and Heartache

    Anana Rydvald and Zach Fraser will also present their non-verbal mime performance, The Sighlence of Sky, on October 23 and 24. This tender performance offers an ode to love and heartache, navigating themes of disability and neurodivergence through familial relationships.

    Festivals, Films, and Educational Programmes

    The Biennale will also feature the Artist Quarter Piale Pasha Festival, offering guided tours of the artists’ quarter alongside performances and street food from October 18-19. Moreover, the Larnaka Cinema Society will present a selection of films across three evenings on November 10, 17, and 24.

    Creative Workshops for Young Artists

    In the educational programme The Art of Together, actress and theatre facilitator Theodora Andreou will run six creative workshops for children, culminating in a collective art installation at the Municipal Market of Larnaca on October 18, 25, and November 1, 8, 15.

    Open Art Schools Event

    The Open Art Schools event on November 2 will showcase the creative works of students from six art schools across Larnaca, providing families with the opportunity to explore the art world through the eyes of children.

    Experiential Events Highlighting Local Culture

    Curator Abellán will lead a guided Curator’s Walk on October 17, inviting participants to experience Larnaca’s streets and shoreline anew, while Zeno Philosophical Swim on October 22 and 26 connects philosophy with water and everyday activities through a swimming symposium and film screening.

    Tribute to Cypriot Artist Stass Paraskos

    A performance walk, Tracing Stass, will honour the iconic Cypriot artist and educator on October 25 and November 1. Artists Emilios Koutsoftides and Simon Pruciak will guide participants through Stass’ childhood surroundings, reflecting on the landscapes that inspired his work.

    Closing Celebrations and Community Involvement

    The Biennale will conclude with a live music performance on November 21, featuring the three-piece band consisting of Nikos Bardis, Antonis Nomikos, and Giorgos Laggouretos. They will present a unique project inspired by beloved Greek songs, creating an improvisational soundscape that embodies the spirit of the Biennale.

    Finally, the Traces of Our Heritage exhibition and award ceremony on November 27 will showcase work from students and community members, celebrating local culture, history, and traditions through designed products.

  • Free tree — Free Tree Saplings Offered to Combat Climate Change in Cyprus

    Free tree — Free Tree Saplings Offered to Combat Climate Change in Cyprus

    free tree — As Cyprus intensifies its fight against climate change, the forestry department is providing free tree saplings to public bodies and residents in a significant initiative. The ‘planting for the climate’ programme aims to distribute up to 100,000 saplings, valued at €250,000, during the planting season from November to February.

    Free tree: Supporting a National Goal

    The initiative is part of a broader ambition to plant one million new trees across Cyprus by 2030. This effort aligns with a European Union commitment to plant three billion trees by the same deadline. To facilitate tracking the progress of these environmental efforts, the forestry department has established a dedicated database, monitoring activities from 2019 onwards.

    Eligibility and Application Process

    The free saplings are available to a variety of eligible applicants, including local authorities, schools, government services, churches, and organised citizen initiatives with appropriate planting sites. If the demand from these groups is insufficient, up to half of the saplings will be allocated to individual residents.

    Applications for the saplings are open from October 8 to November 7. Interested parties can submit their requests at local forestry stations, via email, or through the department’s website. Municipalities are encouraged to collaborate with local groups to enhance their chances of securing these valuable resources.

    Seedling Specifications

    In addition to smaller saplings, the programme also includes larger saplings grown in containers exceeding three litres, which may be offered free of charge. This approach aims to maximise the impact of the planting initiative by providing a range of options suitable for different planting environments.

    Community Engagement

    Through this initiative, the forestry department seeks to engage the community in environmental stewardship and promote the importance of tree planting as a tool against climate change. Residents are encouraged to participate actively, whether through individual applications or by joining organised efforts in their localities.

  • Chloraka Green Point Suffers from Illegal Rubbish Dumping

    Chloraka Green Point Suffers from Illegal Rubbish Dumping

    chloraka green — The illegal dumping of rubbish at the Chloraka green point has raised serious concerns among local residents and environmental advocates. Andreas Kyriakou, chairman of Chloraka’s cultural and environmental group, has highlighted this ongoing issue, which he claims poses a significant health risk.

    Chloraka green: Ongoing Concerns Over Health Risks

    Kyriakou has pointed out that the accumulation of waste at the entrance of the green point in Paphos has been a persistent problem. He emphasised that the rubbish not only detracts from the area’s natural beauty but also threatens the health of those who frequent the site.

    Call to Action for Environmental Authorities

    In light of the situation, Kyriakou has urged the environment department to take immediate action. His frustration is palpable as he questions why the authorities have yet to address the issue, especially since the area is monitored by a surveillance system.

    Community Involvement and Awareness

    The community’s awareness regarding the illegal dumping is crucial. Local residents are encouraged to report any incidents of rubbish dumping to authorities, fostering a collective effort to maintain the green point’s integrity.