Famagusta gate in Nicosia will soon be revitalised as a cultural venue during the EU council presidency, according to Deputy Culture Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou. At the inauguration of the historic monument’s renovation, she revealed plans for the gate’s active use, coinciding with Cyprus’s hosting of thousands of visitors and officials.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Kassianidou emphasised the importance of promoting Nicosia’s cultural heritage, especially as the capital prepares to be in the spotlight of European attention. She highlighted the gate’s historical significance and the recent restoration efforts, which have been motivated by a desire to reconnect the monument with the city’s contemporary cultural landscape.
The Famagusta gate, which has been a significant landmark, saw its operation as a cultural centre come to a halt in 2018 due to severe flooding caused by torrential rains. The deputy minister noted that the restoration and maintenance project, which has cost nearly €1 million, aims to restore the gate’s role as a vibrant public space in the historic centre of Nicosia.
In her address, Kassianidou referenced Nicosia’s recent accolade as the best European capital of culture, a recognition that underscores the city’s commitment to cultural development. She assured that her ministry will continue to support initiatives that protect and promote Nicosia’s diverse heritage, aligning with the broader goals of the EU presidency.
Antiquities department director Georgeos Georgiou shared insights into the restoration process, which commenced in February 2019. The project focused on two main objectives: conserving the stone and wooden elements of the monument and upgrading essential visitor infrastructure such as lighting, sound systems, and air conditioning. Georgiou noted that these upgrades have already begun to be implemented.
The conservation efforts have also provided archaeological insights, further enriching the understanding of the monument’s construction and its integration within the medieval urban fabric of Nicosia. With the completion of these works, the Famagusta gate is poised to become a focal point of cultural activity, reflecting both the city’s rich history and its dynamic present.