vintage postcards — Vintage postcards from Europe are now on display at Larnaca airport, offering travellers a charming glimpse into the past through a unique collection by the late Antonis Hadjipanayis. This exhibition, titled Carte Postale. EU Journey through the Lens of Time, features 250 postcards that span all EU member states, providing a nostalgic look at European cities from the last century.
Vintage postcards: Inauguration of a Cultural Journey
The exhibition was inaugurated by President Christodoulides in early December, marking a significant cultural moment as Cyprus prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in January 2026. The postcards, which showcase the charm and character of various European cities, invite visitors to embark on a visual journey to a bygone era.
A Journey Back in Time
During the inauguration, President Christodoulides remarked, “This exhibition represents a virtual journey to the early 20th century, a time when almost everything was fundamentally different from today. It was an era when communication took place through correspondence, literally from hand to hand.” He emphasised that while the method of sending wishes and sharing memories may seem outdated now, it possesses a unique charm that resonates with older generations while offering younger visitors a chance to discover the past.
Curated with Passion and Respect
The exhibition has been meticulously curated by the collector’s son, Panikos Hadjipanayis, and his grandson, Antonis Hadjipanayis. Their dedication ensures that the family tradition of preserving history continues, transforming a personal passion into a cultural offering for the public. The curators conducted an in-depth exploration of Antonis Hadjipanayis’s archives, personal records, and documents to create this unique showcase.
Celebrating European Identity
As organisers highlight, this exhibition serves as a reminder that European identity has been shaped over centuries through exchanges, relationships, and narratives that transcend borders. The postcards are not just images; they represent connections and stories that link people across the continent.
Significance of the Exhibition
Eleni Kaloyirou, Chief Executive Officer of Hermes Airports, stated, “The exhibition is not only a collection of postcards; it is a journey into the soul of Europe. Larnaca airport is transformed into a vibrant crossroads of European memory and cultural heritage.” She further noted the exhibition’s significance, given its launch just three weeks before Cyprus takes on its important EU role.
A Unique Cultural Experience
For Hermes Airports, it is an honour to offer this cultural experience to travellers. Larnaca airport serves daily as a meeting point for people, stories, and destinations, making it an ideal venue for such a rich display of European heritage. The exhibition invites everyone passing through to reflect on the shared history and cultural narratives that connect us all.
Discovering the Past
As visitors explore the Carte Postale exhibition, they are encouraged to appreciate not just the artistry of the postcards, but also the history and sentiment behind them. This collection stands as a testament to a time when handwritten notes and visual postcards were cherished means of communication, providing a tangible link to the past.