As a country whose rich cultural heritage originates from diverse cultural influences, Cyprus presented an ambitious heritage season in 2018.

Throughout September  and November, more than 40 exciting events have taken place within the European Heritage Days and European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 celebrations. Aiming to explore the European dimensions of the country’s cultural landmarks, various local authorities, cultural organisations, and heritage groups presented dozens of themed exhibitions, workshops, art and culinary festivals, guided tours, and performances.

By demonstrating the educational, economic, and social value of cultural heritage, the events provided new means and contexts for heritage promotion.

Heritage Festivals, Lectures, Workshops and Guided Tours

Photo: AEI-CineFest 2018, Source: AEI-CineFest Facebook Page

Among the inspiring heritage events that took place over the last three months in Cyprus, AEI CineFest 2018 was a special highlight. The 1st International Archaeological, Ethnographical and Historical Documentary Film and Culture Festival brought together 28 different perspectives in the form of documentaries, lectures, art performances, and a photography contest focused on exploring culture and humans in time and space.

From 19 to 23 September, visitors in the municipality of Aglandjia in Nicosia were able to explore various archaeological, ethnographic, historical, and artistic representations of cultural heritage, society, and history of Cyprus. The enthusiasm of participants and organizers, as well as the great feedback and response by the public enabled the festival to grow into an annual event with a cross-cultural character.

Traditionally, Cyprus’ community events in September and October are dedicated to wine and grape products and festivals. The village of Kilani in the Limassol region hosted an annual grape festival - "Annoima of Pitharka - Revival of the Ancient Pythagorion.” The event took place on 13 October, allowing visitors to discover traditional secrets related to the production of wine and other grape products. At the same time, visitors had a chance to learn about the associated old folk traditions of singing, dancing, house building, and other Cypriot customs.

November’s European Heritage Days events will conclude next week with a lecture and workshop on oral speech "From the oral speech of the past to the sounds of the present.” Taking place on 20 November at The Decorated Bread Museum “To Ploumisto Psomi” at Technodromio in Limassol, the workshop will make a connection between different epochs and mediums that essentially tell the same story of heritage. The project aims at preserving the heritage that has been passed down through the generations through storytelling.

Highlights from the Cypriot European Year of Cultural Heritage Celebrations

One of the most noteworthy events in Cyprus dedicated to the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 is the art exhibition at EU House in Nicosia. By showcasing their interpretations of the Cypriot terracotta amphorae, 12 local artists also answered the common EYCH theme – The Art of Sharing. the Amphora Project was on display from 24 October to 13 November, offering visitors various perspectives on the traditional heritage practice.

As this year’s exciting season of heritage sharing in Cyprus is coming to an end, local organizers can consider it a great success. The 2018 European Heritage Days in Cyprus will help to inspire new generations to recognize, appreciate, promote, and protect cultural heritage of local, national, and international character.