Restoration efforts are set to commence on two ancient churches located in the northern, occupied regions of Cyprus, marking a significant step in protecting the island's rich cultural heritage. The Bi-communal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage is leading this important initiative. This project clearly demonstrates a dedicated commitment to preserving historically and religiously significant monuments for future generations, transcending the island's political divisions.
These upcoming restoration works will concentrate on the Agios Prokopios Church in Sygkrasi village and the Church of Panagia of Akenndou in Lefka. Scheduled to begin within the next few weeks, these sites represent a shared heritage that both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities are actively striving to safeguard. Sotos Ktoris, a co-chair of the Bi-communal Technical Committee, emphasized the collaborative nature of these preservation endeavors. He highlighted their crucial role in fostering mutual understanding and fostering respect between communities.
The Agios Prokopios Church in Sygkrasi possesses a history that stretches back to ancient times. The current structure, believed to date from the Middle Byzantine era, likely between the 11th and 12th centuries, was built upon the foundations of an earlier 6th-century early Christian basilica. The surviving wall paintings within the church offer a compelling glimpse into the artistic and spiritual life of past eras, making its preservation a matter of considerable archaeological and artistic significance.
Similarly, the Church of Panagia of Akenndou in Lefka is recognized as a monument of substantial historical value, officially designated as an ancient monument. Its distinctive architectural features and historical context contribute significantly to the vibrant tapestry of Cyprus's cultural landscape. The decision to undertake restoration on these particular structures reflects a deliberate strategy to address the most urgent needs of endangered heritage sites within the occupied territories.
These projects are fundamentally integral to the broader mission of the Bi-communal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage. This committee was established to facilitate practical cooperation between the two communities on matters concerning the island's shared past. The committee's extensive work encompasses a wide array of cultural assets, including religious sites, archaeological ruins, and traditional architecture. All these are considered vital components of Cyprus’s collective identity. The restoration of these churches, therefore, represents more than just physical repair; it is a symbolic affirmation of the enduring connections that unite the island’s diverse communities.