NICOSIA – The vibrant cultural heritage of Cyprus is currently being showcased through two significant exhibitions, one celebrating the island's enduring folk traditions and the other illuminating its historical significance on an international stage. The 'Myths of Cyprus' exhibition, which opened its doors on Monday at the Kastelliotissa medieval hall in Nicosia, aims to breathe new life into ancient narratives for contemporary audiences, particularly the younger generation. Concurrently, the 'Chypre a la BnF' exhibition, inaugurated on February 10th at the prestigious National Library of France, highlights France's historical perception of Cyprus and its pivotal role as a cultural nexus.
The 'Myths of Cyprus' exhibition, spearheaded by the Press and Information Office (PIO) in collaboration with the Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation, serves as a tangible extension of a successful series of short films that premiered online last year. These films, which delve into the island's rich folklore, have been reimagined within the medieval walls of Kastelliotissa, transforming the space into an immersive and interactive environment. The exhibition employs a sophisticated blend of modern technology and artistic interpretation, featuring 3D creations, intricate models of legendary figures such as Dighenis and the Kalikantzari, engaging cartoons, and immersive virtual reality experiences. This innovative approach, as articulated by Philippa Karsera Christodoulides, wife of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, seeks to "bridge the past with the technological capabilities of the present," allowing these age-old stories to resonate with a new dynamic.
Mrs. Christodoulides, speaking at the exhibition's opening, underscored the profound relevance of these myths, stating, "The myths exist to light up truths that are difficult to be told differently. And they always stay alive, teaching and inspiring." The exhibition's design, incorporating graphic reproductions and visual reality elements, ensures that these narratives acquire a vividness and immediacy that appeals directly to a younger demographic, communicating timeless messages in a language they understand. This initiative is a testament to Cyprus' commitment to preserving its cultural identity while embracing contemporary modes of communication and artistic expression.
Meanwhile, across the Mediterranean in Paris, the 'Chypre a la BnF' exhibition is drawing attention to Cyprus' long-standing importance in the historical and cultural landscape of the region. This exhibition, a key component of the Cultural Programme of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union, offers a French perspective on the island, tracing its portrayal from the 17th century onwards. Curated by Christian Forstel and Maximilien Girard from the National Library of France, the exhibition showcases a diverse array of artifacts, including antiquities, rare manuscripts, evocative engravings, and historical drawings. These materials, some loaned from the Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation and the Church of Panagia Faneromeni, provide compelling evidence of Cyprus' enduring status as a crossroads of civilizations.
The Parisian display further features works by the renowned artist Louis François Cassas and post-Byzantine icons from the 17th and 18th centuries, underscoring the island's profound Orthodox Byzantine heritage. Dr. Yiannis Toumazis and Dr. Christodoulos Hatzichristodoulou, curators from the Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation, highlighted the significance of these loaned pieces in illustrating Cyprus' historical weight in the Mediterranean and Near East. The exhibition's inauguration on February 10th was attended by President Nicos Christodoulides, signalling the high regard with which Cyprus holds this international recognition of its historical and cultural contributions. Together, these two exhibitions offer a comprehensive and compelling portrayal of Cyprus, celebrating its mythical past and its indelible historical footprint.