Apostolos Kouroupakis
For many years, even before independence, Cyprus Tourism and the relevant authorities have relied heavily on the "sun and sea" model, which has significantly influenced how we utilize the other advantages the island offers. This focus has also shaped the government's approach to addressing long-standing issues. Our cultural assets—such as museums, archaeological sites, nature trails, and individual monuments—are always considered in moderation for tourism purposes. The Deputy Ministry of Tourism needs to recognize this and work collaboratively with the Deputy Ministry of Culture.
While there have been efforts to tap into the country's cultural reserves, they have not been substantial enough to rival the appeal of the sun and sea. A prime example is the archaeological sites scattered across the countryside, which are in dire need of a complete redesign by the Deputy Ministry of Culture.
This was my impression after visiting the archaeological site of the Neolithic settlement of Choirokoitia last week. Despite its status as an emblematic site, it appears to have stagnated since being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.
The archaeological trail, though well-maintained, was confusing. The simple signage marked "archaeological path" did little to clarify what visitors should focus on. I found it difficult to navigate the site, as the informational signs were badly weathered, making it hard to appreciate the significance of the Neolithic settlement. Without a background in archaeology, most visitors would likely struggle to grasp the importance of the site. Although the view and atmosphere are impressive, understanding the site's historical context is crucial, especially for non-experts. The same issue extends to the reconstructed five houses, where the informational signs reflect outdated aesthetic and museological approaches.
The information leaflets provided at the entrance are valuable but insufficient for visitors on the move, and they too need updating.
Similar problems can be observed at other archaeological sites, such as the Tombs of the Kings, Palaipaphos, and Kourion, which I also visited recently. The Deputy Minister of Culture, Ms. Lina Kassianidou, who is an archaeologist, faces many challenges, including this one. I believe she is particularly attentive to these issues. Upgrading and modernizing archaeological sites would benefit both tourism and local visitors. If these efforts are combined with the growing range of activities offered by Cypriot museums, we could establish a comprehensive archaeological network.
The Deputy Ministry of Culture, through the Department of Antiquities, should address this matter, possibly by securing funds from the European Union or other sources, given that state funding for such issues is often limited. The Deputy Ministry of Tourism should also play a role in promoting the country's cultural heritage in a modern and effective manner.
[This article was translated from its Greek original]
