Newsroom
The demolition of yet another modernist landmark in Cyprus has reignited concerns over the preservation of the island’s architectural heritage.
According to Kathimerini's Paris Demetriades, the high-rise on Makarios Street, which for decades housed the Teachers' Cooperative Savings Bank, is set to be torn down, following the recent demolition of the Tryphonos house on Stasinou Street.
Architect Karin Georgiadou, speaking from the construction site where demolition preparations have already begun, warned that the removal of metal and aluminum elements from the façade signals imminent destruction. The decision now rests with the Nicosia Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
A modernist landmark at risk
Designed by the late architect Pefkios Georgiades in 1966, the building was a key establishment for the Teachers' Savings Bank, featuring offices, a lending library, and even a Spiritual House for the Ministry of Education. The Association of Architects has described it as a significant example of Cyprus' modernist movement, reflecting the newly established Cypriot state's commitment to education and progress.
The building incorporates hallmarks of modernist architecture, such as bioclimatic design, horizontal emphasis, and mixed materials—including reinforced concrete, aluminum, and metal staircases functioning as fire escapes.
The modernist movement in Cyprus
Modernism, which emerged globally in the 1920s and lasted until the 1970s, found its way to Cyprus through architects and engineers who studied abroad and embraced new materials like reinforced concrete. Unlike the ornate neoclassical style that had previously dominated the urban landscape, modernist architecture emphasized function over decoration, mass production, and industrialization.
According to Georgiadou, neoclassical buildings like the National Bank on Makarios Street represent an entirely different architectural language, characterized by symmetry, columns, and references to ancient Greek design.
A struggle for recognition and preservation
Despite its historical and architectural value, modernist architecture in Cyprus often goes unrecognized, leading to widespread demolitions. “If we continue to erase these buildings, future generations will believe Cyprus only produced structures like the ones we see today,” Georgiadou warned. She called for a more proactive approach by state authorities, such as the Town Planning Department and the Environmental Department Authority (EDA), to explore alternative solutions with investors before demolishing significant structures.
While acknowledging the rights of private owners, Georgiadou emphasized the need for government intervention to protect architectural heritage. However, she noted that, in the case of the Savings Bank building, preservation seems unlikely due to its sale to a private investor.
A citywide and nationwide concern
The loss of modernist buildings is not unique to this site. Just a few blocks away, the historic Miki Anastasiades clinic, which had been slated for demolition, was recently spared and will be repurposed into a boutique hotel. Georgiadou highlighted the clinic’s unique features, including porthole-like windows, external staircases, and mosaic slab facades made from locally sourced marble.
Modernist architecture is scattered across Nicosia, with concentrations in areas like Ledras and Onasagorou streets, once commercial hubs where shop owners embraced the modernist style. Other districts, such as Agios Andreas and parts of Agios Dometios, still contain modernist homes, though many have been demolished in favor of high-rise developments.
Urgent need for action
The ongoing demolitions raise pressing questions about the future of Cyprus’ architectural identity. “Will we be left with no evidence of our cities’ history?” Georgiadou asked. “What will we tell our children—that Cyprus had no architectural evolution beyond neoclassicism?”
She urged authorities to act before it is too late, stressing that while not all modernist buildings can be preserved, a systematic selection process should be implemented to safeguard those of greatest significance. “Each demolished structure takes with it a piece of our identity,” she concluded.
As modernist buildings continue to disappear, the fate of Nicosia’s architectural heritage hangs in the balance.
