Shemaine Bushnell Kyriakides
Imagine wandering through centuries of history while sipping cocktails (well maybe not exactly next to artifacts) and enjoying techno beats. This was the scene at the Cyprus Archaeological Museum during the Digital Agenda Summit 2024. With the street in front of the museum closed, the night was filled with vibrant energy from the Cyprus Cocktail Festival, which featured 20 bars and a live DJ. Attendees strolled through the museum’s remarkable exhibits, from ancient jewelry to the famous Aphrodite of Solon statue, all while enjoying the perfect fusion of culture, technology, and entertainment.
The museum, located on Museum Street in Nicosia, is the largest and oldest archaeological museum in Cyprus, housing artifacts exclusively discovered on the island. Founded in 1882, it contains treasures spanning the Neolithic to Roman periods, such as Chalcolithic figurines and remains from ancient Salamis. The building itself is steeped in history, with its current structure dating back to 1924, and remains the principal showpiece of Cypriot archaeology.
The night event, part of the Digital Agenda Summit, invited attendees to explore the museum's galleries until 9 p.m., with a free guided tour organized by Visit Nicosia. This unique experience allowed visitors to admire collections ranging from sculptures to ancient coins while enjoying cocktails from the festival’s bars. Two of Nicosia’s iconic buildings stood as a backdrop to the party-like atmosphere, blending the best of Cyprus’s cultural past with modern technology.
For those lucky enough to attend, the fusion of a museum visit and a lively cocktail event made for an unforgettable night. With the lights dimmed and music playing, guests were transported not only through time but into the perfect mix of history, innovation, and celebration.
The Cyprus Museum remains a symbol of the island's rich cultural heritage, and nights like these show how history and fun can coexist in perfect harmony.
