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Cyprus is about to take a giant leap into the world of astro-tourism with the much-anticipated Troodos Observatory, set to open in June 2025. The observatory, nestled high in the Troodos Mountains, is poised to offer a unique celestial experience that could transform the island into a prime destination for stargazers and science enthusiasts alike.
After years of planning, the Troodos Observatory is ready to offer public access with a host of exciting activities. From guided tours to stargazing events with state-of-the-art telescopes, the facility will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the night sky. The observatory will also host educational workshops, presentations, and even tourism packages that combine nature, culture, and astronomy.
Cyprus is looking to become a leading destination for astro-tourism, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the final frontier from one of the most stunning locations on Earth.
What makes the Troodos Observatory even more captivating is its location and design. Set against the serene backdrop of the Troodos Mountains, the observatory is situated in the quiet village of Agridia, offering an unobstructed view of the heavens. The design of the observatory itself is just as intriguing, designed by the Tsolakis siblings, Elena, Nicodemos, and Cassandra, the building is often compared to a futuristic spaceship, though the architects say this resemblance wasn’t planned. “Yes, from some angles, it might look like a spaceship, but that’s just how it turned out,” says Elena Tsolakis, adding that their main goal was to create an iconic structure that blends in with the natural surroundings. 
Architects Cassandra, Elena and Nicodemos Tsolakis pose for a picture at Troodos Astronomical Observatory in Agridia village, Cyprus June 13, 2024. [Yiannis Kourtoglou/Reuters]
The observatory’s unique, angular architecture reflects the sky, allowing it to mesh seamlessly with the landscape. According to Nicodemos Tsolakis, one of the architects, the goal was to create something memorable, and it looks like they’ve done just that. The building sits as both a functional piece of technology and a symbol of Cyprus’ growing interest in space and science.
The Troodos Observatory is not just about its striking design; it's equipped with cutting-edge tools for scientific exploration. The observatory boasts a 20-inch reflective telescope, the largest of its kind on the island, housed under a rotating 5.6-meter-wide dome. There’s also a solar telescope, housed under a hydraulic roof, offering a comprehensive array of tools for stargazing and scientific research.
The observatory is part of the EU-backed Geostars project, which aims to revitalize rural areas in Cyprus and Greece through initiatives like this. The hope is that the Troodos Observatory will not only serve as a hub for astronomy enthusiasts but also attract tourists to the area, bringing economic benefits to regions that have long been overlooked by traditional tourism.
Side view of the Troodos Observatory opening in June 2025, Facebook photo by Eli
Elena Tsolakis, who was recently recognized by the Royal Institute of British Architects as one of the 100 most influential female architects in the world, believes the observatory will inspire awe and curiosity, especially in younger visitors. “What we want to do is create a sense of wonder and curiosity, particularly for children, so they can experience the beauty of the universe and develop an interest in science,” she says.
Beyond its educational purpose, the observatory aims to preserve the island's clear, starry skies, which have been increasingly threatened by urbanization. By bringing visitors and science together in this remote area, Cyprus is looking to become a leading destination for astro-tourism, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the final frontier from one of the most stunning locations on Earth.
So, as the Troodos Observatory prepares to open in 2025, it promises to offer more than just a view of the stars—it will provide an opportunity to engage with the universe in a way that is both educational and awe-inspiring. The launch of this unique observatory marks a new chapter for Cyprus in the world of astronomy and tourism.
Screen grab of an aerial shot of Troodos observatory by Stelios Theodorou
*With information from Reuters
