The Cyprus National Commission for UNESCO has just launched its new publication entitled World Heritage of Cyprus: History, Myth, Religion, available in Greek and English, in both print and digital formats.
Cyprus’s three inscriptions on the UNESCO World Heritage List — the Neolithic settlement of Choirokoitia, the archaeological site of Paphos Archaeological Site (Palaepaphos and Nea Paphos), and the ten Painted Churches of the Troodos Mountains — are associated with defining periods in the historical and cultural trajectory of Cyprus, in constant dialogue with the great civilizations of the Mediterranean. They constitute emblematic testimonies to the island’s cultural identity and are internationally recognized for their Outstanding Universal Value.
The publication highlights the timeless interaction of history, myth, and religious tradition; the synthesis of diverse cultural influences; and the close relationship between human communities and their natural environment. At the same time, it sheds light on the ways in which the societies of Cyprus transformed their existential quests and collective experiences into monuments and works of art of exceptional aesthetic and symbolic significance.
Designed as a user-friendly guide, the publication addresses both the general public and the educational and academic communities, aspiring to contribute to the further promotion and understanding of Cyprus’s World Heritage monuments, as well as to raise awareness regarding their protection and sustainable management.
The publication was edited and authored by Dr. Petroula Hadjittofi and Thekla Papantoniou, under the supervision of the President of the Cyprus National Commission for UNESCO, Dr. Marina Solomidou Ieronomidou. Scientific editing was undertaken by Dr. Alain Le Brun and Odile Daune Le Brun (Choirokoitia), Professor Emerita Maria Iacovou (Palaepaphos), Professor Emeritus Demetrios Michaelides (Nea Paphos), Dr. Sophocles Hadjisavvas (Tombs of the Kings), and Dr. Christodoulos Hadjichristodoulou (Byzantine churches). The English translation of the texts was edited by Dr. Lindy Crewe.
The monuments were photographed by Silvio Augusto Rusmigo, in collaboration with the Department of Antiquities, while the publication was designed by graphic designer Lydia Kyprianou.
Download the publication here.