Construction of a new Archaeological Museum is underway in Nicosia. It will be the largest cultural project in modern Cypriot history. The concrete work for the first floor of one of the main exhibition buildings has been completed, and the approximately 80-meter-long concrete structure is supported by two massive vertical columns.
The €144 million project (excluding VAT) involves constructing a landmark building with modern energy standards and powerful infrastructure that harmoniously combines classic and innovative architectural elements.
What will be inside the new museum?
The new museum will be more than just a space for storing antiquities; it will also be a modern cultural center open to the public, scientists, and tourists. According to the project plans, the building will accommodate:
- 5,500 m² of permanent exhibitions showcasing the richness of Cyprus's archaeological heritage;
- 1,000 m² of temporary exhibitions, which will allow the museum to regularly update its programs;
- 2,000 m² of laboratories and 5,000 m² of storage space for scientific and restoration work.
It will also have an amphitheater, a café-restaurant, underground parking, and a 7,000 m² square with fountains and green spaces for relaxation and events.
A key feature of the project is its bioclimatic design, which incorporates natural shade, a solar panel system, and high energy efficiency.
Investment in culture and tourism development
The new museum has already received international support. In February 2024, two loan agreements, each worth €72 million, were signed with the European Investment Bank and the Council of Europe Development Bank. These institutions are key sources of funding for the construction.
The project is expected to boost tourism, economic growth, and cultural diplomacy, establishing Cyprus as a central point on the cultural map of Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean.
A journey spanning almost a decade
The new museum's history began in 2016 with an international architectural competition, which Theoni Xanthi XZA Architects won. In 2019, a contract was signed for developing project documentation, but this was delayed due to the pandemic. Construction began in 2023 and is being carried out by the Iacovou–Cyfield (M) Joint Venture consortium. The contract includes a two-year warranty and the option to extend building maintenance for ten years. The facility is scheduled to open in 2027.
In addition to preserving archaeological heritage, the new building will serve as a modern venue for education, art, and social integration. It is poised to become a symbol of a new cultural era in Lefkosia, connecting Cyprus's past with its future.