A heated debate has erupted in Nicosia over plans of the local municipality to allow the construction of high-rise buildings next to the historic gates of Famagusta.
Archaeologists, in particular, have expressed fears that such projects could cause irreversible damage to the medieval appearance of the town.
The Cyprus Archaeologists Association (CAA) strongly opposed the municipality's initiative, saying that such developments would drastically alter the capital's historic landscape and threaten the cultural integrity of the area. In a statement, the organisation called on the authorities to strictly follow the law, listen to experts and prioritise the preservation of Nicosia's heritage, especially at a time when the city is claiming to be the European Capital of Culture.
The scholars' concerns were heightened after a meeting with the Department of Antiquities to discuss the municipality's plans to allow the construction of high-rise buildings at the intersection of Salamina and Larnaca avenues. Currently there is a limit of eight storeys, but there is a possibility that the limits will be extended in the future.
CAA describes the situation as alarming, stressing that prioritising financial interests over cultural values could destroy the unique character of the old town. Under Cypriot law, any construction near protected sites requires special permission, and the Department of Antiquities has the power to block projects that pose a threat to the historic environment. Archaeologists insist that urban planning decisions should be made on the basis of expert judgement, not immediate economic benefit.
Any changes to the urban plan should be part of a well-thought-out strategy and not the result of pressure from investors,' the CAA said.
The experts stressed that the Nicosia municipality has a responsibility to preserve the city's identity and that the chaotic construction of high-rise buildings contradicts this mission. As the capital seeks to consolidate its status as a cultural centre, the experts warned: 'The development of the city should be in the long-term interest of society, not for short-term economic gain.
CAA has called on the relevant authorities to take urgent measures to protect Nicosia's historical heritage and prevent the central part of the capital from losing its face to the onslaught of urbanisation. According to the archaeologists, reckless development threatens not only the visual appearance of the city, but also its historical connection with its inhabitants.
The association also pointed out that such projects must adhere to the principles of sustainable development, and warned that Nicosia risks losing its unique historical identity if the authorities do not take into account the opinion of experts and public concerns.
As the debate continues, public attention is focused on the decision of the municipality: will it choose the path of cultural preservation or modernisation?