On Friday 5 September, the Municipality of Polis Chrysochous held a grand opening ceremony for three new facilities: the Museum of the Sea and Culture, the Reptile and Amphibian Exhibition Centre, and the renovated public space in front of the municipal building and the former police station. Cyprus President Nicos Christodoulides attended the events. During his visit, he announced the decision to build a modern hospital in the area. The medical facility will be located on the site of a former military camp, and preparatory work has already begun. The necessary research and design work will start soon. According to the President, the construction of the hospital will significantly contribute to the development of healthcare in Paphos and neighbouring areas, including Tilliria.
Hospital, roads and cultural centres — a unified development plan
Christodoulides emphasised that the government has a clear vision and strategy for the comprehensive development of Polis Chrysochous and its surroundings. In addition to the new hospital, projects are already underway in the region to improve quality of life for locals, promote economic growth and boost tourist appeal.
These initiatives include the construction of a new road, the modernisation of urban infrastructure and the creation of various cultural spaces. The aim of these projects is to attract new visitors, support local businesses, and preserve the region's unique natural and cultural heritage.
Three new facilities are already open
The first of these was the Museum of the Sea and Culture in Lachi, which the president visited last week. This new attraction is housed in a building that previously served as a fishing warehouse, but has now been completely renovated to become a modern cultural space dedicated to maritime themes. The project cost €1.9 million in total, funded by EU programmes for the development of fisheries and the maritime economy.
The second project was the Reptile and Amphibian Exhibition Centre in the village of Neo Chorio, which focuses on Cypriot biodiversity. Costing around €400,000, this project was partly financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. This facility is expected to become a unique tourist attraction, as well as an important educational venue for Cypriot schools, for those interested in the island's nature.
The third project involved the reconstruction of the public space in front of the municipal building and the former police station. Although the work was completed in January 2025, the grand opening has only just taken place. The area now features green spaces, playgrounds, a new central square and visitor parking. The project cost €1.75 million, with a significant portion of the funding coming from EU sources.
Balance between development and nature conservation
Nikos Christodoulidis noted that all projects in the region are implemented with a balance between economic growth, improving the living conditions of local residents, and protecting the environment. The government intends to continue investing in infrastructure, healthcare, tourism and cultural initiatives, with the aim of making Polis Chrysochous one of the leading centres of attraction in western Cyprus.
Construction of the new hospital is expected to begin in 2026 and be completed by the end of 2030. This will create hundreds of jobs, improve access to healthcare services, and strengthen the city's status as an important regional centre.