International Symposium on Cultural Heritage Preservation Begins in Northern Cyprus

The second International Symposium on Cultural Heritage Preservation has officially begun in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Over the course of the two-day event, experts will present 32 academic papers.

The symposium focuses on a range of topics including the cultural significance of heritage sites in Cyprus and Turkey, existing threats, methods of preservation and restoration, and sustainable management of historical sites.

The event opened at the Kyrenia Acapulco Hotel with a speech from TRNC President Ersin Tatar. A message from Birol İnceciköz, Director General of the Department of Cultural Heritage and Museums under the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, was also read during the ceremony.

In his remarks, President Tatar highlighted that restoration work on the Selimiye Mosque has been ongoing for four and a half years with support from the Republic of Turkey and is expected to be completed soon. He also noted that preservation and restoration efforts are continuing in other cities across the country.

Tatar reminded attendees that agreements reached at the Cyprus Conference in Geneva included provisions for protecting cemeteries and other culturally significant sites. He emphasized the importance of treating both churches and mosques with respect during restoration.

He also expressed hope that the historical artifacts currently held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York would one day be returned to Cyprus.

The symposium is organized by the Association for the Protection and Study of Cultural Heritage (KÜMAD), in collaboration with the TRNC National Archives and Research Department, the TRNC Department of Antiquities and Museums, and the Alashia Terracotta Art Community.