Historic “funeral carriage” restored and returned to its place in Famagusta

On 8 September 2025, the restoration of the historic “funeral carriage,” located near the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (formerly the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas), was completed in Famagusta and the carriage was returned to its original place. The initiative came from the Famagusta Old Town Association (MASDER); during the project discussion within the framework of “Cumartesi Söyleşileri,” the Director of the Department of Antiquities and Museums, Emine Ziba, was present. According to the statement of the Deputy Prime Ministry and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment, the object had been temporarily moved to the Department’s Conservation and Restoration Center for the works.

According to the authorities, the carriage was in use until the 1950s. Restoration and conservation were carried out in cooperation with the Vakıflar Administration, which financed the works. The team of the Center carried out the work with minimal intervention, respecting the original materials and applying preventive measures and approved conservation methods.

After the completion of the works, the carriage was returned to its place near the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque. For residents and tourists, this means the preservation of a significant historical exhibit in the heart of Famagusta and an enhancement of the presentation of local cultural heritage; such efforts help prevent further deterioration of monuments and support cultural tourism in the region. Information on the restoration was published in a press release of the Ministry.