Cyprus, Nicosia

The restoration of the Hamidiye Mosque in the village of Lefkara, Cyprus, has been completed

28.03.2024 / 06:44

The restoration and conservation efforts for the Hamidiye Mosque in Lefkara, Cyprus, have reached their conclusion. This restoration project was overseen by the bicommunal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage.

To mark the completion of this endeavor, an event was held with the participation of the co-chairs of the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage, as well as representatives from the UN Peacekeeping Force, the European Commission, and the UN Development Programme.

Ali Tunçay, the co-chair of the bicommunal committee, emphasized that the collaboration between Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots in restoring monuments on the island showcases the mutual benefits for both communities.

He also noted that the conservation work on the Hamidiye Mosque in Lefkara was made possible through financial contributions from the European Union and technical support from the UN Development Programme.

Ali Tunçay stated, "Thanks to the comprehensive conservation efforts at the Lefkara Hamidiye Mosque, its long-term structural integrity, authenticity, and cultural significance will be preserved."

Philip Boden, the UN Senior Political Affairs Officer in Cyprus, highlighted that the restoration of the Hamidiye Mosque will serve as a "tangible and positive signal" and "will contribute to further establishing Lefkara as an important tourist destination."

The Hamidiye Mosque in Lefkara, dating back to the Ottoman Empire era, represents the unique architectural style of Cyprus and holds significant historical and cultural value. Historical records indicate that the mosque was originally constructed between 1835 and 1883, demolished in 1897, and later rebuilt in its current form in the early 20th century. It remained operational until 1963.