Reconstruction of the Venetian Water Mill Completed in Cyprus

The reconstruction of the Venetian water mill and ancient aqueduct in Lefke has been completed. This was reported by the bicommunal technical committee for cultural heritage.

The co-chair of the committee, Sotos Ktoris, announced that work on four other projects is expected to be completed in the near future.

The waterworks were a vital component of the irrigation network in this area and its valley, used for growing and processing grain since the Venetian period and during the Ottoman Empire. The water mill, located in the southern part of the village, functioned as a mill.

"Conservation work ensures the extension of the life of this important pre-industrial monument and preserves its heritage for future generations," the committee stated.

The work included the removal of harmful vegetation from the monument and its immediate vicinity, replacement of heavily worn stones, and limited infilling of the structure to ensure its stability.

The aqueduct arch was carefully dismantled and reassembled to repair cracks, deep cementing was done to restore the binding solution, and a hydraulic mortar coating was applied to protect the structure from rain.

Every aspect of the conservation process was carried out with due diligence and respect for the monument's history, the committee noted.

"The water tower of the Lefke water mill with its surviving aqueduct support symbolizes our commitment to the rescue and preservation of Cyprus's rich cultural heritage," the department concluded.

The water mill and its aqueduct were restored with financial support from the EU through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Restoration work is expected soon at the Church of Ayios Sergios and Vakhos in Neta, the Arif Bey Aqueduct in Afania, the White Mosque, and the Church of Archangel Michael in Rizokarpaso.