Peace negotiations in progress in Cyprus and prospects for protecting abandoned built heritage
Channel: Recording Archaeology
Date: 2019-04-25

In light of the current peace negotiations in Cyprus aiming for a viable political solution, it is vital to acknowledge the built heritage sites that were neglected as a result of the conflicts between 1960 and 1974 and that have remained abandoned since, in the buffer zone. Their archaeological, architectural and historical significance is of global importance.
This paper is concerned with two sites with varied complex issues arising from the prospects for their protection – the Famagusta Franco-Byzantine churches, and Nicosia airport (an example of post-modern aviation architecture). The negotiations provide an immediate opportunity for a forum/charter by the international heritage organisations (UNESCO, ICCROM) and the relevant parties, to establish how to protect and re-implement/revive heritage that has suffered from war and years of abandonment.
Could the prospect of their revival contribute to building trust/confidence in the negotiations process?
Could recognition of World Heritage status for heritage in conflict zones ensure their protection?

Dr Maria Yioutani-Iacovides ARB AABC IHBC, conservation architect