The Archbishopric of Cyprus has nearly completed the restoration of heritage buildings in Nicosia’s old city, over four years after their controversial demolition, with officials saying the project is entering its final phase.
The protected buildings, located on Patriarch Gregory and Isocrates streets, were demolished on February 1, 2021, and have required more than four years and three months to rebuild, with officials estimating remaining work may take “approximately one more month,” former Planning Director Athena Aristotelous told Phileleftheros.
The restored structures will house a small synodal facility offering refreshments for guests after services at the nearby cathedral, as well as a library, according to Aristotelous, who coordinates the project.
The controversial demolition occurred during the tenure of the late Archbishop Chrysostomos II, who attributed the collapse to the buildings’ age and preceding rainfall. This explanation faced public scepticism, with critics suggesting the buildings were deliberately removed to improve views of the new cathedral.
“While facing public pressure, the Archbishop committed to renovating the buildings,” Aristotelous said, adding that upon taking office, Archbishop George instructed full compliance with regulations to improve both the buildings and the surrounding area.
The restoration was initially scheduled for completion in early December 2024, allowing the buildings to be used during Christmas celebrations last year, but delays pushed the timeline into 2025.
Aristotelous acknowledged minor issues at the site, including moisture problems with external walls. The problem was identified and the contractor attributes it to the pavements through which water penetrates the external walls, she said, explaining that while the building received proper insulation, the unchanged pavements appear to be affecting the structures.
Technical consultant to the Archbishopric, Stelios Georgiou, estimated the restoration cost will exceed 1 million euros.
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