The capital of Cyprus is actively building a new archaeological museum, which will become the country’s largest cultural center. The project is estimated at €144 million (excluding VAT) and provides for the creation of a modern museum complex with high energy standards and bioclimatic design.
The main building of the museum has already taken shape: the first concrete slab has been laid and massive vertical columns about 80 meters long have been installed. The project is being implemented by the consortium ” Iacovou – Cyfield (M) Joint Venture ”, and the construction completion date is scheduled for 2027.
The new museum will include 5,500 m² of permanent exhibitions, 1,000 m² of temporary exhibitions, 2,000 m² of workshops for restoration and storage of collections, and 5,000 m² of storage space. Visitors will have access to an amphitheater, a restaurant, underground parking, and a 7,000 m² area with a fountain and green areas.
Particular attention is paid to ecological development. The bioclimatic design of the building provides for natural shading, energy-saving technologies and the installation of photovoltaic panels. This will allow the museum to meet high European energy efficiency standards .
Financing and strategic importance
The project is financed by loan agreements signed between Cyprus, the European Investment Bank and the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEDB). The investment amounted to €72 million from each of the financial institutions.
The future museum will become a cultural calling card for Cyprus, putting the country back on the map of leading archaeological centres in Europe. The opening of the site is expected to strengthen Nicosia’s position as a tourist and educational destination, as well as create new jobs and opportunities for the local community.
The idea of creating a new archaeological museum emerged back in 2016, when an international architectural competition was announced. The winner was the Theoni bureau Xanthi XZA Architects . After a number of delays related to the pandemic, the construction contract was signed in 2022, with the first works starting in 2023.
The new archaeological museum in Nicosia will unite history, science, education and leisure under one roof. It will not only be a place to store unique artefacts, but also a modern platform for cultural exchange and international cooperation.
