A PRESERVATION OF CYPRIOT ARTS & CRAFTS
FOUNDED IN 1937
The Society of Cypriot Studies founded the Cyprus Folk Art Museum in 1937, with the aim of preserving and promoting the traditional arts and crafts of Cyprus. It is one of the oldest museums on the island and its collection of exhibits has grown immensely. Consisting of more than 5,000 exhibits, the museum displays a wide range of artefacts and objects that offer a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the island, whilst offering a treasure trove of traditional Cypriot culture and heritage. The museum has on display examples of pottery, textiles, woodcarvings and metalwork, and the museum acts as a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of the Cypriot people of old.
THE OLD ARCHBISHOPRIC
The old Archishopric has an interesting and varied history of its own and its stark Gothic architecture dates back to the 13th century when the construction of a monastery began on the site for the monks of the French Benedictines, who arrived in Cyprus shortly after Cyprus’s new Lusignan rulers. The order of Saint John Hospitallers later added a church, which they dedicated to their patron saint of Saint John within the grounds and Hugo the 1st, a Lusignan king of Cyprus was buried within the grounds. The Greek Orthodox Church took ownership of the buildings during the Byzantine era and the square where the old Archbishopric is situated is named after Archbishop Kyprianos, who was hanged by the Ottoman Turks in 1821, meeting his fate at the start of the Greek revolution of 1821. In 1961, the seat of the Archbishop of Cyprus moved to a new palace and the Archbishop donated the old Archbishopric to the Society of Cypriot Studies who are the curators of the Cyprus Folk Art Museum. During their renovations, a 16th century fresco depicting the Annunciation was uncovered on the site and this is now conserved by the Society and the Department of Antiquities. The Cyprus Folk Art Museum moved to its new home in 1964.
EXHIBITS THAT DATE BACK OVER 100 YEARS
The museum’s collection is vast and diverse, with thousands of objects on display, providing a valuable insight into the artistic and cultural practices of early Cypriot civilizations. The exhibits on display include examples of hand weaving, pottery, embroidery and lace needlework, metalwork, carpentry with intricate woodcarvings, basket weaving, leatherwork, paintings, and various antiquated tools. Its collection of pottery includes pieces dating back to the Neolithic period and the myriad of textiles offer a glimpse into the unique craftsmanship and skill of Cypriot weavers and needle workers. The woodcarvings on display are a testament to the rich tradition of woodworking in Cyprus and feature the talent and creativity of Cypriot hand carpentry of old. A wide range of metalwork, including jewellery, weapons, and normal household items are also on display, highlighting the skill and artistry of Cypriot blacksmiths and metalworkers.
CYPRIOT PAINTINGS
Much of the museum’s collection dates back to over 100 years and are from areas that are now occupied by Turkish troops. One such exhibit is the original door of the church of Saint Mamas situated in the North of Cyprus. The museum also features a varied collection of paintings created by Cypriot artists of their day. One such painting depicts Athanasios Diakos, a hero of the Greek revolution against the Turks in 1821 and another features Panagiotis Koutalianos, who was an athlete famous of his competitive strength and power. In 1996 a new exhibition on the ground floor of the main building opened to the public after extensive renovations. This was followed by the inauguration of the Silk Industry Exhibition on the first floor in 1999.
EDUCATION & OUTREACH PROGRAMS
The Cyprus Folk Art Museum is a living testament to the cultural heritage of Cyprus and it plays a vital role in the preservation of the Cypriot history and culture by the promotion of traditional Cypriot arts and crafts. The museum ensures that future generations continue to appreciate and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that has exhisted on the island for centuries by expanded its educational programs to everybody. The museum constantly implements a number of varied outreach programs designed to engage people of all ages interested in culture and history and regularly holds educational workshops, lectures and guided tours. All are conducted in collaboration with local schools, community groups, and tourists with the aim of raising the general awareness of its importance. In addition to this, the Cyprus Folk Art Museum constantly hosts temporary exhibitions and events that feature the work of the contemporary Cypriot artists and craftspeople of today. These exhibitions provide a platform for local artisans to feature their talents and promote traditional Cypriot arts and crafts to a wider audience, ensuring that a visit to the museum is a rewarding and enlightening experience for all to experience.
A CELEBRATION OF ENDURING BEAUTY & CREATIVITY
Today, the Cyprus Folk Art Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and traditions of Cyprus. The museum serves well both lovers of history and art, as well as visitors that are curious about Cypriot crafts and culture. The museum is a testament to the creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage of the Cypriot people through the ages and through its vast collection, offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and traditions of Cyprus. As a leading institution in the preservation and promotion of Cypriot folk art, the museum plays a vital role in ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of the island is preserved and celebrated for generations to come. A visit to the Cyprus Folk Art Museum is a journey through time and a celebration of the enduring beauty and creativity of Cypriot arts and crafts. The museum gift shop sells traditional handicrafts and small gifts inspired by tradition. Small souvenirs such as woven bookmarks, key rings, figurines, jewellery and subjective books can be obtained during a visit. The cafeteria serves a number of snacks and hot and cold beverages, offering visitors a relaxing break.
The Cypriot Folk Art Museum
Archbishopric Palace
Archbishop Kyprianos Square, Nicosia 1016
Hours of operation:
Tuesday to Friday: 9.30am to 4.00pm
Saturday: 9.00am to 1.00pm
Closed on Sunday and Monday and during Public Holidays
A minimal entrance fee is charged
Tel: 22 432 578
Intercity bus to Nicosia and then bus 42 or 13
