In Nicosia, a fierce dispute broke out about the plans for the approval of the construction of high -rise buildings near the historical gate of Famagusta, and Cyprus archaeologists warn of irreversible damage to the medieval appearance of the city.
The Association of Archaeologists of Cyprus (CAA) resolutely objects to what she calls the intention of the municipality of Nicosia to give green light to the construction of multi -storey buildings in this area. In the press release, the association warned that such developments would change the historical landscape and undermine the cultural integrity of the old city.
The CAA called on the authorities to adhere to existing laws and take into account the opinions of experts in order to ensure the protection of the cultural heritage of Nicosia. Anxiety arises at a critical moment when the city claims the title of European cultural capital.
During a recent meeting with the Department of Antiquities, the association was informed about the plan of the municipality to allow the construction of high -rise buildings near the intersection of Salamin and Larnaka Avenues. Currently, in this area there is a restriction in height of eight floors, but there are fears regarding the potential expansion of the city beyond these limits.
Caa called this problem “extremely critical and alarming”, repeating its decisive disagreement with large -scale interventions in historically sensitive areas. The group warns that such events will worsen the unique medieval nature of Nicosia, setting financial interests above the preservation of culture.
According to Cyprus legislation, any development near the ancient monument requires special permission. The Department of Antiquities has a legitimate mandate on an assessment of whether such projects have an impact on protected objects. CAA insists that urban planning bodies should respect the expert recommendations of the Department, taking into account its role as the guardian of the cultural heritage of the island.
The Association also claims that large construction proposals should undergo a collective and multidisciplinary assessment, and not depend on the discretion of municipal or city planning bodies.
“Changes in planning rules should be based on carefully thought out policy and clear strategic planning, and not dictated by investors' interests,” the statement said.
Archaeologists also emphasize that the municipality of Nicosia is obliged to protect the historical identity of the city. Unregulated high -rise construction, they say, contradicts this responsibility and threatens the attractiveness of the capital as a cultural direction.
Since Nicosia seeks to get the title of the European capital of culture, the CAA warns that the urban expansion should correspond to long -term cultural and social priorities, and not short -term economic benefits. The Association calls for the immediate actions of the government to protect historical buildings, which are an integral part of the city’s architectural heritage.
“The uncontrolled loss of such buildings due to chaotic urban development and pressure of investors jeopardizes not only the identity of the city, but also the connection of its inhabitants with their history and heritage,” the statement said.
The Office of Civil Aviation Nicosia called on the municipality and state authorities to take the recommendations of experts and recognize the concern of the public regarding buildings that violate laws on the protection of cultural heritage and distort the historical appearance of the city.
“Such city projects do not comply with the principles of sustainable development and balanced growth,” the association says, warning that they can also damage the quality of life of the inhabitants.
Source: Cyprus-Mail.com
