Project summary:

Cyprus has a rich and diverse cultural heritage shaped by the many civilizations that have inhabited the island throughout history. This heritage belongs to all Cypriots—and to humanity as a whole—regardless of its origin.

Since 2010, the United Nations Development Programme and the European Commission have supported the bi-communal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage (TCCH) in preserving Cyprus’s cultural heritage.

This effort is currently in its ninth phase, under the programme Support to Cultural Heritage Monuments of Great Importance for Cyprus. The programme aims to strengthen the TCCH’s work by supporting conservation and emergency safeguarding projects. These projects contribute to peacebuilding and help bring communities together around their shared heritage.

As stated by the TCCH on 6 May 2009:

“The Cultural Heritage Technical Committee believes that it is the primary responsibility of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots to protect the endangered cultural heritage of the island, and that it is important for these monuments to be preserved, not only because they are important symbols for both Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots, as well as for humanity, but also because they have an intrinsic value of their own.”

The foundation for the TCCH was laid on 21 March 2008, when Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders reached an agreement under the auspices of the United Nations. This agreement established the Committee to recognize, promote, and protect Cyprus’s diverse cultural heritage.

The TCCH is supported by an Advisory Board of archaeologists, architects, art historians, and town planners from both communities. All decisions are made in accordance with the principles agreed upon by the two Leaders and the Committee’s defined mandate.

The Committee provides a joint, practical framework for preserving, protecting, and restoring cultural heritage. This includes research, studies, and surveys. The TCCH sees cultural heritage protection as a vital part of building cooperation between the two communities—best achieved through collective efforts. It also views heritage preservation as a catalyst for sustainable development and mutual understanding.

Initially, 40 sites requiring emergency care and conservation were identified and approved by the Leaders. Over time, more monuments of significant historical value or notable size have been added. The selection process prioritizes archaeological importance, historical significance, societal relevance, and educational potential.