The Myths of Cyprus exhibition has opened at the Kastelliotissa mediaeval hall in Nicosia, blending popular imagination with cutting-edge technology.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
- The Myths of Cyprus exhibition has opened at the Kastelliotissa mediaeval hall in Nicosia, blending popular imagination with cutting-edge technology.
Interactive Display of Cypriot Folklore
Inaugurated on Monday by Philippa Karsera Christodoulides, the wife of the president, this exhibition marks a continuation of the ‘Myths of Cyprus’ short film series produced by the Press and Information Office (PIO). The films, which premiered in October 2024, feature 14 stories from Cypriot folklore and are available online.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Bridging the Past with the Present
The first lady highlighted the exhibition’s role in connecting historical narratives with contemporary technology. “The Myths of Cyprus invite us to pass the threshold of a world in which the legendary co-exists with the familiar,” she stated. She emphasised the importance of these myths in revealing truths that are often difficult to articulate.
3D Creations Bring Myths to Life
A key highlight of the exhibition is the 3D representations of mythical figures from Cypriot history. Visitors can encounter characters such as Dighenis, Sierolotta, the Kalikantzari, and Regina. The first lady remarked, “Through these unique stories, the settings of our villages, the graphic reproductions, three-dimensional creations, and the use of visual reality, these narratives acquire life, new form and a new dynamic. This bridges the past with the technological capabilities of the present, allowing the young to receive these messages in their own language.”
A New Language of Myths
Aliki Stylianou, PIO director, explained that the team sought innovative methods to connect with audiences. “We resorted to the international language of mythology – the myths. We realised that this was an inexhaustible source of wisdom, rooted in the essence of the people who lived and created in Cyprus.”
Collaborative Effort Behind the Exhibition
Stylianou expressed her appreciation for all those who contributed to bringing the exhibition to fruition, including engraver Chambis Tsangaris, who provided a unique visual interpretation of the Kalikantzari. She also acknowledged the efforts of the film director Markos Kassinos, researcher Iosif Hadjikyriakos, anthropologist Ioanna Panteli, and cartoon designer Ioannis Filiastidis, who collectively animated the exhibition’s characters.
International Recognition of Cypriot Myths
The Myths of Cyprus films have been showcased beyond the island, including a screening at the University of Sienna in Italy. Associate professor Luca Bombardieri highlighted the exhibition’s innovative approach with its immersive technologies. “Through carefully designed structures, three-dimensional models, and immersive virtual reality, these myths speak again to us,” he said.
Myths as Living Narratives
Professor Bombardieri articulated a profound concept at the heart of the exhibition: that myths are more than mere ancient stories; they are living narratives that connect generations and define cultural identity. By integrating contemporary technology, this exhibition allows ancient stories to continue their journey into the future.
Lessons for the Young
The first lady reiterated the significance of myths as a foundational language for imparting wisdom to children. “The myths were the first language with which man spoke about the big questions of existence. It is often the first language with which an adult talks to a child, conveying knowledge, experience, wisdom, and imagination. Sometimes, these myths conceal our greatest truths,” she remarked.
Exhibition Details and Visiting Information
The Myths of Cyprus exhibition is open to the public until February 25 at the Kastelliotissa mediaeval hall, situated in the Paphos Gate area of Nicosia. Visitors can explore the exhibition on Wednesdays and Fridays from 16:00 to 19:30, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 to 13:00.
Community Engagement
Notable attendees at the exhibition’s opening included Culture Deputy Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou, Social Welfare Deputy Minister Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellina, Nicosia district governor Constantinos Yiorkadjis, and Nicosia mayor Charalambos Prountzos. Their presence underscores the importance of the event in promoting cultural heritage and engaging the community.
