Department of Antiquities demands removal of metal canopies in Kato Paphos harbour

The Cyprus Department of Antiquities has called for the dismantling of metal canopies installed on the waterfront of the old port of Kato Paphos. The department said the structures were erected without the mandatory approval of the archaeological service, even though the area is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The essence of the conflict:
• The new metal canopies were installed in front of the port administration buildings opposite the medieval castle. The Paphos municipality planned to use them to replace the mismatched old restaurant awnings and give the waterfront a unified style.
• Critics of the project, including the Chloraka Cultural and Environmental Group, said the bulky structures disrupt the historic appearance of the harbour, obscure the traditional facades of the buildings and reduce public space.

The position of the department and activists:
• The Department of Antiquities confirmed that its remarks during construction were only partially taken into account, and that no preliminary consultations with archaeologists were held before the work began.
• Archaeologists and environmental activists are calling for the metal canopies to be completely removed in order to restore the waterfront to its original appearance and preserve the historic character of the protected area.