The ancient harbor of Kyrenia is witnessing a significant chapter in its history as restoration work on the Chrysopolitissa Church has officially begun. This revered religious site, nestled in one of the oldest quarters of the harbor, is set to be meticulously restored and, upon completion, will be transferred to the ownership of the Kyrenia municipality.
Kyrenia’s mayor, Murat Şenkul, has been at the forefront of this project, emphasizing the importance of preserving the city’s historical and cultural heritage. The Chrysopolitissa Church, located on a quaint street in the old harbor, is a symbol of the rich history that Kyrenia holds, and its restoration is a priority for the city’s administration.
According to Mayor Şenkul, the restoration project has been in the works for some time. Last year, a detailed plan for the restoration of Chrysopolitissa was presented to the Cultural Heritage Committee and the European Union (UNDP). This project, designed to bring the church back to its former glory, was carefully reviewed and approved. Following the completion of tender procedures, a qualified company was selected to undertake the restoration work, and the project is now fully underway.
The significance of this restoration goes beyond just the physical rebuilding of the church. It is about safeguarding a piece of Kyrenia’s cultural identity for future generations. Mayor Şenkul expressed a deep commitment to this cause, stating, “We will do everything possible to protect and preserve our historical heritage and pass it on to future generations.” His administration has also formally requested that the building be transferred to the municipality’s ownership once the restoration is complete, ensuring that it remains under local stewardship.
The financial backing for this project is substantial. The Cultural Heritage Committee and the UNDP have jointly allocated approximately 20 million Turkish liras to ensure that the restoration is conducted with the utmost care and respect for the church’s historical significance. This investment reflects the importance placed on preserving Kyrenia’s cultural landmarks.
The Chrysopolitissa Church, with its deep historical roots, is more than just a building; it is a testament to the rich tapestry of Kyrenia’s past. Its restoration marks not just the revival of a structure, but the continuation of a legacy that has endured through the centuries. As work progresses, the people of Kyrenia, and indeed all those who value cultural preservation, will be watching closely, eager to see this treasured piece of history brought back to life.
With the restoration work now in motion, the future of Chrysopolitissa looks bright. The church is set to become not just a restored monument, but a symbol of Kyrenia’s dedication to preserving its historical and cultural identity for many years to come.
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