As part of European Archaeology Days 2026, the Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation is organising a series of events and workshops for adults, families, and children, with the aim of familiarizing them with the cultural heritage, archaeology, and history of our island, under the theme “Animals-Plants-Archaeology”
All events will take place at the Cultural Foundation in Faneromeni, in the old city of Nicosia
Friday 12/06/2026, 19:30
“Things -Animals-Plants” Themed guided tour of the Cyprus Insula exhibition
Join us to explore representations of flora and fauna on objects included in the exhibition “Cyprus Insula”. Together, we examine and discuss the significance and symbolism of animals and plants in the material culture of Cyprus, while also learning how these elements continue to shape the island’s natural landscape and remain integral to its ecosystem today.
The tour will be led by Zoe Makridou, Head of Environmental Protection and Conservation Programs at Terra Cypria, in collaboration with the exhibition curators Dr Yiannis Toumazis and Demetra Ignatiou.
Free participation / Reservation required 22128175/22128163.
Terra Cypria – The Cyprus Conservation Foundation is a non‑governmental organisation dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability.
Friday 12/06/2026, 20:30
“The World is Shrinking” (30') - Open-air documentary screening at the Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation amphitheatre
The story of the Cypriot cow comes to life on the big screen. The documentary sheds light on the fascinating yet largely unknown story of the Cypriot cow, an animal that was closely connected through the centuries with the rural population of Cyprus, ploughing the island’s soil.
The screening is organised in collaboration with the Cyprus Institute and will be followed by a discussion with screenwriter Dr. Anna Spyrou, Postdoctoral Researcher in Zooarchaeology at the Institute for Archaeological Sciences, University of Bern, and at Cyprus Institute’s STARC centre, as well as Dr. Georgia Hadjipavlou, Senior Agricultural Research Officer at the Agricultural Research Institute of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment.
Documentary Credits:
Screenplay: Anna Spyrou and Andreas Demetriou
Directed by: Markos Kassinos
Produced by: Juno12
The documentary was produced within the framework of the ARETI (Animals Resilient in Time) program, funded by the A. G. Leventis Foundation.
Image, ARETI logo © Nicolas Loucas
Free admission
Saturday 13/06/2026, 18:00-19:30
“Beings and Blooms” Creative expression workshop for adults at the Museum of the History of Cypriot Coinage
The workshop “Beings and Blooms,” draws inspiration from the depictions of animals and floral motifs found on Cypriot coins from the 6th century BC to the present day. Through a creative approach, participants will explore the connection between art, nature, and the symbols of those who ruled the island, through the numismatic history of Cyprus.
Get ready to experiment with fabrics, materials, symbols, and nature!
Facilitators: Andrea Oratiou - Archaeologist, Irini Khenkin - Cultural worker
Free admission / Reservations: 22128175/22128163
Sunday 14/06/2026, 11:00-12:30
“Allow me to introduce myself: archaeologist” - Educational program for families
The aim of the workshop is to introduce participants to the science of archaeology. Children, together with their families, will have the opportunity to engage with archaeological science, which, through the study of ancient material culture, provides access to primary sources essential for building knowledge about the past.
They will become familiar with the basic principles of archaeology as a science, as well as the main responsibilities of an archaeologist, by taking on this role themselves and discovering through excavation hidden fragments of replica clay vessels buried in the soil.
Facilitator: Rafail Charalambous-Archaeologist
For children, 8+
Free admission / Reservation required 22128175/22128163
Events and workshops will take place with observation of all necessary protection measures for the health and safety of visitors and staff and are accessible to vulnerable groups.
You can find more information on the website of the Cultural Foundation: www.boccf.org , on the official pages of the Foundation on Facebook & Instagram (@boccf)
During the events, photos and/or videos will be taken. The pictures of visitors of the events may be used for promotional purposes or may be provided to the media or uploaded on the Internet. By attending the events, the public automatically gives the organizers the right to use the photos/videos taken.
Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation
86-90 Faneromenis, 1011 Nicosia
For information: 22 128175
www.boccf.org
