A new exhibition titled "The Myths of Cyprus", created by the Press and Information Office of the Republic of Cyprus, was inaugurated at the European Parliament in Strasbourg by the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, in the presence of the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola. The exhibition forms part of the programme marking Cyprus’s assumption of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The display features eight well‑known Cypriot myths, including the Dragons, the Knights’ Wine, the Stones of Digenis, Saint Helena and the Holy Cross, Sierolotta, the Flood, Adonis and the Castles of the Queen. These stories were selected as emblematic expressions of Cypriot cultural heritage.
In his address, the President emphasised that the exhibition was created out of a deep need to preserve, highlight and share the island’s cultural legacy. He noted that myths and traditions are not merely tales of the past but living narratives that connect generations, reflect shared values and form an essential part of cultural identity. Culture, he said, acts as a common language that brings citizens closer together and strengthens the unity of the European family while celebrating its diversity.
Mythology transcends borders
He added that as Cyprus begins its Presidency, it does so with commitment, openness and resilience, aiming to serve as a bridge between member states, institutions, ambition and implementation, and between Europe and its wider region. Quoting Jean Monnet, he recalled the idea that if Europe were to be rebuilt from the beginning, culture would be the starting point.
The Director of the Press and Information Office, Aliki Stylianou, guided the officials through the exhibition, explaining that the series The Myths of Cyprus was created out of a genuine desire to preserve and disseminate knowledge of Cypriot cultural heritage. She highlighted that mythology transcends borders and offers an accessible way to communicate values and history.
The exhibition will remain open at the Visitor Centre of the European Parliament in Strasbourg until the end of the Cypriot Presidency. According to the Press and Information Office, the centre receives more than 380,000 visitors annually
