Overview:

The Paphos Ethnographic Museum in Cyprus is an ethnological museum dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of the unique culture and history of Paphos and the wider region. Located in the city of Paphos, the museum displays the traditional costumes, household objects, tools, and traditional products used in past times. It also presents buildings and workshops, traditional activities, folk art, and photographs. The museum serves to foster the appreciation of Cyprus' history and culture, encouraging meaningful dialogue between the generations of Cypriots. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cyprus
Prominent Features:

1. Located near the city center 2. Over 3,000 exhibits of artifacts and items which tell the story of local living culture and customs 3. Displays artifacts from the 12th century BC up until the modern era 4. Features exhibits on topics such as traditional costume, pottery, tools, religious objects, customs, folklore, and customs related to different seasons and celebrations 5. Guided tours available to help visitors learn about the exhibits and the local history 6. The museum also has a café, souvenir shop, and an auditorium for cultural events This national monument of Cyprus portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Paphos Ethnographic Museum in Cyprus was founded in 1973 by the then Director-General of Antiquities, Dr. Sophocles Hadjisavvas. It was originally located in the old police station in Ktima Square and it was the first museum of its kind in the wider region of Eastern Mediterranean. It contains a collection of regional artifacts, photographs and historical documents that tell the story of Paphos – its traditional lifestyle, customs and culture. The museum was relocated in September 1999 to the remains of a large home dating from the Ottoman period and located in the area adjacent to the Agora in Paphos, along the seafront. It now consists of two stories with each featuring a unique and separate theme enabling visitors to get a better understanding on past and present life styles in the area. The first floor demonstrates traditional rural life in the area while the second floor is dedicated to Paphos and its maritime activities. One can learn about the different aspects of local customs and culture, such as the use of traditional handicrafts, traditional clothing, festivities, traditional beliefs, traditional occupations and local lifestyles of Paphos in the past. It also includes a reconstruction of a typical rural house, a local shop, an old winery and folk art exhibits. Overall, the museum presents a comprehensive view into past and present lifestyles of the town of Paphos, highlighting important aspects such as customs, tradition, agriculture, fishing, trade and handicrafts. Paphos Ethnographic Museum remains a vivid and important ethnographical repository in the contemporary context of tourist Europe. It should be visited by all those wishing to experience the unique cultural heritage of this beautiful locality of Cyprus. You must visit one of these historical places in Cyprus on your Cyprus tour

Interesting facts:

1. The museum was established in 2015 to display the traditional life of the people in the old town of Paphos. 2. The museum is housed in the 18th century building of the Saviour Church. 3. Visitors can observe traditional artifacts and costume pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries in the museum. 4. The museum displays interesting traditional pottery, furniture, utensils, copper vessels, wooden chests, handicrafts as well as everyday items associated with the Cypriot rural life. 5. There is an outdoor courtyard which showcases several examples of traditional village architecture, including a traditional Cypriot kitchen, stone oven, and water well. 6. The museum also houses a collection of religious artifacts including icons, old books and crosses. 7. The museum regularly participates in scientific conferences, publishes books and articles and provides educational activities for students and researchers. 8. The museum is dedicated to protecting and preserving the cultural heritage of the Paphos region and is part of the revitalization process of the old town. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cyprus with your friends and family.