The Byzantine Architecture of Cyprus

Following the success of the exhibition entitled “The Byzantine Architecture of Cyprus” through drawings and watercolours by architect Andreas Philippou, shown at the Leventis Municipal Museum where the self titled book was presented, the exhibition is now transferred to Kypriaki Gonia Gallery, in Larnaca. It will be inaugurated by His Eminence, Metropolitan of Kition Chrysostomos, on the 1st of November 2013. 7.00 pm. Dr Christodoulos Hadjichristodoulou will introduce the book to the public. Duration: 1 – 29 / 11 2013

Shown at the same venue will be a watercolour exhibition entitled “THE DESTRUCTION OF THE CYPRUS LANDSCAPE”. A total of 122 works will be on display, showcasing rare specimens of our architectural heritage within the landscape of Cyprus – all left to time’s mercy. The watercolours will be available for sale at affordable prices. Net profits will be used for benevolent purposes.

The book “THE BYZANTINE ARCHITECTURE OF CYPRUS” looks into the most important Byzantine architectural monuments found across Cyprus, spanning a period from the 9th to the 17th century, arranged according to their type. Texts for each monument are supplemented by representations. The book complements a 2006 publication entitled “BYZANTINE ARCHITECTURE IN THE TROODOS MOUNTAINS”.

Both the publication and the exhibition mark a personal contribution by Andreas Philippou, whose tremendous love for our land’s Byzantine monuments was imparted to the way in which he examined and drew them. Hundreds of drawings and watercolours of churches found in both the occupied and the free areas of Cyprus are on display, the output of a project which the author began several years ago and went on to pursue throughout his life consistently and patiently, oftentimes under adverse conditions.

Added to the end of the book is a Chronicle of visits made to the occupied areas so as to locate the Byzantine monuments. The Chronicle provides a moving account of the unique experiences and emotions derived from the trials the author had had to undergo in his quest.

It is an exceptional book which stands out for its printing perfection, its uncomplicated and eloquent texts and the numerous art works it includes, evidence of the island’s rich cultural heritage and a reminder of our duty to rescue and preserve these unique monuments of our history.

The exhibition presents the relation between text and illustration, demonstrating a unique combination of the two. At the same time, the drawings depicting the monuments stand on their own as works of remarkable quality and sensitivity, accomplished with the difficult medium of watercolour. They possess qualities of miniature, attention to detail and unwavering precision.

Through the watercolours of Andreas Philippou, these masterpieces of Byzantine art operate within the endurable relation between the Cyprus landscape and Cyprus’ lucid light.

The book constitutes a comprehensive study of the Byzantine Architecture of Cyprus and its fruition required much time and effort. The final result, this significant work, is its creator’s fair reward.

On the opening day of the exhibition the book will be available at a reduced price.

Opening Hours
Monday - Saturday: 10.00 - 13.00 & 16.30 - 20.00
Sunday: 11.00 - 14.00