Two Distant Worlds

The Department of Antiquities, Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works, announces the opening of the temporary exhibition “The Qin-Han Dynasties of China and Roman Cyprus: Aspects of Life of Two Distant Worlds” at the Archaeological Museum of the Lemesos District, on Monday the 28th of September 2015 at 19.00.

The mutual organization of archaeological exhibitions between the Republic of Cyprus and the People’s Republic of China was agreed during the visit of the Chinese Deputy Minister of Culture in Cyprus, during October 2013. At that time a bilateral Agreement was signed, concerning the prevention of theft, of illicit excavations and of illegal import and export of cultural goods between the two countries. It must be stressed that it is the first time Cyprus welcomes archaeological artifacts from another country. This exhibition is therefore very important, since it reminds us that antiquities can stimulate dialogue and mutual understanding with peaceful means.

The Qin and Han Dynasties, with a life span of over four centuries, were important periods of Chinese history and have played a vital role in the evolution and shaping of the traditional Chinese culture. The Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE) was very short but it signals the beginning of China's imperial era, after the unification of various rival states across central China. The Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE) was one of the longest-life Chinese dynasties and is comparable in terms of power and prestige, to its almost contemporary Roman Empire. It is considered a golden age in Chinese history, especially in arts, politics and technology. All subsequent Chinese dynasties looked back to the Han period as an inspiring model. The Han Dynasty has influenced the East just like Greece has influenced the West.

Cyprus has lost its strategic significance under the domination of the Roman Empire (58 BCE-395 CE), as it was under the status of pax romana. Public buildings (theaters, baths, gymnasia, etc.) and luxurious villas with mosaic floors, consist the most impressive testimonies of the Roman presence on the island. In this exhibition, objects from both civilizations are displayed one next to the other, arranged in three categories, in an original as well as daring effort to bring together, under the same roof, Two Distant Worlds.

Opening Hours
Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 16:00