Larnaca museum is expected to reopen early next year after its renovation, Transport Minister Yiannis Karousos said on Monday.

The minister visited the museum with the head of the antiquities department to inspect the renovation work, which has been criticised for taking too long and keeping the facility closed for a long time.

According to a written statement, Larnaca mayor Andreas Vyras and officials from the town’s tourism board and business chamber also had the opportunity to view the work in the two renovated wings and the new display hall dedicated to sarcophagi.

The exhibition is divided into sections that tell stories about the daily lives of the ancient residents of the island, their art and rituals.

One wing covers the years between 8000 BCE and the 12th century BCE with a rich collection of artefacts while the other one includes a hall dedicated to ancient Kition. Another hall is dedicated to the sanctuaries of Mesaoria, where life-size statues can be seen.

Karousos said the museum is expected to reopen its doors in January 2022. Entrance will be free and there will be access for people with disabilities.