Walking tours explore Nicosia’s 20th century women and difficult heritage

Several walking tours have dressed Nicosia’s cultural agenda recently, uncovering the city’s tales, past and future. Two upcoming city walks organised by Home for Cooperation explore women’s stories across the capital city and difficult heritage in Nicosia.

Coming up first is a walk on Wednesday titled Aspects of Womanhood in 20th Century Nicosia. Setting off from Home for Cooperation at 6pm, animator Marios Epaminondas will lead participants through some aspects of the lives of women in 20th century Nicosia. The walking tour will discover the role of women in society, their paths of social mobility and their achievements. The urban landscape will serve as an illustration of the stories told. Held in English and free of charge, the tour will last around two hours and will cross checkpoints to explore all parts of the city.

Come July and another walking tour in English will take place, again leaving from the Home for Cooperation and crossing the divide. Leading the tour is archaeologist and guide Antigone Michael who will take participants on a journey exploring archaeological evidence of the difficult heritage of Nicosia.

“During this tour,” say the organisers, “we will discuss the period of conservation of monuments in relation to the political situation on the island. What is the meaning of monuments, squares, modern art, maps and archaeological sites in the current society we live in?”

Along with this, the tour also questions what heritage consists of, who decides it and what the process of acknowledging heritage in a conflict environment is. “Nicosia has been the capital of Cyprus since the 11th century,” add the organisers. “Over six different political powers have passed from the 11th century until today. Let’s explore Nicosia together in our walking tour!”

City Walk: Aspects of Womanhood in 20th Century Nicosia

Walking tour with Marios Epaminondas exploring women’s stories. June 30. Home for Cooperation, Nicosia. 6pm-8pm. Free. In English. For registrations: [email protected]

Difficult Heritage in Nicosia

Walking tour with Antigone Michael on Nicosia’s heritage. July 8. Home for Cooperation, Nicosia. 6pm-8pm. €10. In English. For registrations: [email protected]