The Department of Architecture is initiating a public discussion on the demolition of buildings with significant architectural, aesthetic, and historical value, and will host an event on February 27, 2025, at the University's Architecture Building. 

In light of the recent demolition of the Thrasyvoulos Tryfonos House and the potential demolition of the former Teachers' Cooperative Savings Bank building in the center of Nicosia, Frederick University is actively engaging in the public discourse on the effectiveness of architectural heritage protection in Cyprus. The event is titled: "Demolitions: Erasing Architectural Identity" and will be held on February 27, at 18:00, at Frederick University's Architecture Building (13 Dimitriou Chamatsou, Pallouriotissa) in Nicosia.

Architects, faculty members from the Department of Architecture at Frederick University, and from the Departments of Architecture at the University of Cyprus and the University of Nicosia have been invited to participate in the discussion.

"Beyond preserving buildings for their aesthetic and historical value, safeguarding them also impacts the environmental quality and sustainability of cities, strengthens collective identity, promotes social cohesion, and fosters a sense of belonging. Additionally, it plays a key role in the development of a place’s character and uniqueness in the global competitive landscape," says Professor Byron Ioannou, Head of the Department of Architecture at Frederick University.

The panel discussion features architect Stella Evangelidou (Frederick University), architect Vassilis Ierides, Professor Socrates Stratis (University of Cyprus), and Professor Yiorgos Hadjichristou (University of Nicosia). The discussion will be moderated by Professor Lora Nicolaou (Frederick University).

During the discussion, questions will be raised regarding the adequacy of the framework for listed buildings, the current procedures in place, the government's stance and the limits of its jurisdiction on architectural heritage protection, as well as questions regarding society’s culture on preservation issues.

The event is open to the public. Invitation to the event is available here.

To register, follow this link.