The issue of understaffing at the Department of Antiquities and the need to address gaps in the protection of archaeological sites and monuments is raised by the Cyprus Archaeologists Association (CAA) in a statement. This follows a recent incident where visitors climbed the ancient sanctuary of Apollo Hylates in Kourion.
The CAA highlights the need to strengthen the staffing of the Department of Antiquities with scientific personnel, such as archaeologists, conservators, architects, and civil engineers, as well as technical staff, including craftsmen, builders, and technicians, to effectively carry out its work.
They refer to statements made by the Director of the Department, George Georgiou, in the media, noting that it was revealed that “the state is proceeding with the abolition of a significant number of job positions, which are essential to prevent the weakening and eventual decimation of the Department.” They also mention that similar concerns were expressed by the President of the Scientific Technical Chamber (ETEK), Konstantinos Konstantis.
Furthermore, since April 2025, the CAA has submitted its views and suggestions in writing to the Deputy Ministry of Culture and the Department of Antiquities regarding updating and restructuring the Service Plan for Archaeological Officers as part of creating a new organizational chart. Additionally, they have emphasized the need for adopting a unified framework for employment contracts for self-employed archaeologists in development projects.
The CAA adds that Cyprus has scientific potential in archaeology. However, many are often forced to seek employment abroad or turn to other professions. They note that they have not received any response from the Deputy Ministry regarding their suggestions and observations.
Regarding security conditions at archaeological sites, the CAA notes that “the absence of a closed-circuit surveillance system combined with only one guard present at one of our island’s largest archaeological sites underscores the necessity for immediate measures to prevent further such or even more unpleasant incidents.”
The association also calls on the Republic of Cyprus to take action and contribute significantly by supporting efforts by the Department of Antiquities for the proper preservation and promotion of Cyprus’s cultural heritage.
Finally, the CAA “calls on the President of the Republic of Cyprus to prioritize his political agenda on saving and preserving cultural heritage, which belongs to all of us and is a fundamental aspect of our identity and history,” as well as “to prevent the reduction of human resources at the Department and ensure its satisfactory and adequate staffing.”
