A Short History of Cypriot Archeology

The rich history of Cypriot archaeology spans over two centuries, revealing the island's fascinating past and its significance in the ancient world. The journey began in the 1800s when the first archaeological expeditions to Cyprus took place, setting the stage for a series of remarkable discoveries and the establishment of the island's dedicated archaeological institutions.

One of the most notable figures in the early days of Cypriot archaeology was Luigi Palma di Cesnola, an Italian-American diplomat who served as the American consul to Cyprus from 1865 to 1877. During his tenure, Cesnola conducted extensive excavations across the island, amassing an impressive collection of ancient artifacts. His discoveries included the renowned "Cesnola Collection," which comprised over 35,000 objects ranging from prehistoric to medieval times. Although his methods were later criticized for their lack of scientific rigor, Cesnola's work nonetheless brought Cypriot archaeology to the attention of the international community.

Following Cesnola's exploits, the late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a surge in archaeological interest in Cyprus. The Swedish Cyprus Expedition, led by Einar Gjerstad between 1927 and 1931, marked a significant milestone in the island's archaeological history. The expedition conducted systematic excavations at various sites, including the ancient city of Soli and the Neolithic settlement of Khirokitia. Gjerstad and his team's meticulous work laid the foundation for a more scientific approach to Cypriot archaeology, and their findings contributed significantly to our understanding of the island's prehistoric and early historical periods.

During this time, Cyprus was under British colonial rule, which had a profound impact on the development of Cypriot archaeology. The British authorities recognized the importance of preserving and studying the island's rich archaeological heritage, and in 1935, they established the Department of Antiquities. This institution was tasked with overseeing archaeological research, conservation, and museum management on the island.

However, the Department of Antiquities' early years were marked by controversy, as it engaged in the sale of Cypriot artifacts to foreign institutions and private collectors. This practice, which continued until the late 1960s, was driven by the need to generate funds for the department's operations and the belief that sharing Cypriot artifacts with the world would promote the island's cultural heritage. While this approach is now considered unethical and detrimental to the integrity of archaeological sites and collections, it was not uncommon during that era.

As Cyprus gained independence in 1960, the Department of Antiquities underwent significant changes. The sale of artifacts was gradually phased out, and the focus shifted towards the preservation, study, and display of Cypriot antiquities within the island's own museums. The Cyprus Museum in Nicosia, which had been established in 1882, became the primary repository for the island's archaeological treasures, showcasing the rich history of Cyprus from the Neolithic period to the Roman era.

In the decades following independence, Cypriot archaeology continued to flourish, with both local and international archaeologists conducting excavations and research across the island. Significant discoveries were made at sites such as Kourion, Amathus, and Palaepaphos, shedding light on the island's role in the ancient Mediterranean world and its interactions with neighboring civilizations.

One of the most remarkable finds in recent Cypriot archaeological history was the discovery of the Neolithic site of Shillourokambos in the 1990s. Excavations at this site revealed the earliest known evidence of human presence on the island, dating back to around 10,500 years ago. The findings at Shillourokambos have provided invaluable insights into the early settlers' way of life, their agricultural practices, and their connections with the mainland.

Today, Cypriot archaeology continues to thrive, with ongoing excavations, research projects, and international collaborations. The Department of Antiquities, now under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Works, plays a crucial role in safeguarding and promoting the island's archaeological heritage. In addition to overseeing archaeological sites and museums, the department actively engages in public outreach and education, ensuring that the fascinating story of Cyprus's past is accessible to both locals and visitors alike.

The history of Cypriot archaeology is a testament to the island's rich cultural heritage and its enduring significance in the study of the ancient world. From the early days of Cesnola's excavations to the present-day scientific investigations, the journey of Cypriot archaeology has been marked by remarkable discoveries, challenges, and triumphs. As we continue to unravel the secrets of Cyprus's past, we gain a deeper appreciation for the island's unique place in history and its contributions to our understanding of human civilization.