Cultural heritage of occupied Cyprus

Facts and figures

The illegal occupation regime in the occupied northern part of Cyprus is methodically applying a long-term plan to eradicate the cultural and historical heritage of 11,000 years in the occupied territories.

77 churches have been converted into mosques.

133 churches and monasteries have been desecrated.

18 churches are used as depots, barracks or infirmaries by the Turkish occupation forces.

13 churches are used as storage rooms or hay barns.

1 church has been converted into a hotel.

1 church has been rented out as an art school.

The cemeteries of at least 25 villages have been desecrated and destroyed.

Innumerable icons, religious artefacts and all kinds of archaeological treasures have been stolen and smuggled abroad.

Illegal excavations and smuggling of antiquities is openly taking place with the involvement of the occupying forces.

Greek place names have been artbitrarily converted into Turkish names.

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