Completion of Conservation works at the Arif Bey Aqueduct

March 20, 2024

The Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage (TCCH), has completed the conservation works at the Arif Bey Aqueduct in Afanteia/Gazikoy, within the framework of the “Support to cultural heritage monuments of great importance for Cyprus”, a project fully funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

This was marked by a visit with the participation of the TCCH Co-Chairs and Members of the Advisory Board, representatives from the European Commission and UNDP, and the technical team.

Located in the Mesaoria area, the Arif Bey Aqueduct, also known as Arif Pasha, holds historical importance as it served the Arif Bey farms. While the exact date of its construction remains unknown, historical records indicate its crucial role in irrigation. The challenging terrain necessitated the elevation of the canal to facilitate the flow of water from the Yalias river/Yayla-Çakıllı dere. An underground network of interconnected wells once thrived in the area, today, remnants of the aqueduct span approximately 270 meters.

The main interventions undertaken at the site include general cleaning, removal of hazardous asbestos tube, vegetation removal, reconstruction of stone masonry to reinforce structural integrity, repointing of masonry to address weathering and erosion, plaster works inside the aqueduct channel, consolidation of the arches for structural resilience, and implementation of visitors' accessibility measures to enhance the cultural experience for all.

The completion of these vital interventions preserves the tangible heritage of Cyprus and safeguards cultural treasures for generations to come.