Cultural Centre “To Skali”

The Cultural Centre “To Skali” is the most dynamic project, and the pride of the Municipality and the basic infrastructure for the cultural upgrade of Aglantzia. It is the cultural identity of Aglantzia and a point of reference for the whole of Cyprus. It achieved its purposes and mission which were the vibrant cultural contribution to the local residents, and the revival of Old Aglantzia and the communication with the wider society.

Taking very seriously into consideration the gradual morphological formation of the area, all the functions of the centre (open-air square, amphitheatre, “Caves”, exhibition area, restaurant, bar, churches of Saint George and Virgin Mary, old Aglantzia cemetery, parking) fit in the natural environment and are aligned into stepped levels, with the open-air square as the core in the heart of the complex.

The architects tried to keep the morphology of the natural material of the caves pure, maintaining their natural state, without many interventions, using simple materials such as concrete, terracotta, and bare glass. The artificial introduction of water into the caves adds a metaphysical feeling to the place.

Since its opening day (1992), the Cultural Centre has hosted several notable events, such as concerts with notable local and foreign bands, theatrical groups, group exhibitions, conferences, Open University lectures and much more.

It is a multi-award winner architectural work:

• First State Award in the category of Remarkable Architectural Project, 1995
• Included in the RICS Award Shortlist for the 2000 RICS Award
• Distinction at the seventh World Triennial of Architecture, Sofia, 1994

It is the work of Architects I. Ioakeim and A. Loiza, after a Pancyprian Open Competition.

The inauguration was held by the Acting- President of the Republic of Cyprus, Speaker of the House of Representatives Alexis Galanos, during the Mayoralty of Andreas Petrou, on September 25, 1992.