The Photos Photiades Scientific and Cultural Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Cyprus’ cultural heritage on the international stage through its sponsorship of the exhibition “(In)Accessible Aphrodite: Her Famous Sanctuary at Idalion in Cyprus”, presented at Humboldt University in Berlin. An exhibition which recently took place in Berlin within the framework of the Presidency of the Council of the EU by the Republic of Cyprus.
The environmental initiative “Keep Growing” by Johnnie Walker Black Label & Diageo, in collaboration with PPD Global, was successfully completed through a symbolic yet meaningful reforestation action aimed at supporting the restoration of Cyprus’ fire-affected areas.
The exhibition brought Cyprus’ rich archaeological heritage to the forefront of European academic and cultural discourse, highlighting the latest discoveries from the renowned Sanctuary of Aphrodite at ancient Idalion. Developed through the long-standing collaboration between Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and the University of Cyprus, the exhibition showcased the achievements of the Berlin Idalion Project, an interdisciplinary research initiative that has generated significant new insights into one of the island’s most important ancient cult sites.
Based on recent advances in archaeological methodologies and digital technologies, the exhibition presented the results of the project through three-dimensional reconstructions, 3D-printed objects and innovative curatorial approaches based on finds from the sanctuary. Visitors were offered a unique opportunity to explore the sanctuary and engage with the findings of cutting-edge archaeological research conducted in Cyprus, while experiencing how new technologies are transforming the study, preservation and presentation of cultural heritage.
Beyond its archaeological significance, the initiative underscored the value of international scientific collaboration in advancing research and expanding public access to knowledge. Presented at one of Europe’s leading academic institutions, the exhibition strengthened the international visibility of Cypriot scholarship and highlighted the historical importance of Idalion within the wider cultural and religious landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean.
The exhibition opening was attended by the President of the Photos Photiades Foundation, Mrs Ilona Photiadou Michaelidou, alongside distinguished representatives of the academic and diplomatic communities. Speakers included Professor Giorgos Papasavvas of the University of Cyprus, Professor Stephan G. Schmid of Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Professor Philip van der Eijk, representing the Board of the Berliner Antike-Kolleg, and H.E. Maria Papakyriakou, Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to Germany.
By supporting initiatives with international reach, the Photos Photiades Foundation continues to invest in education, culture and international engagement, contributing to the promotion of Cyprus as a country with a rich cultural heritage, a vibrant academic community and a meaningful presence in global scientific and cultural dialogue.
