Nicosia is, without any doubt, a museum capital of Cyprus. Here guests of the city can enjoy the cultural heritage of the island in its fullness and appreciate works by world-famous and young painters, sculptors, and other artists.
What are the best art museums in Nicosia? We are going to describe 5 of them that are, from our point of view, most important, in the following review.
1
CVAR, the Centre of Visual Arts and Research
The Centre of Visual Arts and Research (CVAR) is conveniently located on Ermou street not far from the historical centre of the city. The exposition is based on works of art and objects collected by Severis family: from painting and traditional costumes to old posters with images of famous architectural landmarks of the island.
The biggest collection of paintings in Cyprus is exhibited in the Centre: over 1500 works, that were in some way inspired by the island. Other galleries feature books, old photographs and other printed materials, and countless memorabilia objects.
The Balthazar cafe and lounge bar is located on the roof. A detailed description of the CVAR galleries, as well as an interview with its founder, can be found at the link.
2
A.G. Leventis Art Gallery
The Leventis Gallery is also located in downtown Nicosia. It occupies a modern multifunctional building with apartments on the top.
One of the most impressive art collections in Cyprus is exhibited here; it includes works by Cypriot, Greek, and Parisian artists. The Parisian part of the exposition is located in recreated in details room of a collectioner who museum is named after — Leventis.
Educational programs and tours for the whole family are held in the museum on a regular basis. The Gallery is also known for supporting young Cypriot artists by holding temporary exhibitions and workshops.
More about the gallery.
3
NiMAC, The Municipal Arts Centre
NiMAC Art Center is a platform for modern art exhibitions located in the renovated building of the Old Powerhouse which is itself a perfect example of industrial architecture, Both local and European artists are hosted here.
Be sure to stop by an art salon, where you can buy unique souvenirs and art books, and an unusual library where visitors can look through exhibition catalogues, archive materials, and rare books.
Read more here.
4
Zampelas Art Museum
Zampelas Art Museum in Nicosia was founded by Loukia and Michael Zampelas and features their private collection: more than 1200 works of art, including masterpieces by Picasso and Dali. Paintings by Cypriot, Greek, and Russian painters are also exhibited here.
Temporary exhibitions, educational programs, workshops and cultural events are regularly held at the museum. It also houses a library, an art salon, and a gift shop.
Read more here.
5
Western European Art Gallery
Western European Art Gallery in Nicosia is a part of Archbishop Makarios III Cultural Foundation. The collection includes paintings by Greek, Cypriot, and Western European artists: Sebastiano del Piombo, Claude Lorrain, Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres, Théodore Jacques Ralli, Yorgos Buzianis, Adamantios Diamantis, Telemachos Kanthos, and many others.
Read more here.
