Preserving Heritage, Sustaining Culture
As part of its commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals — particularly Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — Near East University embraces cultural sustainability as a vital pillar of development. Through exhibitions, workshops, concerts, and creative collaborations, the university works to preserve, revive, and promote Cyprus’s rich tangible and intangible cultural heritage.
By engaging students, artists, researchers, and local communities, these initiatives bridge the past and present, ensuring that traditional arts, crafts, and cultural expressions continue to inspire future generations. Each project reflects the university’s belief that cultural heritage is not only a legacy of history but also a living force for sustainable and inclusive growth.
Near East University demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting cultural heritage through a comprehensive approach that spans multiple cultural dimensions. The university actively preserves and revitalizes local and regional Cypriot traditions, ensuring that the island’s unique artistic, historical, culinary, and musical practices continue to thrive. These efforts are complemented by initiatives that highlight and strengthen national cultural identity, particularly through programs emphasizing Turkish Cypriot history, literature, and cultural expression. In addition, the university fosters an inclusive and multicultural environment by supporting and celebrating the heritage of displaced and diaspora communities, offering platforms for cultural exchange and expression. Together, these initiatives reflect an integrated and sustained dedication to cultural continuity, diversity, and shared global heritage.
Local or Regional Cultural Heritage
Lefkara Embroidery Workshop by Near East University and HASDER
Near East University’s Atatürk Faculty of Education, in collaboration with the HASDER Handicrafts Center, organized the Lefkara Embroidery Workshop from December 21 to 28, 2024, as part of its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities.
The workshop aimed to preserve and transmit Cyprus’s intangible cultural heritage, focusing on Lefkara embroidery, a traditional handcraft representing the island’s cultural identity. By teaching and documenting the embroidery techniques, patterns, and symbolism, the project contributed to safeguarding traditional knowledge and craftsmanship for future generations.
Held at the HASDER Handicrafts Center, the workshop brought together students from the Departments of Art Education and Social Studies Education, guided by faculty members and local craft experts. Participants learned about the artistic and historical aspects of Lefkara lace through hands-on practice, combining creativity with cultural learning.
This initiative fostered cultural continuity and awareness, allowing students to experience the value of heritage preservation through education and community engagement. It also strengthened collaboration between academia and civil society in promoting sustainable cultural development.
At the closing ceremony, participants received certificates acknowledging their contribution to preserving Cypriot culture and traditional arts. The event highlighted the university’s dedication to protecting and promoting local cultural heritage as an essential element of sustainable development.
Motifs Revived at the Walled City Museum
As part of its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, Near East University continues to preserve and promote Cyprus’s rich cultural heritage through creative and educational initiatives. The Walled City Museum, located near the historic Kyrenia Gate in Nicosia, has recently brought to life 2,500-year-old motifs of the Cypriot civilization through striking stained-glass artworks.
Created by artist Sinem Akın Kılınç from the Cyprus Museum of Modern Arts, the stained-glass designs were inspired by ancient archaeological artifacts, including motifs from a ceramic jug dated between 750–600 BC, as well as symbolic bird and lotus patterns representing the island’s archaic period. This artistic project revives historical motifs with contemporary techniques, ensuring that the visual language of Cyprus’s ancient heritage continues to inspire future generations.
By integrating art, history, and craftsmanship, the initiative not only beautifies the museum’s architecture but also serves as a lasting example of how universities can contribute to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. Through such projects, Near East University demonstrates its dedication to protecting local identity, supporting artists, and promoting sustainable cultural continuity within the heart of Nicosia’s historic city walls.
“The Memory of the Soil from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages” – Ceramic Heritage Exhibition
Near East University proudly hosted the retrospective ceramic exhibition “The Memory of the Soil from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages” by Turkish Cypriot artist Rauf Ersenal at the Atatürk Culture and Congress Center Exhibition Hall. Opened on July 10, 2024, by Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, the exhibition features 150 ceramic artworks spanning from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages, highlighting Cyprus’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.
Curated by Prof. Dr. Erdoğan Ergün, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts and Design and Director of GÜNSEL Art Museum, the exhibition allows visitors to explore the island’s historical continuity through carefully crafted ceramics, reflecting centuries of cultural traditions and artistic evolution. The exhibition is open to the public free of charge until July 25, 2024, providing an educational and immersive experience that preserves and promotes local artistic heritage.
Through initiatives like this, Near East University demonstrates its ongoing commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage, fostering appreciation of Cypriot art, and connecting contemporary audiences with the island’s historical legacy.
Reviving Cyprus’ 19-Civilization Heritage through Art at Near East University
In December 2024, Near East University launched an art exhibition titled “Cyprus’ 19 Civilizations Heritage Comes to Life” at the Cyprus Modern Art Museum (under the university’s auspices). The show featured 50 original works — including paintings, sculptures, ceramics and print-art — by faculty artists and museum professionals, each drawing inspiration from the deep cultural layers of the island, which has been home to 19 distinct civilizations over millennia.
The exhibition was curated by Erdoğan Ergün and held at the university’s Atatürk Culture and Congress Centre, from its opening by President Ersin Tatar on 19 December until 25 December 2024.
By presenting historical motifs and cultural narratives in a contemporary art format, the initiative contributes to safeguarding Cyprus’s intangible cultural heritage — bringing traditions, symbolism and memory into public engagement and artistic expression. This exemplifies the university’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, through the protection and revitalization of local cultural identity.
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“Melodies from Our Island” Chamber Choir Concert – Promoting Cypriot Musical Heritage
Near East University, in collaboration with the Cyprus Foundations Administration, hosted the “Melodies from Our Island” Chamber Choir Concert at the historic Bedesten Hall, a cultural landmark dating back to the 12th–16th centuries. Conducted by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Emine Kıvanç Öztuğ and featuring contributions from faculty and music education students, the concert presented a rich repertoire of traditional Cypriot melodies and contemporary music, including works by Kamran Aziz and local folk arrangements. The performance not only offered a unique musical experience in a historical setting but also emphasized the university’s commitment to preserving and promoting Cyprus’s cultural heritage, aligning with UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goals by connecting historical musical traditions with modern audiences and fostering cultural sustainability.
Keeping Cypriot Culinary Heritage Alive: Gollifa Dessert Celebrated at Near East University
As part of its commitment to preserving Cyprus’s intangible cultural heritage, students of the Gastronomy and Culinary Arts Department at Near East University prepared Gollifa, one of the island’s traditional New Year desserts, and shared it with fellow students and academics on campus. The event attracted great attention and highlighted the importance of keeping local culinary traditions alive.
Made from roasted wheat, almonds, raisins, sesame, and pomegranate seeds, Gollifa symbolizes abundance and good fortune for the coming year. The dessert, which dates back to the Byzantine period, continues to be prepared by both communities in Cyprus, reflecting shared cultural values and social solidarity. By reviving this ancient recipe, Near East University contributes to the preservation and transmission of Cypriot culinary culture to younger generations.
Dean Prof. Dr. Nesrin M. Bahçelerli emphasized that gastronomy education is not only about cooking but also about transferring culture to the future. “Keeping traditional flavors like Gollifa alive allows our students to experience and learn cultural values firsthand, strengthening their professional and cultural awareness,” she said.
"International Students Discover and Celebrate the Culinary Heritage of Cyprus at Near East University”
On November 2, 2024, the Department of Gastronomy and Culinary Arts at theFaculty of Tourism, Near East University, organized a meaningful workshop that highlighted the cultural heritage of Turkish Cypriot cuisine. The event brought together 30 international students from various countries studying at Near East University, giving them the opportunity to both learn about and prepare traditional dishes of Cyprus.
Before the practical session, a 10-minute presentation introduced the students to the rich culture and cuisine of Cyprus. Afterwards, they prepared authentic Cypriot flavors such as “Badadez Köftesi” (meatballs made with minced potatoes), “Mücendıra” (authentic Cypriot rice), and “Gullirikya” (a traditional Cypriot dessert).During the workshop, the students not only discovered new culinary techniques but also experienced the deep-rooted cultural heritage of Northern Cyprus.
Prof. Dr. Nesrin M. Bahçelerli,Dean of the Faculty of Tourism, emphasized that gastronomy plays a vital role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage stating. She also reminded that the Faculty of Tourism recently became a full member of EURHODIP which unites over 150 tourism and hospitality institutions from 39 countries across four continents. According to Prof. Dr. Bahçelerli, such initiatives not only promote Turkish Cypriot culinary heritage internationally, but also strengthen Northern Cyprus’s mission as an “education island.”
The event once again demonstrated Near East University’s commitment to providing its students—representing 143 different countries—with a comprehensive academic and cultural experience that celebrates and shares the rich cultural heritage of Cyprus with the world.
National Cultural Heritage
Near East University Hosts Panel on the Reflections of Republic Day on Turkish Cypriot Literature
On October 30, 2024, Near East University, in collaboration with the Department of Culture and the Cyprus Studies Center, organized a panel titled “Reflections of the October 29 Republic Day on Turkish Cypriot Literature.” The event brought together scholars, writers, and cultural experts to discuss the impact of national identity and historical events on Turkish Cypriot literature. Presentations were delivered by researcher-writer Eralp Adanır, Dr. Hüseyin Ezilmez, and İsmail Bozkurt, with Prof. Dr. Şevket Öznur serving as the session chair.
This panel exemplifies Near East University’s engagement in initiatives that promote the preservation and awareness of cultural heritage, fostering collaboration between academic institutions and governmental cultural bodies. By highlighting the historical and literary contributions of the Turkish Cypriot community, the event contributes to the safeguarding of cultural heritage and the promotion of sustainable cultural development.
Walled City Museum: A Living Memory in the Heart of Cyprus
Located in the historic Surlariçi (Walled City) area of Nicosia, the Walled City Museum — established by Near East University and opened to visitors in 2020 — stands as a cultural landmark designed to preserve, reflect, and celebrate Cyprus’s rich heritage. Serving not only as a museum but as a living cultural memory space, it bridges the past and present, connecting individual stories with the collective identity of Cyprus.
As Near East University, we take pride in presenting the Surlariçi City Museum as a unique cultural landmark that reflects the soul of our community and illuminates the richness of our heritage. Since its opening in 2020, the museum has continued to expand and enrich its collections each year, evolving into a dynamic cultural hub that preserves our shared memory, celebrates our artistic and historical legacy, and connects past and present for future generations.
Located in the historic Surlariçi district of Nicosia, the Surlariçi City Museum serves as a living memory center that brings together Cyprus’s thousand-year-old history, cultural richness, and collective identity. More than a traditional exhibition space, the museum bridges the past with the present through immersive displays and artistic storytelling.
Even before stepping inside, visitors are welcomed by nine three-meter bronze statues symbolizing a victorious athlete and the enthusiastic crowd celebrating the triumph. The museum terrace offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the historic Walled City, deepening the sense of connection to Cyprus’s cultural landscape.
A Journey Across Time and Culture
Spread across five floors, the museum invites visitors to explore distinct historical periods and cultural narratives. The ground floor showcases contemporary paintings and sculptures by renowned artists, while the lower level features maritime history, intricate ship models, and shadow puppets from the traditional Karagöz theater. Rich collections of swords, knives, toy cars, and postal heritage materials present an engaging reflection of daily life and craftsmanship across eras.
A rare archival collection created in collaboration with the TRNC National Archives brings together Ottoman-era manuscripts, gold-embellished books, population registers, court records, and imperial decrees. Among its most remarkable pieces are a land grant bearing Sultan Murad IV’s seal, a ceramic reproduction of a Piri Reis map, and 19th-century administrative documents.
The museum’s extensive maritime collection traces Mediterranean seafaring history from ancient civilizations to modern times, while ceiling murals throughout the building visually narrate the island’s journey from the Venetian and Byzantine periods through Ottoman and British rule to the present day.
Preserving Memory Through Realism and Art
The hyperrealistic silicone sculpture gallery brings influential figures of Cyprus Turkish history and culture to life, including Dr. Fazıl Küçük, Rauf Raif Denktaş, Osman Örek, Fehmi Ercan, and Cengiz Topel. Cultural figures such as storyteller Mehmet Ertuğ, musician Ahmet Becerikli, and the Mehmetaliler Music Group also take their place in this immersive tribute.
Additionally, the Cypriot Turkish Writers’ Bust Collection honors literary icons, including Kaytazzade Mehmet Nazım, Hikmet Afif Mapolar, Osman Türkay, Özker Yaşın, Urkiye Mine Balman, and Fikret Demirağ, highlighting the island’s literary legacy.
A Treasure of Art and Cultural Artifacts
The museum’s inventory includes more than 3,000 toy cars, over 70 sculptures, maritime artifacts, examples from the Cyprus Turkish National History Museum, Karagöz puppets, legal decrees, Ottoman-era Nicosia court records, and a rare 17th-century carpet. Paintings, engravings, linocuts, serigraphs, lithographs, woodprints, ceramics, photographs, and other valuable works enrich the museum’s artistic diversity.
A notable highlight is the Ottoman Collection, created in collaboration with the TRNC National Archives, showcasing manuscripts, imperial edicts, and population records—powerful witnesses to Cyprus’ cultural continuity. The Maritime Collection reveals the island’s deep ties with Mediterranean civilizations, while hyper-realistic silicone sculptures bring to life key figures from Cyprus Turkish history, arts, and culture.
With each floor narrating a different chapter of Cyprus’ identity—from ancient civilizations to modern times—the Surlariçi City Museum stands as a vibrant cultural landmark, honoring the island’s heritage and passing it to future generations.
In addition, Near East University, our commitment to preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage extends beyond the museum walls. In 2024 and 2025, art installations will be placed on the façades of campus buildings, alongside the restoration and preservation of century-old historical works, further reflecting our commitment to honoring and sustaining the rich cultural heritage of our land.
Preserving Our Heritage, Protecting Our Future
At Near East University, we are deeply committed to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Cyprus. In recognition of the symbolic and ecological value of the century-old olive trees — a timeless emblem of Northern Cyprus — our University has undertaken a dedicated initiative to protect and sustain them.
In cases where these historic olive trees must be removed from their original locations, they are carefully transported and preserved within our campus area, where they continue to thrive as part of our living heritage.
Since 2023, we have also been planting olive trees across various parts of the campus — both to honor our cultural legacy and to contribute to environmental sustainability by preventing soil erosion and supporting biodiversity.
Through these efforts, Near East University continues to nurture a greener, more sustainable future while safeguarding one of the most enduring symbols of our land.
In 2024, olive saplings planted across the campus became a symbol of our commitment to preserving cultural heritage and supporting environmental sustainability.
The olive trees carefully relocated from other areas in 2022 are now thriving across our campus, reflecting our commitment to preserving nature and cultural heritage.
Heritage of Displaced Communities
Sudanese Cultural Evening: By The Nile
Near East University hosted the “By the Nile” cultural evening in collaboration with the NEU Sudanese Students Association, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and social traditions of the Sudanese community on campus.
The event aimed to honor and preserve the cultural identity of Sudanese students — many of whom represent diaspora and displaced communities — by recreating traditional Nile-side social gatherings. Through the sharing of traditional tea and coffee, Sudanese music, and communal storytelling, participants were able to engage with meaningful cultural practices that reflect comfort, unity, and belonging.
By bringing cherished Nile traditions to the university environment, the program provided a space for cultural expression, strengthened ties within the Sudanese student community, and promoted multicultural awareness and appreciation among the wider campus population. The initiative reflects Near East University's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where diverse cultural identities are celebrated and preserved.