Tekke restoration completed

RESTORATION works have just been completed at the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque outside Larnaca, the United Nations Development Programme announced yesterday.

The Tekke is one of Islam’s most important holy sites and has long been the destination for Muslim pilgrims from Cyprus and the Middle East.

The final phase of the work to restore the historic monument began in April 2005.

“The aggressive coastal environment coupled with the ravages of time, insect infestation and water penetration had caused extensive damage to the mosque, minaret and surrounding environment,” the UNDP said.

“The main objective of the restoration work was to carry out the necessary structural strengthening to protect and preserve the integrity of the monument.”

The project was financed with a grant from the Bi-communal Development Programme and was to be done in conjunction with the Apostolos Andreas Monastery in the Karpasia peninsula. However, the Greek Cypriot side lost the funding after work was delayed due to controversy over the repairs to the monastery’s chapel.

Commenting on the completion of the work at Tekke, the UNDP’s Andrew Russell said: “The Hala Sultan Tekke project is only one example of the many achievements of the Bi-communal Development Programme, of which we are proud. This restoration demonstrates what motivates UNDP’s work in Cyprus – to help Cypriots from all communities find vehicles for co-operation that can build mutual trust. The project is also part of the UN’s continuing efforts to foster a meaningful dialogue in Cyprus and elsewhere, as a way to bring about better understanding between cultures worldwide”.

To mark the completion of the project a ceremony will be held today from 10am to midday at the Tekke where Intercollege will present a virtual tour, that will bring to life the historical and cultural significance of the monument.
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United Nations Development Programme
Action for Cooperation and Trust
PRESS RELEASE

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United Nations Protected Area, P.O. Box 21642, 1590 Nicosia
Tel: x357 22 874 777, Fax: x357 22 359 066, E-mail: [email protected], Website: www.undp-act.org

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