The Centre of Visual Arts and Research, widely known as CVAR, is a museum and research centre in Nicosia’s old city. Created by the Costas and Rita Severis Foundation, it explores the cultural history of Cyprus through the perspectives of artists, travellers, photographers and the island’s different communities.
History through visual culture
The permanent exhibition brings together more than one thousand paintings made by travellers who visited Cyprus between the eighteenth and twentieth centuries. Costumes, textiles, memorabilia, films and objects extend the display across four floors. Greek Cypriot, Turkish Cypriot, Armenian and Latin traditions are represented, reflecting the island’s multicultural heritage.
Archives and research
CVAR also holds a photographic archive of more than forty thousand images dating from the 1880s to the 1970s, alongside books, documents, films and other archives. The research centre supports scholars and hosts discussions and projects on history, memory, peaceful coexistence and understanding among communities.
Education and access
Workshops and programmes are offered to families, children and school groups. The building at 285 Ermou Street is step-free and served by a lift. Opening days change with the season: the official information lists Tuesday to Sunday in winter and Monday to Saturday in summer.