Xylofagou, Cyprus. The Big Potato cultural landmark in Xylofagou in the Larnaca district toppled from its stand over the weekend due to extreme weather conditions. The municipality said on Monday morning that it had not yet been fixed.
Weather-related damage
According to the Facebook page ‘The Big Potato Cyprus’, prevailing winds and rain on Saturday and Sunday caused the statue to fall off its stand. The municipality told the Cyprus Mail on Monday morning: “The potato has not been fixed yet.”
Background and design
The trademark monument was inspired by ‘The Big Fish’ statue in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and was designed by Xylofagou community leader George Tasou. Erected in October 2021, the fiberglass potato measures 4.9m in height and is dedicated to an area known for its red-soil potatoes.
Public reaction and past incidents
The artwork sparked debates and witty comments on social media. One tourist described his visit by saying, “I’ve seen the Burj Khalifa, I have gazed upon the Colosseum, and I once stepped foot onto the Eiffel tower – but nothing prepared me for the life altering majesty of the Big Potato,” adding further remarks about his reaction at the site.
The monument has drawn mixed responses, being praised by some as a must-see and criticised by others. Soon after it was erected in 2021, it was defaced with a football slogan, “Anola Μ94 F.G.”, prompting the community to proceed with installing a surveillance system to protect the Big Potato.
How do you think the municipality should protect the Big Potato monument from future damage?
