Replica of Aphrodite of Lefkolla installed at Paralimni-Dherynia town hall

Paralimni, Cyprus. A scientifically accurate replica of the monumental head of Aphrodite of Lefkolla has been installed at Paralimni-Dherynia town hall in a specially constructed museum showcase. The replica was produced in cooperation with Humboldt University Berlin’s department of archaeology at the municipality’s request.

New museum display

The exhibition display case and pedestal were built, designed and installed by museum and exhibition design specialist Manolis Kamasas.

Mayor George Nicolettos thanked Kamasas for the work, citing the care taken to present an artefact he described as one of the most significant records of the area’s ancient history.

Archaeological significance

The Aphrodite of Lefkolla is considered the most significant archaeological discovery to date in the wider present-day Protaras Paralimni area, which is associated with ancient Lefkolla.

Discovered in the 19th century, the monument is among the leading works of Cypriot sculpture from the 4th century BC and bears features of the late Classical Greek style.

Original monument

The bust was carved from local limestone and formed part of a statue of supernatural size, estimated to have belonged to a wider sculptural ensemble at an ancient sanctuary.

Its imposing, wall-like crown symbolises the goddess as protector of the city and its prosperity, reflecting the importance of the cult of Aphrodite in ancient Lefkolla.

The original work is displayed at the Neues museum in Berlin, Germany. The new copy marks the symbolic return of the Aphrodite of Lefkolla to the place where it was discovered.