CVAR - Severis Foundation: A Cultural Oasis in Nicosia

The Centre of Visual Arts & Research (CVAR) - Severis Foundation is located on Ermou Street within Nicosia's historic walled city. Opened in 2014, CVAR is dedicated to promoting understanding, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence among all communities on the island. The foundation's home is a meticulously restored building with a rich history. Originally an Ottoman-era Khan (caravanserai), it was later transformed into a flour mill in 1953, bearing witness to the city's evolving identity. Today, it houses a unique collection amassed by Costas and Rita Severis, offering visitors a captivating journey through Cyprus's multicultural past. CVAR's collection is a treasure trove of visual and historical artifacts. Over 1,500 paintings by foreign artists who traveled to Cyprus between the 18th and 20th centuries offer a glimpse into the island's landscapes, monuments, people, and daily life as seen through the eyes of outsiders. These works provide invaluable insights into how Cyprus was perceived and portrayed during a pivotal period of its history. Beyond paintings, CVAR boasts a remarkable collection of over 500 costumes and textiles, showcasing the evolution of Cypriot dress and the diverse influences it absorbed from both East and West. These garments tell stories of tradition, adaptation, and cultural exchange, reflecting the island's strategic location at the crossroads of civilizations. The museum also houses a wealth of memorabilia from the last three centuries, offering a tangible connection to Cyprus's past. Special corners of the museum are dedicated to the island's diverse communities, including the Maronite, Armenian, Latin, and Turkish Cypriot communities, highlighting their unique contributions to the island's cultural mosaic. CVAR's commitment to education and research is evident in its extensive library and research center. The Research Centre provides free access to over 10,000 books on history, art, and travel related to Cyprus and the Near East, a large archive of manuscripts, diaries, articles, and over 20,000 old photographs of Cyprus.