Cyprus Railways Museum: A Journey Through Time
Discover Cyprus's railway history at the Evrychou station museum. Explore vintage trains, artifacts, and the impact of rail transport on the island's development.
The Cyprus Railways Museum, nestled in the village of Evrychou in the Troodos Mountains, offers a captivating glimpse into the history of rail transport in Cyprus. The museum is located in the beautifully restored former train station of Evrychou, which was once the western terminus of the Cyprus Government Railway (CGR). This narrow-gauge railway was a crucial infrastructure project during the British colonial era, operating from 1905 to 1951. It stretched 122 kilometers, linking Famagusta on the east coast with Nicosia in the center and Evrychou in the Troodos Mountains, serving 39 stations, stops and halts. Inside the museum, visitors can explore a rich collection of railway artifacts, including original documents, photographs, drawings, and maps. Scale models of the locomotives, rolling stock, and stations provide a detailed representation of the CGR's infrastructure. Exhibits showcase various aspects of railway operations, from the engineering challenges of constructing the line to the daily lives of railway workers and passengers. One of the highlights is the restored Wagon 152, displayed in the courtyard. The Evrychou station itself holds a unique place in the CGR's history. Completed in 1915, it marked the final extension of the railway line, connecting the remote mountainous region with the rest of the island. The station served as a vital hub for the local community, facilitating the transport of agricultural products, timber, and minerals from the Troodos Mountains to the coastal towns. The museum also delves into the reasons for the CGR's eventual closure. Despite its initial success, the railway faced increasing competition from road transport after World War II. The rising popularity of automobiles and trucks, combined with the high operating costs of the railway, led to its financial decline. In 1951, the Cyprus government made the difficult decision to shut down the CGR, marking the end of an era in Cypriot transportation history. Visiting the Cyprus Railways Museum offers an opportunity to experience the charm of Evrychou village. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the village, admire the stone houses and narrow streets, and experience the hospitality of the local community.
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience and more personalized attention from the staff.
- Check the museum's official website for any special events or workshops that may coincide with your visit.
- Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum and its offerings.
A brief summary to Cyprus Railways Museum
- 2VRV+MG8, Evrychou, CY
- +35722933010
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Nicosia, take the Cyprus Public Transport bus route 405 to Evrychou. The bus departs from the Chilonos - Michail Paridi station and arrives at the Evrychou Fire Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, with buses running every few hours. A single ticket costs between €2 and €4. From the Evrychou Fire Station bus stop, walk approximately 500 meters to the museum.
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Driving
If driving from Nicosia, head southwest on the A9, then follow signs for the B9 towards Evrychou. The journey is approximately 56 km and takes about 57 minutes. Once in Evrychou, follow local signs to the Cyprus Railways Museum. Free parking is available near the museum.
