The placement of the scientifically accurate replica of the monumental head of Aphrodite of Lefkolla in a specially constructed museum showcase and exhibition pedestal has been completed, with the appropriate specifications for the safe and elegant presentation of a work of particular archaeological and historical importance for the region.
The design, construction and installation were undertaken by Mr. Manolis Kamasas, an expert in the design and construction of museums, exhibition spaces and environmental information centers, as well as in special constructions and museum display cases.
The Mayor of Paralimni - Deryneia congratulated Mr. Kamasas for the excellent work, highlighting the special care with which the construction was designed, so as to appropriately highlight one of the most important documents of the ancient history of the place.
The Aphrodite of Lefkolla is the most important archaeological find to date associated with ancient Lefkolla, which is located in the wider area of present-day Protaras Paralimni. The monumental head was discovered in the 19th century and is among the top creations of Cypriot sculpture of the 4th century BC, bearing characteristics of the Greek style of the late Classical period.
Carved from local limestone, it was part of a statue of supernatural size, which is estimated to have been part of a wider sculptural ensemble of an ancient sanctuary. A particular feature of the figure is the imposing wall-shaped crown, a symbol of the goddess as the protector of the city and its prosperity, an element that demonstrates the prominent role of the cult of Aphrodite in ancient Lefkolla.
The original work is currently on display at the Neues Museum in Berlin. In collaboration with the Department of Archaeology of Humboldt University, a scientifically accurate copy was created, at the request of the Municipality of Paralimni - Deryneia, marking the symbolic return of the Aphrodite of Lefkolla to the place where it was discovered.
