**Evkaf Objects to Beer Festival at Larnaca’s Zouhouri Square**
Larnaca, Cyprus – The Turkish Cypriot religious endowment foundation, Evkaf, has voiced its concerns regarding the organization of a beer festival in Zouhouri Square, a location that houses the historic Zouhouri mosque complex. In a statement released through Turkish Cypriot online media, Evkaf expressed disappointment over the event, emphasizing the need to respect the historical and religious significance of the site.
Evkaf's statement highlighted that local residents had expressed their desire for the festival to be relocated to a different venue, indicating a community sentiment that prioritizes the preservation of the mosque's dignity. The foundation urged the Larnaca municipality and relevant authorities to exercise greater sensitivity in future event planning, particularly when it involves sites of cultural and religious importance.
The Zouhouri mosque complex is recognized as a significant cultural heritage site and has been included in conservation efforts coordinated by the bicommunal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage. This initiative, supported by the UN Development Programme (UNDP), aims to safeguard and preserve important historical landmarks across the island.
Recent conservation works at the Zouhouri Tekke were completed in February 2022, with a formal completion event taking place on March 23, 2023. These efforts were part of a broader initiative that included the Tuzla Hammam, showcasing the commitment to maintaining the historical and cultural integrity of the area.
Additionally, the redevelopment of Zouhouri Square, a separate project undertaken by the Larnaca municipality, was inaugurated in January 2023. This project aimed to enhance the square's functionality and aesthetic appeal, but it has also drawn attention to the balance between modern events and the preservation of historical sites.
As discussions continue regarding the beer festival, Evkaf's objections reflect a growing concern among community members about the intersection of cultural heritage and contemporary public events. The foundation's call for sensitivity and respect resonates with the ongoing efforts to protect and celebrate the rich history of Cyprus.