**Fitiris Assures Ayios Sozomenos Prison Will Avoid Archaeological Site**
In a recent meeting, Justice Minister Costas Fitiris and Deputy Culture Minister Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellina discussed the upcoming construction of a central prison in Ayios Sozomenos, emphasizing the commitment to preserve the area's archaeological heritage. The Justice Ministry has assured that the new facility will be located at a considerable distance from the village's significant archaeological remains.
The meeting focused on preparing a master plan for the site, where Fitiris highlighted the importance of protecting and promoting the historical and archaeological character of Ayios Sozomenos. The planned infrastructure for the prison will be confined to the northern sector of the state plot, ensuring that it does not encroach upon the archaeological remains that are a key part of the village's history.
The Deputy Culture Minister expressed agreement with the proposed plans and confirmed ongoing cooperation with antiquities authorities as the master plan and subsequent phases of the project are developed. This collaboration aims to ensure that the cultural and historical integrity of the area is maintained throughout the construction process.
Additionally, the Justice Ministry announced plans to relocate the police museum to the former Paphos Gate police station. This historic building will not only house the museum but will also feature cultural spaces for artists, developed in conjunction with the antiquities department. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to fostering cultural heritage and artistic expression within the community.
The decision to establish the prison in Ayios Sozomenos comes after the ministry abandoned an earlier proposal to build in Mathiatis. The shift was made due to cost and logistical considerations, as Ayios Sozomenos already has the necessary infrastructure, including access to roads, water, electricity, and sewage systems. The new facility, which is projected to cost €300 million, is designed to accommodate approximately 1,500 inmates, with construction slated to begin next year and completion anticipated within five years.
However, the choice of Ayios Sozomenos as the prison site has faced significant opposition from local authorities and environmental groups. The municipalities of South Nicosia-Idalion and Latsia-Yeri have voiced their concerns, calling for a reversal of the decision. They argue that the area is already heavily utilized for industrial and agricultural activities and is designated for livestock farming under a national plan aimed at revitalizing the sector.
Political parties such as Akel and the Ecologists have also raised alarms, pointing out that the proposed site falls within the Natura 2000 network, which comprises protected land areas in the European Union. This designation underscores the ecological significance of the region, which could be adversely affected by the construction of a large prison facility.
Ayios Sozomenos itself is a site of historical importance, having been abandoned during the intercommunal violence that affected Cyprus in the 1960s. The village is home to notable landmarks, including a Byzantine cave chapel, the unfinished Latin church of Saint Mamas, and remnants of mud brick structures left by its former Turkish Cypriot inhabitants. These features contribute to the village's rich cultural tapestry and highlight the need for careful consideration of any development in the area.
As plans for the prison move forward, the Justice Ministry's assurances regarding the protection of archaeological sites will be closely monitored by stakeholders, including local communities, environmental advocates, and cultural heritage organizations. The outcome of this project will not only impact the immediate vicinity but also reflect broader societal values regarding the preservation of history and the environment in the face of modern development.