The Sea and Culture Museum in Latsi, Cyprus, reconnects the local community with its maritime heritage. Located in a restored warehouse, this EU-funded project features exhibits on local fishers, sailors, and coastal life, utilising digital technologies like virtual and augmented reality to create immersive experiences. Open year-round, the museum attracts visitors and supports sustainable tourism.
Latsi, a picturesque fishing village on Cyprus’s northwest coast, thrives in summer but is quieter during the off-season. The Municipality of Polis Chrysochous and the Paphos Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) aimed to revitalise the village by establishing the museum, funded by the EU. According to FLAG manager Evgenios Savva, this funding was essential in turning their vision into an important national project.
The museum highlights maritime heritage through the stories of local fishers and sailors, featuring engaging exhibits that blend archaeology with cutting-edge technology. Each room offers unique, hands-on experiences, allowing visitors to explore ancient civilisations and the beauty of the Akamas Peninsula.
The museum not only addresses off-season tourism challenges but also promotes the local blue economy by creating jobs and opportunities for skill development. It has become a community hub, attracting students, families, and international tourists while serving as a model for sustainable development in other coastal communities. Ticket sales now provide a sustainable income, ensuring the museum’s long-term success.
“The Sea and Culture Museum is now a beacon of sustainable development, digital innovation, and community pride, proving that local determination and European cooperation can generate lasting prosperity,” notes Evgenios Savva.
