An information meeting was held regarding the restoration works of the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque and Madrasa, carried out in cooperation between the Cyprus Evkaf Administration, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye, and the General Directorate of Foundations.

At the meeting, held at the Bora Atun Conference Hall of Famagusta Municipality, members of the Restoration Scientific Committee, Prof. Dr. Ayşe Esin Kuleli, Prof. Dr. Bekir Eskici, Prof. Dr. Alper İlki, and Prof. Dr. Recep İyisan, delivered comprehensive presentations on the initial documentation of the monument, the works undertaken in 2016, and the restoration process that began in January.

Speaking at the meeting, Director General of the Cyprus Evkaf Administration Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tümer emphasized that the restoration works represent the responsibility of safeguarding a centuries-old legacy and passing this heritage on to future generations.

Highlighting that the waqf system established with the beginning of Ottoman administration in Cyprus in 1571 was founded upon a people-centred tradition of charity and benevolence, Tümer stated that the restoration of the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, one of the region’s most significant architectural monuments, is of great importance in preserving historical memory and building a bridge between the past and the future.

Tümer also noted that the support provided by Türkiye contributes to the protection of the shared waqf heritage, adding that these efforts are an important reflection of the strong bonds between the Turkish Cypriot people and Türkiye.

Suat Faruk Giray, Deputy Director General of Türkiye’s General Directorate of Foundations, stated that the works being carried out at the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque are not merely a repair process, but also an expression of respect for history, art, and science.

Giray emphasized that the restoration works will be carried out in accordance with scientific principles and international conservation criteria, with the preservation of the monument’s authenticity and architectural identity remaining the primary priority.

The restoration works, carried out with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye, are expected to be completed within approximately three to four years.

Having witnessed the history of Famagusta for centuries, the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque and Madrasa are being meticulously restored in order to preserve our shared waqf heritage and pass it on to future generations.