Politis

Repatriation of Cypriot Antiquity from France

Published January 2, 2026, 07:16
Repatriation of Cypriot Antiquity from France

A Cypriot antiquity, a dichromatic kylix from the Cypro-Geometric III period (900-750 BC), has been repatriated to Cyprus from France. The object was identified in an online auction by officials from the Department of Antiquities monitoring illegal trafficking and was withdrawn after communication with the auction house. The kylix features two handles and black-figure decoration with vertical lines and swastikas on the exterior, and bands on the interior. The Department of Antiquities expressed its gratitude to the Nabécor Enchères auction house, the donors, and the Embassy of Cyprus in Paris for their cooperation and coordination in the repatriation process. The successful recovery of the antiquity is a significant step in protecting Cyprus's cultural heritage and combating the illegal trafficking of archaeological objects. Cooperation between Cypriot authorities and international bodies is crucial for the return of these valuable treasures to their homeland.