A critical examination of the impact of power relations on the management of walled Nicosia's architectural heritage

Abstract

PurposeThe contested urban fabric of walled Nicosia is closely connected with narratives of conflict that materialise in the historic built environment of the city. Following the 1974 permanent division of the island of Cyprus, management of its capital's urban heritage is realised through a dual approach between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot Municipalities. In many circumstances, this duality is manifested in the historic built environment of the city, which in turn affects public engagement and perception. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact on power relations following the political division of Nicosia, in order to unveil existing parameters affecting its heritage and heritage management. Methodology/approachFollowing a systematic review of relevant literature on Nicosia and the concept of power, this paper examines the manifestation of power relations on the tangible fabric of its walled city. To ensure the reliability of the study, the empirical findings of the researcher are supported by interviews with relevant stakeholders. In this vein, a focused analysis of stakeholders’ perceptions, roles and interactions in the heritage management process and the various issues associated with this imbalance of power are examined, demonstrating the significance of the concept in contested environments such as that of walled Nicosia. FindingsThe results expand on considerations beyond tangible division and raise concerns linked to funding difficulties, public participation, and administrative limitations deriving from the political segregation of the island. The relevance of stakeholder engagement on the planning and wider management of walled Nicosia's contested heritage is further highlighted through the interview findings. Originality/valueThis research contributes to the academic discussion about Nicosia's heritage by introducing new topics associated with the division of the city. These include issues derived from the ongoing power imbalance between - and within - the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot Municipalities, and the subsequent impact these have on heritage. In doing so, the creation and dissemination of new knowledge on the particularities of the walled city is achieved. These in turn seek to encourage a more informed heritage protection on either side of the divide respectively.