MONTH IN REVIEW: March 2026
A roundup of this past month’s art and design news about the makers and creators from Greece and Cyprus
By: Sophia
Ancient Mosaic Unearthed Below Athens Roadway
After breaking ground on roadway renovations Evripidou Street in central Athens, construction teams quickly realized they had unearned an ancient Greek mosaic. Now shrouded in protective coverings and sanctioned off from traffic, authorities plan to transfer it to a secure location to begin examination and preservation processes. Archaeologists hope to determine the approximate date of the mosaic and if it was created for a private residence or public space. A city like Athens, which has been populated for many centuries holds a rich and nuanced past. This unexpected discovery is a reminder of how much history remains to be uncovered.
Greek Director Dimitris Papaioannou Choreographed Rosalia’s New World Tour
On 16 March, in Lyon France, Rosalía’s much anticipated Lux world tour commenced. Her 2025 album was her most ambitious project yet— it blends classical, folk and modern techno sounds with a swath of different languages and religious imagery. Greek director, Dimitris Papaioannou brought these elements to life through choreography that stuns with operatic and balletic staging. The performance references classics such as Italian libretto, Tosca, as well as the Venus de Milo sculpture, inspired by Rosalía’s song ‘La Perla’. Known for his hybrid performance creations, Papaioannou blends a diverse series of forms and styles, executing innovative visions across world stages. Scheduled for 42 nights through 17 different countries, Lux received the grand choreographic treatment it deserves.
Limassol Presented the Third Annual International Theatre Festival
‘She is Here’ was this year’s theme of the Cyprus Theatre Festival housed in the cultural hub of Limassol. The third annual presentation of this program featured Russian poet Vera Polozkova, who performed her new album Red Thread, a collaboration with composer Alexander Manotskov. The performances were set in The Pattihio Theatre, a historic mid-century cinema that was converted into a 719-seat theatrical space. The festival culminated in a performance by acclaimed French actress, Fanny Ardant. Under the direction of Hervé Loichemol, the spoken opera staged Christa Wolf’s feminist novel of the iconic prophetess Cassandra from ancient Greek myth. Parallel programming accented the live events with workshops and panels with the featured artists.
New Boutique Hotel – The Fiction – Opened its Doors in Athens
In the business hub of Maroussi, Athens, The Fiction, opened its doors to visitors. Located near some of the city’s largest shopping centers, this new hotel offers a variety of leisure and business activities. The interior is designed with working people in mind, featuring sleek spaces fit for both large corporate events and private meetings. By nightfall, The Fiction transforms into a more relaxed space with frequent guest DJ sets. Their Lalane restaurant offers a blend of French and Mediterranean cuisine centering fresh local ingredients. Other amenities include the Fiction Spa and curated Library at the entrance of the building. The modern qualities of this new hotel were brought to life by lifestyle company, SWOT hospitality, giving guests a luxurious place to land during their stay.
Opening Date Announced for New Museum in Cyprus
The House Audit Committee visited the construction site of the new Archaeological Museum of Cyprus. After meeting with the team and assessing the progress, the Committee announced that the museum will open its doors in the latter half of 2029. The historic Archaeological Museum will not be demolished or covered by the new build, but rather preserved to house other exhibits. The plan includes 30,000 square-meters of space which will house permanent and temporary collections. Alongside exhibition areas are educational program spaces, conservation workrooms, a restaurant, and an amphitheater. The overall concept divides the plan into three buildings connected by bridges and framed by public park space and gardens.
Cyprus Institute Research Highlighted in French Titian Exhibition
At the Museé Condé near Paris, a new exhibit titled “Titian, Ecce Homo: From Cyprus to Chantilly - Science in the Service of Art” opened. From 7 March - 14 June, 2026 visitors can view the new analysis presented by the Cyprus Institute in collaboration with France’s Centre for Research. This study focused on two pieces by Italian painter Titian (Tizian Vecellio), which each depict moments leading up to Christ's crucifixion. Advanced imaging technology allowed researchers to map microscopic details beyond what the naked human eye can see. Beneath the surface paint of one piece, lay the remnants of another portrait. The Cyprus Institute's breakthrough findings point to a previously unknown part of Titian’s methodologies, recycling canvas in his studio.
