Four houses in the Cypriot capital Nicosia listed on historic registers adjacent to an under-construction cathedral were taken down by the Archbishopric in the old quarters without a permit, said Kathimerini newspaper.
Municipal officials, the paper noted, had granted permits only to build the cathedral and develop a surrounding area but the houses now demolished were slated for restoration.
In Cyprus, the demolition of listed houses is against the law but there was no indication whether the government would act against the powerful church although municipal not named officials said an investigation will ensue.
The Green party called the incident “a blow to culture” and a gross violation of the terms of the legislation governing listed buildings.
“Unfortunately, we have once again witnessed the arbitrary actions of the Archbishop,” the Greens said, calling for an explanation that didn’t initially come.
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