The Importance Of Protecting the Landscape Character & Beauty Of Cyprus ’What is the relationship between Sustainable Design & Development in protecting the landscape character & beauty for the future of Cyprus. ‘’
Maria Xenofontos BA (Hons ) Landscape Architecture 2014-2015 Word count = 5204 This dissertation is to be presented to The Department of Architecture and Landscape at Stockwell Street University of Greenwich as part of the BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture course.
‘Except where stated otherwise, this dissertation is based entirely on the author’s own work’.
Introduction Chapter 1: ΚΎΠΡΟΣ Background History/ 1974 Landscape character Genius Loci Akamas Peninsula
Chapter 2: WHY CYPRUS Tourist development, economic pressure Lack of education & landscape conservation policies Ecotourism Sustainable Development tool
Chapter 3: CASE STUDY Aphrodite Hills Intercontinental Five-Star Resort / Hotel Intro Exiting Site Design
Conclusion Appendix: Source of Images References / Bibliography Interviews
Table of Content.
This dissertation is dedicated to my parents , for giving me opportunities they never had.
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Introduction.
This dissertation is about pointing out and identifying the unique landscape character and beauty of the Mediterranean island Cyprus. With such a strong and unique genius loci and tourist development sector the country should reconsider its future and think of balancing both. The investigation leads to point out that the island needs to protect its astonishing natural enviroment and control the planning to stop its landscape and natural resources from degrading and eventually disappearing. A Case study which looks at the Intercontinental Hotel and Resort in Cyprus that has balanced out both the cultural heritage and landscape character through the design.
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1. ΚΎΠΡΟΣ
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Chapter 1: Background
Figure 1 : Sea Caves Paralimni
Background
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emote, beautiful, mysterious, and unique an island with a world of its own. A sector of this planet where life has evolved differently.
Part of a modern interconnected society , this island is also part of a community that is always changing for better or for worse.Kilometres of glittering coast lines, hundreds of hectares of broad fertile plains, set in a background of dramatic mountain ranges. This island is a mixture of all types of natural resources and astonishing features. For a visitor or a resident this could be paradise.
Figure 2 : Paphos Harbour at night
A background of the most important ancient history and modern history of Cyprus will be talked about in the next chapter and identifying the most important aspects either natural or mythological landscapes. Figure 3: Kyrenia Harbour
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Chapter 1: Background
So maybe Cyprus has been blessed by its geography, but
I would say cursed by its location. Cyprus could not separate its features from the fate of humanity as a whole. In so many ways this island is in the front line of global change what happens on the island matters to the entire world. Lying at the crossroads of three big continents (Europe, Asia, and Africa) the eastern Mediterranean island has always been a prize desired by surrounding lands. During the prehistoric world the islands rich copper deposits ensured the continuing worth of the land. Even the name Cyprus probably derives from the ancient Greek word copper – Kypros. Many rulers tried to conquer the island that occupied such a strategic position, and overall many types of natural resources.
Figure 4: Inbetween Three Continents
Through many centuries Cyprus has once been ruled by the Egyptians, Mycenaeans, Phoenicians, Assyrians, Persians, Ptolemies, Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Franks, Venetians, Turks and British. All empires left their cultural footprint on the island one way or another. Each time the people of Cyprus have been caught in the swell, forced to change their identity and pledge new allegiances.
Figure 5 : Historical map of Cyprus with past conquerors.
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Chapter 1: Background
Cyprus also has a great mythological aspect of its background. Greek myth calls Cyprus the ancient land of Love and Romance, its patron is Aphrodite. Aphrodite is the Greek goddess of love, beauty and pleasure. Legend has it that she was born on Petra Tou Romiou, on the islands south western coast Paphos Cyprus. Rising from the sea on a giant shell and created from the foam of the waves.
Figure 6 : Aphrodite the Goddess of Cyprus
Her miraculous birth is still marked by a feature which dominates the famous beach, Aphrodite’s Rock. The story goes that if anyone manages to swim around her rock three times, then the goddess will bestow her perpetual beauty upon them. ‘’It is said that in certain weather conditions, the waves rise, break and form a column of water that dissolves into a pillar of foam. With imagination, this looks for just a moment like an ephemeral, evanescent human shape’’ (Sacred Destinations, 2015). Figure 7 : Petra Tou Romiou , ancient site
Figure 8 : Aphrodites Rock , famous tourist destination
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Chapter 1: History 1974 Cyprus has become the clubbing capital of the Eastern Mediterranean. Once sleepy fishing villages like Paphos and Agia Napa now pulse with a completely different beat. Long summer nights are always likely to happen whether you go out at midnight to the clubbing streets of the city, or decide to glance at the never ending falling stars of the night. But the islands appeal to the beautiful people is nothing new. In the 1960’s, before mass market tourism, the sea side of the city of Famagusta was a playground to the rich and famous. The stars all holidayed here such as Bridget Bardot, Elizabeth Taylor, and Richard Burton.
Figure 10: 1960’s playground to rich and famous Figure 9: Nisi Beach Agia Napa , clubbing capital of Cyprus
Figure 11: Famagusta Before Invasion
Figure 12 : Famagusta Today, ghost town
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Chapter 1: History 1974
But the bloodshed is not all ancient history. In 1974 the battle lines were drawn again. This time the population of Greek and Turkish people were pitted against each other. Since 1974 Cyprus is divided into two, north from south, Greek from Turkish, and Muslim from Orthodox. This division has left a major scar not only on the landscape, but also in people’s hearts. This time was a very unfortunate time, especially for the Greek Cypriots living on the northern side of the island that had to flee to the south for safety leaving all of their belongings behind. Famagusta was caught in the middle of the conflict with its pristine beaches and hotels that once drew everyone to go there became a battle field . Today it lies in-between the UN buffer zone which was set up between the two sides to stop the war and conflict. Known as the Green line it is now a permanent division across the whole island. To the south is the Republic of Cyprus which is Greek Cypriot people. Since 2004 it is part of the European Union and is recognized internationally. To the North is the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, no country except Turkey recognized its sovereignty.
Figure 13: World finds out about the Turkish Invasion
Figure 14: Map of Cyprus showing buffer zone between the two nations
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Chapter 1: History 1974 Today the buffer zone its self attracts visitors. Spending time there will make you feel how frustrated and unfair things have turned out for the refugees. You will feel a sense of emotion and fear. Snakes declare the land today, the slither inside derelict houses, and the abandoned buildings of Varosha , Famagusta. Famagusta today has a scared landscape . A ghost town with decaying buildings, and crumbling villas where time and people’s lives stopped in summer 1974. Figure 15 : Today ‘No mans Land ‘
Figure 16 : A view of the Greek-Cypriot south of Varosha, in 2003.
Figure 17 : Famagusta Today, left abandoned , a ghost town
Barbed wire to stop Greek Cypriots entering what was once theirs.
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Chapter 1: History / Culture Cyprus being part of the Mediterranean, has a natural background of diverse climate and topography. Through time as mentioned in the beginning of this chapter many different empires have transformed the land creating a rich mosaic of cultural landscapes which characterizes this Mediterranean landscape into such a diverse and unique Character. Today human use of the landscape continues to shape the future of this prestigious Mediterranean island. Natural areas and Cultural areas will continue to evolve through time and history. Paphos a Unesco World Heritage Site, ranging from Bronze Age Dwellings, royal tombs dating from the Hellenic era, Medieval period, and Roman floor mosaics to Byzantine castles and churches.
FIgure 19: Roman mosaics archaeology park in Paphos
Figure 18: Medieval Castle , Paphos
Figure 20 : Bronze statue, “The horned god�Late Cypriot IIC (1320 - 1200 BC)Cyprus Museum, Nicosia
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Figure 21 : Paphos Haus des Theseus - Kolonnade
Chapter 1: Landscape Character
Landscape Character Over a long period of time the historical geology of Cyprus has evolved from the tectonic movements of the earth and arose from the sea. The landscape geology of a such a small island is varied and can be de-scribed as dramatic. ‘’Cyprus is one of the few places on earth where the geological processes have played such an im-portant role in the development of its natural environment’’ (ORV , 2014).
Figure 22 :Volcanic massif , Trodos mountains rises to nearly 2000 m above sea level
About 90 million years ago Cyprus was under the sea. Cyprus was made international geological show-case because of the unique and complicated events which accoutred here. ‘’Tectonic movements at the time resulted in the collision of the African with the Eurasian plate ultimately giving birth to Cyprus’’ (ORV , 2014). Trodos mountains and Pentadaxtilos are the two most famous mountain peeks on the island . Both mountain landscapes first rose above the surface of the sea about 20 million years ago. ‘’The tip of the Trodos mountain range is in face a slice of a 90 million year old ocean crust , an ophiolite which formed 8000 meters below sea level’’ (ORV , 2014).
Figure 23 :Pentadaxtilos High peek that also resembles five fingers
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Chapter 1: Landscape Character Landscape planning Survey Geologically Cyprus has both types of landscapes types. (Figure’s :24 & 25) The document where I retrieved this information from along with the lands use maps was the only one I could find and gain access publically. These survey’s where from the University Of Reading, and they mention that this was the first ever Landscape Assessment for Cyprus.
Figure 24 : High lands ‘’Mountain Forest. A heavily wooded, largely unsettled, highland landscape associated with steeply sloping, high (mostly above 500 m) mountains, found typically on resistant volcanic (e.g. Troodos massif) or metamorphic (e.g. Pentadactylos range) geology. Prominent rocky features (cliffs, ridges) appear in places’’
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Figure 25 :Low Lands ‘’Cultivated Low Hills. An undulating, sparsely settled and cultivated landscape of low hills (below 500 m), with patches of shrubby semi-natural vegetation’’ (Warnock, Griffiths and Vogiatzakis, 2008).
Chapter 1: Landscape Character
This map of Cyprus shows the various types of geological landscape characters, quite idiosyncratic for such a small island.
Cyprus is the third largest island in the world. It has an overall subtropical climate with mild winters. It lies between latitudes 34째 and 36째 N, and longitudes 32째 and 35째 E. It measures 240 km long from West to East, and 100 km wide from South to North.
LEGEND High Mountain Forest
Limestone Hills Vineyards
Mountain Forest
Limestone Hills Cultivated
Mountain Maquis
Low Hills Forest
Cultivated Mountains
Low Hills Maquis
Limestone Hills
Low Land Maquis
Low Hills Cultivated Figure 26 : Landscape Character Cyprus Source: Warnock, Griffiths and Vogiatzakis, 2008
Low Lands Cultivated Lowland Citrus Alluvial Flats
Coastal Dunes
Salt Lake
Urban
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Chapter 1: Genius Loci Of Akamas
Genius Loci Of Akamas Peninsula. Stretching across the western part of Cyprus lies Akamas Peninsula. The hillsides and headlands from the island’s last undeveloped frontier, a scenery of spectacular wilderness, sandy covers, crystal clear waters, and hillsides covered in thick areas of pine and juniperus. This remote region of the west features the islands most beautiful wild beaches. The shoreline is characterized by steep cliffs dropping vertically into the sea. In my opinion the Akamas Peninsula is the most unique natural area of the island. The landscape character and ‘spirit of the place I just extraordinary’. I had the privilege to interview a natural wildlife photographer, who passionately enjoys studying this place and this is how he described Akamas.
Genius Loci : The pervading ‘Spirit Of the Place’ Figure 27 : Akamas National Park
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Chapter 1: Genius Loci Of Akamas I asked him ‘‘as a photographer of the nature, how would you explain Cyprus’s landscape character?’’ He replied ,‘’As a student/resident/tourist when I visit The peninsula of Akamas it makes me feel that primitive fear of the uncontrolled nature that we all still have thanks to our animal instinct. Humans have lost contact with nature because or urbanization and technology. Going to a wilderness such as Akamas even if it is for a few hours will act as a setting for you to experience and express simple fundamental emotions. Many of those emotions are hidden deep in your mind and nature is a perfect (and ironically natural) place for those emotions take flight’’ (Sedeno, Rodrigo, 15 February 2)
Figure 29 :High lands , Low Lands , Coastal Land
Figure 30: Dramatic Geology into the Sea
Figure 31 :Akamas Landscape Sunset
Figure 32: 230m above sea level
Figure 28 : Akamas National Park
Figures 29-32 :All photos above are copyright from Rodrigo
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Chapter 1: Genius Loci Of Akamas Figure 33
Figure 33 -34 :All photos are copyright from Rodrigo Sedeno
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This is a private field survey which was done by Rodrigo Sedeno who is currently a student at the University of Wolverhampton , studying Wildlife Conservation and animal behaviour. Being a nature lover and landscape photographer he set out one day to explore the Peninsula and to identify any species crossing his way. Figure 33 , is a personal sketchbook figure which shows the areas of Akamas he planned to Survey .A1 Camera Trap , A2 Cape Tracks & Signs , A3 Wildflower Ident. Below are the areas (A1, A2, A3 ) spotted on the map.
Figure 34
Chapter 1: Genius Loci Of Akamas
‘’Throughout the island , each mountain range host a number of plants and animals that are found nowhere else on this planet‘’ (WWF , 2001).
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Figure 35 , A1 Camera Trap . During the late night a common Lesser White-Toothed Shrew (Crocidura suaveolens) is photographed. Figure 36
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Figure 36, A2 Cape Tracks and Signs , this was a scary but a unique discovery. He captured the deadliest snake in Cyprus , which is also an endangered species according to IUNC. Fgure 35-37 :All photos are copyright from Rodrigo Sedeno
Figure 37 , A3 Wildflower Ident discovery , this is a native flower to the Mediterranean region from Spain to Palistan . In the USA it is categorized as invasive . This wildflower is the Neopolitan Garlic , latin name Allium neapolitan
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Chapter 1: Genius Loci of Akamas ‘‘The gorges of Akamas, essential for the survival of a spectrum of wildlife, are of exceptional ecological importance. These cut deep into the chalk and the reef limestone areas, often forming high vertical cliffs and caves. Rare and sensitive vegetation communities have evolved here. On their inaccessible cliffs rare plants find protection from grazing while many species of birds and other animals take refuge and breed on them ‘‘(PF , 2015 ). The wildlife flora and fauna which can be found here is limitless . So many different types of species (over 600 species , including scores of orchid varieties) and fauna, the diverse geological features , the beautiful coastline and the legends and myths associated with this fascinating country make it a paradise for ramblers and nature lovers. The underdeveloped peninsulla means most of the places can only be reached by hiking. We should protect natural resources and natural areas such as The peninsula of Akamas simply because of its intrinsic value. Biological evolution and natural succession require a lot of time to manifest themselves.
Figure : A rare type of wild sheep that can most be found on the island today and can only be found in Cyprus is the endemic Cyprus moufflon ( Ovis orientalis ophion ) . During Rodrigos Field Survey it must of not been a surprise that he came across this creature. Figure 38 : photo copyright from Rodrigo Sed-
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2. Why Cyprus ?
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Chapter 2 : Why Cyprus ? The island of Cyprus has welcomed travellers for centuries because of its strategic location and quality of recourses and today it is a hotspot for tourist. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is a natural beauty coastal land, with strong heritage and activities for all ages and social status. . Not to mention the last capital which is divided, 345 days of sunshine, mild winters, and a combination of vibrant colourful Mediterranean traditional styles. The following chapter explains the detachment and unbalanced mentality Cyprus has for protecting the natural environment. Once the natural environment is destroyed it will never be retrieved to its original ‘natural ‘condition. By now I have mentioned many of the prestigious natural environments this country has, furthermore I will explain the issues currently damaging the future of these habitats. I will also introduce a concept/solution I believe should already be a priority in creating a stable future for Cyprus. ‘’Coastal areas are some of the most productive and biologically diverse on the planet. They’re also the most densely populates: according to the UN, 60 of the world’s population – more people than inhabited the entire planet in 1960 – live within 60km of the coast. ‘’( WWF 2015) and because of this The future of Cyprus cannot be determined unless more thought is taken into protecting the islands unique and special genius loci.
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Chapter 2 : Lack Of Conservation Policies & Education Unfortunately, Cyprus is far behind much of the world in general eco-awareness. Like the rest of the world Cyprus is also facing many environmental issues. The major issue, it faces is water resource problems, there is no natural reservoir catchments, since it is an island surrounded by the Mediterranean sea, the sea water de-purifies the largest aquifer on the island and there is an increase of salination in the north. From industrial wastes and sewage from mainly hotels there is also a major problem with water pollution. Those are not the only issues the island faces deforestation, air pollution from carbon emissions , habitat loss , flooding , over agriculture , and consequent species loss. The hardest one to come to terms with is probably the loss of natural wildlife due to urbanization. A lack of ecological interest is probably the main cause of this. According to Acciona ’There is no doubt that the local community has a confused idea about conservation targets and that there is a lack of basic knowledge on protection measure of the natural ecosystem’’. (TOP Biodiversity, 2010) It is important drastic measure are taken into educating local people and visitors about the importance of respecting the natural environment.
Lack of conservation policies in the country is a danger of everything joining up and nothing being left. What I mean by that is people thinking of now instead of the future. It is amazing how unaware people can be about simple things you should not do to the land, such as littering the beaches, which will choke sea turtles and dolphins. Of course here you can maybe blame the lack of education from the entry, or loss of interest in the subject. But I do not understand how people can not care about the landscape , after all its part of their nature .We are living a generation perhaps where mostly the younger o got used to see aeroplanes in the sky , and there has always road noise from traffic so it is very normal atmosphere in which comforts them. Nature though is unique and once it disappears will never be the same, it in danger and people no realise that. Undertaking international responsibilities, economic prosperity, social justice and cohesion, the protection of the natural environment. The priority targets to consider are: •
The wildlife needs to be conserved.
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Urban sprawls should be well thought through.
• Local people and visitors have to be educated about these issues and understand they are both a part of the protection of Cyprus.
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Chapter 2 : Tourist economic pressure The high economic pressure from tourism in Cyprus is leading to rapid over development. This pressure is leading to mass tourism infrastructure with little or no thought on the conservation of certain landscape areas especially coastal regions. Natural habitats such as Akamas Penninsula are always in danger from being destroyed by big tourism operators. Whether its new hotels, villas, or attractions for leisure there is always a new project which is either on the go or upcoming. The island has a population of 1.141 million and host about 2 million visitors a year, a clear indication that the main economic income comes from tourist. Cyprus actively thrives from tourism not only big hotel operators, but also the local people, so it is important this is taken into consideration for a fair share between humanity. Though today there is a miss balance between the two. Mass hotel industries are making cheap holiday packages which prevent tourist to go out of the hotel and explore local shops, or restaurants. Hotels of these kinds are damaging local people’s lives, and becuase they are generally not low-impact, sustainable developments their carbon footprint is destroying the beaches and natural remains of Cyprus. This is deranged especially today that our planet faces major issues such as global change.`he tourist infrastructure and massive influx of tourist into such a small island is having a huge impact on the environment.
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In addition, it occurs that tourism does not always benefit its local people. Often mass tourism will destroy the local culture . ‘’They add to the pollution, waste needs of the local population, putting local infrastructure and habitats under enormous pressure.’’ (Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ) 2013)
Chapter 2 : Ecotourism Sustainable Development Tool
Eco-tourism. I believe that eco-tourism is the solution to resolving miss balance between the natural beauty and the tourist sector in Cyprus. Eco tourism is nature based tourism. The visitor is aware of the environment and respects the local community, culture, and natural environment. More education need to be about the natural environment, and create awareness of respect and conservation. A tourist wants to go on holiday and not have to worry about anything other than having a good time. There is nothing wrong with that though today many tourist forget how harmful their carless actions can have on the natural environment is. This is a problem in Cyprus, because it is such an attractive tourist destination, and the natural habitats are not coping well enough for these events which are taking part. There is a lack of sustainability within the Hotel industries and general corporations in Cyprus. It is devastating that the rich marine habitats and beautiful forest habitats, are being driven towards the resolution of extinction.
Over hunting, logging, agriculture, and fishing are all major issues this island has to change to make a difference. If Ecotourism became the islands priority then Cyprus would have a spiritual conservation act. There are so many activities to do and Cyprus offers so much whether you’re a resident or visitor. There are opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, water sports, kayaking and yachting. Or you may be the type of tourist which enjoys archaeology history, religion, or bird watching Visitors should become responsible travellers to the island and respect these opportunities it has to offer. The opinions and perspectives of the local community to help the decision making process, thus strengthening the local peoples’ participation. This can be seen as an opportunity for new policies based on sustainable and participatory management. The enhancement of the local community selforganization is an important goal in order to be prepared for a co-participating management. This collaboration requires major institutional support, financial funding and political will.
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Chapter 2 : Green Cyprus Eco-tourism is a simple concept. But very affective. The outcomes are truly all positive and there is not anything better than making a change for the better especially today that the country is suffering deeply with the effects of the economic crisis. ‘’Citizens and generally the whole local community needs to be familiar with the guidelines of the sustainable development, establishing also a process of knowledge exchange between stakeholders’’ (TOP Biodiversity, 2010) Since this is a crucial time for the stability of Cyprus the people can fight back against the crisis the country is suffering and benefit as a community through this sustainable development tool. ‘’A knock – on effect can be reduced support by local people for protecting their environment’’. (WWF , 2015)
Figure 40: Take Only Memories leave only footprints
Eco-tourism, Adventure-tourism, Responsible- tourism “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.” (TIES , 2015) The Diagram above shows Fgure 39: Ecotourism Diagram
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the balance / benefits /stability on the affect of Ecotourism.`
3.Aphrodite Hills Case Study
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Chapter 3 : Aphrodite Hills Case Study Intro
This chapter is a case study which investigates the Aphrodite Hills Resort in Paphos Cyprus. The investigation is about a 650 million euro grand project which in my opinion has significantly taken into full account the importance of the natural beauty and cultural heritage. A good example of what a hotel infrastructure should resemble for positive benefits physically, educationally, and socially. The Master plan was designed by Landscape Architects who have thought the process through about protecting Cyprus’s natural environment. Through this case study I will explain the main design process of the Hotel / Resort from the first thoughts, to the actual design methods that were used to achieve such a successful design. The main aim was to create a tourist resort in a rich landscape of classical heritage.
Figure 41 : Aphrodite hills , Picturesque into the landscape
Through this chapter I will mention why I believe this, and also back up my investigation by providing information through the interview I had with my 3rd year teacher and the Landscape Architect for the Master plan Jamie Liversadge.
Figure 42: Aerial view of the Intercontinental Resort
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Chapter 3 : Aphrodite Hills Case Study Intro The site is in a particular special part of Cyprus, located on the hills which overlook the famous mythiological site of Aphrodite’s Rock. A classic Mediterranean landscape with a ruggerd ravie bordered by lush green slopes , with thouands of olive trees . Close to Aphrodite Hills is the charming harbour town of Paphos with a great historical and cultural background , also a UNESCO site (World Cultural Herritage destination.) ‘’The Aphrodite hills resort is a large 256ha integrated golf resort with a fivestar hotel, 18 hole championship golf course and villa housing on the West Coast of Cyprus near Paphos ’’(LAI , 2014 , p86). The main aim was to create a tourist resort in a rich landscape and classical heritage.
Figure 43: Spectacular Views , Villa Housing
Aphrodite endowed Cyprus with the names ‘’Island of Love’’ and ‘’Island of Beauty’’….how fitting aphrodite hills should overlook her birthplace. Figure 44: Aphrodite Hills five-star hotel
Figure 45: Panorama view over 18 hole championship golf-
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Chapter 3 : Aphrodite Hills Existing Site A very important part of the existing site was the ravine which separates the project site in half.’’ It was important from the start of the design to keep the ravine as pure and part of the project as possible’’ said Jamie. He continued to say that ‘’there is nothing that happens on the ravine besides one signature golf hole , which you have to be very good at to reach ‘’ Each part of the project tries to pick up on the context of the Cypriot Landscape on way or another. ‘‘Two plates which, when the existing site survey happened, each plateau had almost each 1600 mature olive trees’’ (Liversadge , Jamie , 9 March 2015). The natural landscape of the ravine provdes a strong design context for the resort development. The ravine played an important part of the existing site ,it separates the project site in half and it is conserved as a natural green spine on the site.’’ It was important from the start of the design to keep the ravine as pure and part of the project as possible’’ said Jamie. He continued to say that ‘’there is nothing that happens on the ravine besides one signature golf hole , which you have to be very good at to reach ‘’ .Each part of the project tries to pick up on the context of the Cypriot Landscape on way or another. The landscape is managed by the resort in conjunction with planning authorities and forestry department requirements. There is a conserved ravine which splits the site into too, this was a meant be kept protected, undeveloped, and in general a natural green spine through the site.
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Figure 46: The Green Spine , the Ravine
When Jamie first visited the site back in 1999 this was his response to the genius loci of the place. ‘’When I first visited the site, it was idyllic, the space had big herds of the goat, as I walked across the plates, there was this astonishing view to Paphos, all landscape virtually in line with the runway and airport with the sun setting over , it was unbelievable. ‘’ (Liversadge , Jamie , 9 March 2015 ).
Chapter 3 : Aphrodite Hills Case Design Master Plan: ‘’The design of the master plan, takes advantage of the natural sea breezes, and consideration is given to the solar aspect. Site layout respects the natural landscape and existing ecosystems, the circulation was designed to lessen the impact of human activity’’ (WAT&G., cfa , 2002). Context: There are footpaths allowing public access to the site and the surrounding forest. Construction in the ravine area is the traditional Cypriot vernacular, with the main features like the bridge being faced with local stone. In developing the resort road system, the intention was to reduce dependence on private car use and encourage walking, cycling and communal methods of transport. Every single piece out the design was about context. From the early stages the project was about heritage. Olive trees, sunsets, beaches.’’ Existing trees, vegetation or other landscape features outside the plot boundary lines were not disturbed or interrupted because together they served as the visual backdrop to the overall development character.
Figure 47 :Master plan of the resort development by : SASAKI Landscape Architects
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Chapter 3 : Aphrodite Hills Case Study Theme and Character The development area buffer zone of the revenue was also ceded to the public and has become a public green area. Public pedestrian ways allow free hiking access throughout the resort and the surrounding forest. Planting and land morphology has been transformed but remains harmonious with the natural native vegetation. The existing site features (mentioned above) were very important to the overall aim of the design project. Landscape features such as stone walls, screen slopes, rock outcrops, and tree and specimen shrub planting where to be strongly preserve and kept anywhere possible. ‘’ Where remove are necessary then the stockpiling, transplanting and reuse of materials is recommended ‘’ (WAT&G., cfa , 2002).
Figure 48: Year round interest , only native planting
‘’The general character of the design of Aphrodite Hills was inspired by modern traditional Cypriot village. The urban design, architecture and landscape designs are all based principles derived from local motif materials, yet adapted to accommodate the requirements of contemporary hotel, housing, and retail use ‘’ (WAT&G., cfa, 2002). Figure49: it was crucial to keep as many existing site features , such as these mature olive trees
After the Master plan was laid out the next stages of the detailed design was challenging. The design-ers felt they had not explored styles enough , although the theme was going to be inspired by Cypriot villiges the villages on the top mountains where completely different from the villages on the coastal areas .Also the plains had completely different characters which both needed to be explored more. In the end both styles where harmonized into a design. In a planning way it was all about local history , and how the climate and plants grow together.
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Figure 50: Existing dry stone walls are part of the agricultural heritage of the site
Chapter 3: Aphrodite Hills Case Study Design Aphrodite hills was to be very sustainable and environmentally friendly . So the challenge for Aphrodite Hills was to minimize the adverse environmental effects, in particular on archaeological sites and forest. The aim was to a create a sustainable tourist resort in a rich landscape and classical heritage which remains protected . So the challenge for Aphrodite Hills was to minimize the adverse environmental effects, in particular on archaeological sites and the natural forest. The aim was to create a sustainable tourist resort in a rich landscape and classical heritage which remains protected and respected. Sustainability: The sustainable resort had been designed so that the local climate , ecology , topography , and archiological inheritance features were protected. There were many archeological features on the site which had to be , and were protected. The Mediterranean climate can be excessively hot in the summer so shade was very important. Water is a main enviromental issue in Cyprus , the country tends to suffer frequent summer droughts . So green engineering techniques such as xeriscaping, and active water features which are self-contained recycling systems; pumps, filter and recalculate the water. Run off water and grey water is recycled on site where ever practical. On the sustainable rersort there is a sewage treatment plant which is used for landscape irrigation. Energy saving lighting was designed to minimize night time –ambient light pollution and avoid any unnecessary applications. This is great not only because of saving energy but because of gaining the appreciation of the night sky.
Equitment such s solar panels , water tanks , and A/C units had to be handled in a way which was sensitive and sympathatic to the character and atmosphere of the resort. ‘’Through careful consideration of site and materials , the visable components of site and municipal infastructure reinforce the vllage experience and add to the informal rural setting ‘’ ‘’ (WAT&G., cfa , 2002). For example water tanks in Cyprus are usually exposed on the roof and are visible this is because the majority of the roofs are flat. In the Aphrodite Hills Willa Design Guidelines it is clearly stated that ‘’The use of exposes external , roof-mounted water tanks shall not be permitted ‘’. It continues to state that ‘’If their use is necessary , tanks must completely shielded from view’’ (AHVDG ) . Materials & Colour Pallete A overall limited colour palete was used for the building elements of external features. The colour plete was meant to be traditional materials and colours and meant to unify the vllage character of Aphrodite hills . ‘’The colour scheme for the resort is designed to create a harmanious intergration of the built invroment with the natural landscape ‘’ (AHVDG , ) ‘’This development is an illustration of landscape architects grappling with the potentially harmful environmental aspects of tourism and maximizing appreciation of the landscape’s natural beauty.’’ (LAI , 2014) Aphrodite hills aesthetic experience of nature and tradition really does exsit , As design revlved , the spirit of the place was conserved and a clear sensitivethough by landscape architets makes this place a real success . A high respect of the landscape was achievd through e design and grasping the uniqquness of the natural envoment. The final design was highly achieved by the insites to generate a interesting project by intorpertation of old ones.
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CONCLUSION Cyprus is a rapidly developing country, I believe that if landscape architects get fully involved in the planning the coastal beaches, community patches, and city centres Cyprus can become a great island and the landscape could last for years and years to come. Although designing a landscape makes the place change, and feel positive and alive again there’s nothing like the aesthetic and spiritual quality of a natural landscape. So it is important that while those natural places on this planet earth still exist, that we are passionate and respectful towards them. (Santayana ,1896-1961 p25. ) says that there is something so essential and a big pleasure of the wind on our cheeks the sun on our faces the sound of water , all these thing derive from nature and I can not imagine a world without them. These sensory aesthetics make people feel healthier , alive , and complete. So nature is a major quality about life that should also be protected for future generations. What trigged my interest in the Genius Loci of Cyprus was those formative years when I grew up in an sub-urban city , when I moved to Cyprus there was a major change in my life . As a citizen of Cyprus I personally feel a duty as a world citizen to protect such a fragile island and speak about the ecological importance of the island. Cyprus is an island with at least 4-5 thousand year old history and because of geological reasons the soil, fauna and flora are unique to the Mediterranean region. I have a clear understanding now that the things I really love, in terms of nature are the things that cannot really be recreated.
Figure 51
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Bibliography : Eyewitness Travel (2006). Cyprus. United States: Douglas Armine. p.11 , 55-56 , 86 , 103 , 125 Ian H. Thompson (2000). Ecology, Community And Delight. London: E & FN Spon. P. 25-27. Robert Holden & Jamie Liversadge (2014). Landscape Architecture an Introduction. London: Laurence King Publishing Ltd. p.86. Dolores Sanchez Bengoa, Dave Powell (2010). TOP Biodiversity Cyprus 2010 Conference Proceedings. EU: Larnaca Inter College. P. 324.
Electronic Sources:
NA. (NA). Kritou Terra. Available: http://www.esc.com.cy/04kritou/kritou.htm. Last accessed 28/12/14. NA. (2014). Make Hotels Greener. Available: http://csti-cyprus.org/?page_id=67 . Last accessed 15/12/14. Paphos Finder. (NA). The Garden Of Paphos Cyprus. Available: http://www. paphosfinder.com/cyprus-info/akamas.htm#.VQpvIvmzKG4. Last accessed 19/03/15. Ocean Rent Villas. (2014). Cyprus Landscape. Available: https://rentprivatevillas. com/about/cyprus/17/cyprus-landscape-beach-mountain.html . Last accessed 03/03/15. Sacred Destinations. (2015). Aphrodites Rock , Cyprus. Available: http://www. sacred-destinations.com/cyprus/aphrodites-rock-petra-tou-romiou. Last accessed 10/03/15. The international Eco tourism Society. (2014). What is Ecotourism.Available: https://www.ecotourism.org/what-is-ecotourism. Last accessed 03/03/15.
Coastal wiki. (2013). Impact of Tourism in Coastal Areas. Available: http:// www.coastalwiki.org/wiki/Impact_of_tourism_in_coastal_areas:_Need_of_ sustainable_tourism_strategy%23Socio-cultural_impacts. Last accessed 05/02/15.
University Of Reading . (2014). The Experience of Cyprus Landscape Assesment. Available: https://www.coe.int/t/dg4/cultureheritage/heritage/landscape/ reunionateliers/cetinje/speech/Cyprus-Enotiades.pdf. Last accessed 03/03/15.
DAN BILEFSKY. (2012). On Cyprus Beach, Stubborn Relic of Conflict.Available: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/03/world/europe/cyprus-resort-varosharemains-sealed-off-to-visitors.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0. Last accessed 05/03/15.
Untamed Path. (2015). Benefits of Ecotourism. Available: http://untamedpath. com/eco-tours/benefits-of-ecotourism.shtml. Last accessed 27/02/15.
NA. (2014). Eco-tourism and Landscape Architecture. Available: http://www. asla.org/sustainablelandscapes/index.html%20news/. Last accessed 27/12/14. NA. (2014). Is Sustainable Tourism Achievable. Available: http://www. sustainabletourism.net/ . Last accessed 28/12/14.
WWF. (2001). Cyprus Mediterranean Forest. Available: http://web.archive.org/ web/20100308074454/http://www.nationalgeographic.com/wildworld/profiles/ terrestrial/pa/pa1206.html. Last accessed 05/03/15. WWF. (2015). Marine problems. Available: http://wwf.panda.org/about_our_ earth/blue_planet/problems/tourism/. Last accessed 05/02/15
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Figure links: Figure1:http://www.travelskyline.net/thumbs/sea_caves__paralimni_famagusta_ cyprus-t2.jpg Figure2:https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/18/ bc/23/18bc23adb773265ae6a42a3f485b682b.jpg
Figure 18 : http://www.cyprusisland.net/images/attractions/castle-of-paphos.jpg Figure19:http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vPE2r2zDcj8/TrxTb5qqQ9I/AAAAAAAAALs/ qXZb22h7WHo/s1600/4.+Cyprus%252C+mosaic+at+Katos+Paphos.JPG Figure20 : http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/98/Geh%C3%B6rnter_ Gott,_Enkomi.jpg/387px-Geh%C3%B6rnter_Gott,_Enkomi.jpg
Figure 3: https://yearinistanbul.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/img_1668.jpg
Figure 21 : http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b4/Paphos_Haus_des_ Theseus_-_Kolonnade_1a.jpg
Figure 4: In-between 3 Continents
Figure 22 : http://cyprusforlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/troodos.jpg
. Drawn by author
Figure 5: The Nicosia Municipality Library.
Figure23: http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/7026187.jpg
Figure6:https://defeatingthedragons.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/aphrodite1. jpg?w=300&h=262
Figure24: Landscape Character Assesment Document (Warnock, Griffiths and Vogiatzakis, 2008).
Figure7: http://www.puretravel.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Iconic-rock-ofAphrodite-at-her-birthplace-in-Paphos-Cyprus.jpg
Figure 25 : Landscape Character Assesment Document (Warnock, Griffiths and Vogiatzakis, 2008).
Figure8:http://d393b7qttdumw7.cloudfront.net/images/photograph/ enlargement/591/019ac96aa3c2cb73ebca97e37dd22d53.jpg
Figure26: Landscape Character Diagram (Warnock, Griffiths and Vogiatzakis, 2008).
Figure9:https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSQMROW0gQlEHubBoKYh5chjNJETT_N427yYaRnmLM3D0COwWv
Figure27: http://www.conservation.org.cy/akamas/Akamas-Peninsula-Aphrodite.jpg Figure28: http://www.paxgaea.com/images/Cape_Arnaoutis_westernmost.jpg Figure29-38: Photos by Rodrigo Sedeno
Figure10:http://i.usatoday.net/life/_photos/2012/04/19/TV-tonight-Community-1960sBeach-Party-891B1G0A-x-large.jpg
Figure 39: https://inezko.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/sustainability-diagram.png
Figure11:http://www.urbanghostsmedia.com/home/twamoran/urbanghostsmedia. com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/varosha-then.jpg
Figure 40 : http://www.aimlessadventuring.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Footprints. jpg
Figure 12: http://greece.greekreporter.com/files/varosha-beach.jpg
Figure 41-45, 47 : Aphrodites Hills Resort/ Fcbk.com
Figure 13: https://guroltank.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/sun-barbarians.jpg?w=700 Figure 14: http://www.archiprix.org/2015/index.php?project=2502 Figure 15: http://www.cyprusfortyearslater.com/photographs/ Figure 16: Photo by :Andreas Manolis/Reuters Figure 17 : http://johnelkington.com/wp-content/uploads/2005/03/Ghost-town.jpg
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Figure 46 : scanned photo from first ever Aphrodite Hills Brochure Figure 48 : www.holidaycheck.com Figure 51 : Photoshopes image by authour
Interview with Rodrigo Sedeno.
Interview
ME: As a photographer of the nature, how would you explain Cyprus’s landscape character You spent many days in Akamas peninsula and I’m sure you really appreciate the landscape character beauty You have resided many years in the USA which is a very developed and very urbanized country how do you see such a historical /rich soils / beautiful island makes your life better / worse? As a student/resident/tourist when I visit The peninsula of Akamas it makes me feel that primitive fear of the uncontrolled nature that we all still have thanks to our animal instinct. Humans have lost contact with nature because or urbanization and technology. Going to a wilderness such as Akamas even if it is for a few hours will act as a setting for you to experience and express simple fundamental emotions. Many of those emotions are hidden deep in your mind and nature is a perfect (and ironically natural) place for those emotions take flight. Therefore, one of the biggest mistakes humans can do is to spoil and destroy examples of life such as an ecosystem. Perhaps the number one reason to why we should protect it is so that one day your future family tree can inherit a place like that for their wellbeing and perhaps influence one of two of them to become ecologist and naturalist so that they can also take measures and preserve these natural museums for future generations to come. Living in the USA for 17 years gave me the opportunity to meet people from different cultures and background and also to see and experience different environments not found in the peninsula of Akamas such as the canyons of the SW USA. The wetlands of southern Florida and the deciduous forest of the NE USA area. However the biggest enemy in Cyprus is their citizens. The majority are uneducated about science and will cause mistakes such as over-hunting, illegal digging, over-exploitation of soil, destruction of cultural monuments in order to build modern structures, political and national pride thus dividing Cypriots and promoting violence. I believe education about science will change this within a few generations and the island of Cyprus will have a chance to reach its full potential in all aspects. Visiting Cyprus will cause a mixture of emotions, romance mixed with fear and hope mixed with frustration. Akamas should declare independence from Cyprus and become an independent state “the Republic of Akamas” I said that in a Facebook post and this Cypriot guy got so mad one time hahaha And he made me take it down from the page... It was a “Cyprus in Pictures” page and I said that as the title for one of my pictures hahaha...
Rodrigo Sedeno is nature explorer, passionate about science, astronomy, and ecology, on his own time he photographs landscapes, travels, and today he is a student at the University Of Wolverhampton Studying Wildlife Animal Behaviour and Conservation.
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