Restoration work on the historic watermill of Nikokleia, a significant monument with roots dating back to 1768, has begun after 15 years of concerted effort, municipal authorities announced on Thursday.

According to Nikokleia community leader Vasiliki Kanari, the project is set to be completed by August.

Kanari was speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) following a meeting at the Nikokleia Community Council, during which the restoration of the watermill was discussed. The meeting was attended by the contractor awarded the project and officials from the Department of Antiquities, as the watermill is a historic monument.

The €220,000 project, funded by the District Administration, was long delayed due to its high cost as the community authority had been awaiting funding for some time.

The watermill had suffered severe structural issues, including damage caused by inadequate drainage of rainwater. Additionally, nearby irrigation pipes near one side of the arch’s base appear to have exacerbated the problem.

Referring to the watermill’s history, Kanari told CNA that the Nikokleia watermill, also known as the Chapotamos watermill, was built around 1768 by the monks of the Chapotamos Monastery.

It is situated on plots of land next to the church of Ayios Demetrios. According to residents, these plots were later purchased by the Cooperative Society, and today, the watermill is jointly owned by private individuals and the church of Ayios Demetrios.

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