The First of its Kind in Cyprus!
The Water Museum was established by the Water Board of Lemesos (WBL) with the aim of raising public awareness about water conservation. It was inaugurated on 19 March 2008. Former Director Argis Markaris launched the initiative, which was later carried forward with the support of the WBL Manager, Socrates Metaxas, who aspired to transform the museum into a "Centre for the Development of Water Awareness."
The Water Museum is housed in the old pumping station, known as the "Neromichani" (Water Engine), located next to the former offices of the Water Board of Lemesos, at 66 Franklin Roosevelt Avenue, Limassol. The historic Water Engine building was restored, and a modern facility was constructed adjacent to it, creating the first of its kind in Cyprus: the "Water Museum and Centre for the Development of Water Awareness."
The Department of Town Planning and Housing included the Water Engine in the List of Preserved Buildings. Built in 1930, the pumping station was used to extract large quantities of water from the aquifer of the Garyllis River delta in the Tsiflikoudia area.
The water was then transported through pipelines to the Water Tower, ensuring Limassol's water supply.
This water transportation system was pioneering for Cyprus and the wider region alike.
Exhibits
The Water Museum features permanent exhibits related to water.
The Department of Antiquities of Cyprus has provided significant archaeological artefacts, while visitors have the opportunity to view a collection of rare objects and instruments once used for pumping, measuring, purifying, and other water-related activities.
Through various thematic sections, supported by rich photographic material, and a short film displayed on the museum's screens, the exhibition highlights the importance of water for the entire planet, Cyprus, and Limassol.
Water Level Recorder
Initially installed at Limassol Municipality (1930-1951) and later at the Water Board of Lemesos offices (WBL), this device enabled 24-hour monitoring of the water level in the Water Tower. 1930s – British origin.
Portable Chlorinator with Instruction Plate
1950s – British origin.
Beyond its exhibits and photographic material, the Water Museum offers educational programmes for students of all levels, from kindergarten to university. An especially designed outdoor educational playground allows children to learn through play about the importance of water. The collaboration with the Environmental Education Sector of Akrotiri, under the Cyprus Pedagogical Institute, has significantly contributed to the museum’s success and recognition.
Each year, thousands of students, as well as visitors and groups from various countries, explore the Water Museum, enriching their knowledge and understanding of water’s vital role.
Since 2011, the Water Museum has been the National Organiser of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize, a global competition where students from across Cyprus participate, proposing research projects focused on water management and conservation. Every year, the Water Museum ensures the participation of the best students, offering them a unique experience in Stockholm. The museum also serves as an educational environmental centre for eco-schools and other educational institutions, aiming to foster and develop water awareness.
With continuous evolution and adaptation to new technologies, the Water Museum remains a key institution for raising awareness and educating the public on water protection and responsible use. Established to promote water awareness among the public for better management and conservation of this precious resource, it is the first museum of its kind in Cyprus.
The museum exhibits rare objects and instruments historically used for pumping, measuring, purifying, and other water-related processes. Representatives of the Water Board of Lemesos (WBL) have established connections with similar museums abroad, reinforcing the Water Museum’s role in fostering social, cultural, and economic development in Limassol and Cyprus.
15 Years of the Water Museum – A Journey Through Time
Over the past 15 years, the Water Museum has organised hundreds of successful events and attracted thousands of visitors of all ages, including students and the general public. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the history of water, from its origins on our planet to the present day. The insights into Cyprus’ and Limassol’s water history are particularly fascinating, from Ancient Amathus to the underground tunnels and the city’s iconic Water Tower.
The museum’s exhibits, such as the remarkable Neromichani (Water Engine) and the Water Level Recorder, captivate young and older visitors alike, while interactive games and films provide an engaging and educational experience. Young visitors leave excited, taking home souvenirs that remind them of the importance of water conservation. Meanwhile, adult visitors from Cyprus and abroad express their admiration for the museum, sharing their thoughts in the Guest Book.
The contribution of the Water Museum is invaluable, extending to various educational and cultural initiatives.
Address:
P.O. Box 50225, 3602 Limassol, Cyprus
66 Franklin Roosevelt Avenue, 3012 Limassol (access via Yiannakis Potamitis Street, formerly Morphou Street).
Museum Phone: +357 25 271 257
Museum Fax: +357 25 271 900
Group Ticket Price: €10