CYPRUS: Construction of Star Wars inspired observatory to begin soon

Planning permission to construct a futuristic observatory in the Troodos mountains is expected to be issued soon, according to CNA.

The Star Wars-inspired observatory will be built near the village of Agridia.

The location was selected for its excellent weather conditions that allow for optimal viewing while it is only a 45-minute drive from the capital Nicosia and Limassol.

Estimated cost of the project is €1.6 mln including equipment.

An observatory is seen as having a positive impact on the development of the wider region and will attract visitors and boost tourism.

The observatory is intended for children, amateur astronomers and tourists.

It will have two telescopes, a solar one for use during the day and a lunar one to watch the stars and moon at night. The idea is that different groups of people will be able to make use of the space.

The futuristic building is going to be in the shape of a spaceship, inspired by Sci-Fi films such as Star Wars.

Architectural plans have already attracted international interest with an article about the project published in Dezeen, the prestigious architectural magazine.

Designers of the project are Elena and Nicodemus Tsolakis of Kyriakos Tsolakis architects.