The Centre of Visual Arts and Research (CVAR) opened in the heart of the walled city of Nicosia in 2014. CVAR is home to the Costas and Rita Severis’ collections of paintings, antique costumes and objects related to Cyprus and its history. The museum exhibits more than 1000 paintings on its four floors, produced by artists who visited the island between the 18th and the 20th centuries. Through the exhibits, visitors can discover cultural, religious, political and socio-anthropological aspects of life in Cyprus.

Apart from the paintings and works of art, there is a rich collection of memorabilia, traditional costumes and photographs that bring to life undocumented aspects of the island’s cultural heritage and daily scenes as experienced by travellers during their visits. The evolution of fashion on the island is also revealed through samples of traditional clothes of all Cypriot communities.