Pafos Press 20 February 2025
Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium Limited announces the latest developments regarding the construction and operation of the first crematory in Cyprus, which is expected to open in Paphos, in the area of Agia Varvara, in the summer of 2026.
A landmark for Cyprus, the crematory combines respect, environmental sensitivity and economic practicality, offering an alternative option to those who do not wish to proceed with a traditional burial. It is worth noting that the law allowing cremation in Cyprus was passed in April 2016. The implementation of this project – which has already been approved by the Environmental Authority – is based on the expertise of the company, which is part of the Golden Leaves Ltd group, founded in 1984 and has extensive experience in the wider funeral sector.
This project sets new standards in funeral services in Cyprus, adopting modern technologies, providing integrated services and emphasizing transparency and public information. The facility will cover an area of approximately 17,575m², with a building of 1,012m², and construction costs are expected to amount to approximately 4 million euros.
The crematory will provide comprehensive cremation services, with the main cost estimated at around €900, excluding funeral home fees and additional services. It will be accessible to all funeral homes and will operate with transparency and professionalism, serving those who choose cremation.
A place of peace and respect
Tastefully appointed ceremonial halls will be available for all religious communities and mourners, ensuring a dignified venue for the final goodbye, with the utmost respect. The outdoor areas will offer a calm and peaceful environment for visitors with olive groves, with various commemoration options, including columbaria for the storage of urns.
Maureen Watt, Director of Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium Limited, said:
"We are proud to establish the first crematory in Cyprus, offering a modern, regulated and environmentally sustainable solution for those who prefer cremation over burial. Our aim is not to replace traditions, but to provide an additional option for those who wish to be cremated. We understand that this is a new and unknown concept for many, which may challenge their beliefs and perceptions. That is why we are committed to providing full information, transparency and security."
The building will have two floors (ground floor and basement), covering a total of 1,012 sq.m. On the ground floor will be the main reception, offices, kitchen, toilets, as well as two ceremonial halls with flexible capacity from 100 to 200 people. In addition, spaces will be available for memorial services. In the basement there will be areas for the preparation and cooling of the dead, a chapel for ashes, two cremation furnaces with exhaust gas cleaning system, as well as additional parking spaces, which will complement the 30 outdoor spaces.
How the crematory will work
The crematory will adopt a modern European incineration system, which has been tested for over a decade and is implemented across Europe and the UK. The system includes:
· Minimum emissions: The most efficient and environmentally friendly incineration technology in full compliance with European regulations, with low-emission systems and advanced filters – such as bag filters, chemical treatment with baking soda and activated carbon filters.
· Continuous monitoring: Sensors will monitor temperature, carbon monoxide levels, oxygen and air particles, ensuring emissions remain below legal limits.
· Eco-friendly options: Biodegradable urns and other sustainable options available.
In addition, the building will incorporate the use of solar technology, ensuring that ceremonial halls, offices, air conditioning and cooling will operate with minimal energy consumption. There will also be a rainwater collection system to irrigate memory gardens during the summer months.
Commitment to the local community
Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium Limited supports the local economy and Cypriot identity. For this reason, the construction of the project will be based on local materials and Cypriot craftsmen, maintaining the local character of the country.
For the design of the project, Golden Leaves selected the award-winning international crematorium design experts Benchmark Architects from the UK, in collaboration with the well-known Cypriot architectural firm Vefeades & Vefeades Architects in Nicosia. Their experience and dedication to designing spaces that offer serenity, tranquility, ensure that the crematory will offer a dignified and appropriate farewell to those who choose cremation.
Responding to a growing need
The crematory responds to important needs of Cypriot society that have arisen in recent years. By applying modern technologies, the project contributes to the reduction of the environmental footprint and supports the local economy by reducing dependence on imported services.
Until now, those who wished to proceed with cremation had to travel abroad, facing considerable costs and procedural difficulties. Moreover, given the limited burial site in Cyprus and the rising cost of traditional funerals, cremation is an economically and practically viable alternative. It is also an option for the growing number of people from other countries, who settle permanently on the island, and who will now be able to be cremated locally and, if they wish, repatriate their ashes.
To ensure that the public is fully informed about the cremation process, the crematory will organise public information events where citizens can learn more about the operation of the facility, its environmental standards and cremation as an alternative to the final goodbye.
This approach aims to promote transparency and enhance public trust by addressing any concerns arising from cultural or religious perceptions.
