International dry-stone wall construction meeting held in Limassol

An international meeting focused on the traditional art of dry-stone wall construction began on November 2, 2026, at the Omodos Technical and Oenology School in the mountain region of Limassol, Cyprus. The event, which concludes on November 6, brings together experts, trainers, and volunteers from Cyprus, Greece, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Bulgaria, Spain, Austria, and South Korea to discuss the preservation and teaching of this historical technique.

The Environment and Animal Welfare Commissioner, Ilias Myrianthous, inaugurated the event, highlighting the significance of dry-stone structures in supporting agriculture on sloping terrain. These traditional stone walls are vital for soil erosion control, water management, and the maintenance of local biodiversity. The program includes practical workshops and academic presentations that explore standardization processes and successful international training models, such as the initiative for a dedicated school of stone craftsmanship in Tinos, Greece.

The primary objective of this gathering is to ensure the transmission of traditional knowledge to future generations. Organizers include the Commissioner's Office, the Department of Antiquities, the Ministry of Education's Unit for Environment and Sustainable Development, and the Petra stin Petra Foundation. Participants are expected to gain technical insights and collaborative strategies to sustain the practice within modern rural landscapes.