The district of Pafos is gearing up for 2017, when over 300 artistic events mark its status as a European Capital of Culture—an honor conferred by the European Union. The theme is the Open Air Factory, which emphasizes the long tradition in Cyprus of enacting culture outdoors as well as a new openness to connecting spaces and people here. Highlights include “Terra Mediterranea,” an exhibition of artists from Cyprus, Israel, and Germany examining the Mediterranean as a connective tissue in European culture; “The Truth about Venus,” a new musical performed in an empty pool; and a multilingual performance of Euripides’s “Trojan Women” by actors from divided cities (Nicosia, Mostar, Jerusalem). Near Anassa you’ll find the Eco Art project, where eight artists create installations and performances inspired by the Akamas wilderness. Thanos Hotels and Resorts is an Official Gold Sponsor for Pafos 2017. Tickets are available through Guest Services. See here for programme details.