Cyprus’s first crematorium, serving all religious communities, is expected to be operational by summer 2026 in Agia Varvara, Paphos—nearly a decade after the legalization of cremation in the country. The project, led by Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium Limited, marks a major milestone in the modernization of Cyprus’s funeral services.

According to the company, the crematorium will combine respect, environmental responsibility, and affordability, offering an alternative for those who prefer cremation over traditional burials.

The law permitting cremation in Cyprus was passed in April 2016, but until now, those choosing this option have had to travel abroad, incurring significant costs and logistical challenges.

The Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium, approved by the Environmental Authority, will be built on 17,575m² of land with a 1,012m² facility, at an estimated construction cost of €4 million. The cremation service will be available to all funeral homes, with a starting cost of approximately €900, excluding additional funeral home fees.

The facility will feature dedicated ceremonial halls accommodating 100–200 guests, ensuring a dignified space for farewells. The surrounding area will include olive groves and memorial gardens, with columbaria available for storing urns.

According to Maureen Watt, Director of Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium Limited, the project aims to provide a regulated and environmentally sustainable cremation service while respecting the cultural and religious diversity of Cyprus.

"We are not here to replace traditions but to offer a choice for those who prefer cremation. We recognize that this is a new and unfamiliar concept for many, and we are committed to providing full transparency, education, and support," she stated.

The crematorium will consist of two floors—a ground floor and a basement—covering a total area of 1,012m². The ground floor will house a reception area, offices, a kitchen, restrooms, and two flexible ceremonial halls for memorial services. The basement will include preparation and refrigeration rooms, a chapel for ashes, two cremation chambers with an advanced emissions control system, and additional underground parking, supplementing 30 outdoor parking spaces.

The crematorium will adopt a modern European cremation system, tested for over a decade and currently used across Europe and the UK.

The facility will be equipped with low-emission, eco-friendly cremation technology that complies with European regulations. Features include:

• Advanced filtration systems, including bag filters, chemical processing with baking soda, and activated carbon filters to minimize emissions.

• Sensors monitoring temperature, carbon monoxide levels, oxygen, and particulate matter to ensure emissions stay within legal limits.

• Biodegradable urns and sustainable options for ash storage.

• Solar technology integration, ensuring minimal energy consumption for ceremonial halls, offices, heating, and cooling systems.

• Rainwater collection systems to irrigate memorial gardens during summer months.

Golden Leaves Cyprus Crematorium Limited emphasizes its commitment to the local economy by using Cypriot materials and local craftsmen in the construction process.

The crematorium was designed in collaboration with Benchmark Architects (UK), internationally recognized experts in crematorium design, and Vefeades & Vefeades Architects, a well-known Cypriot architectural firm based in Nicosia.

Recognizing the cultural and religious sensitivities surrounding cremation, the company will organize public information events to educate the public about the cremation process, environmental standards, and available options.

"This initiative aims to promote transparency and build public trust, addressing any concerns arising from cultural or religious beliefs," the announcement concludes.