“The growth of the festival has been incredibly encouraging. What started as a small musical initiative quickly demonstrated that there is a strong appetite for high-calibre cultural experiences in Cyprus. Our ambition is not simply to make the festival bigger, but to make it richer, more meaningful and even more impactful. We want to continue attracting exceptional artists, expanding the programme and creating opportunities for audiences to engage with music in new ways,” Evangelia Eliadou, Executive Director of Pafilia Property Developers says.
In an interview with CBN, and reflecting on this year’s upcoming Minthis Music Festival, which brings internationally acclaimed classical music creators to the island, Evangelia Eliadou also underscores the importance of creating more space for the arts in Cyprus.
The Minthis Music Festival is returning for another year. What can audiences expect from the experience, and what will the festival entail?
The Minthis Music Festival has evolved into one of Cyprus’ most distinctive cultural events, offering audiences far more than a series of concerts. It is a complete sensory experience that combines world-class music, exceptional hospitality, stunning architecture and the natural beauty of Minthis.
This year, audiences can expect five unforgettable evenings featuring internationally acclaimed musicians and performers from across the world. The programme has been carefully curated by Minthis Music Festival Artistic Director, Massimo Giordano, to present a diverse range of classical and contemporary classical performances, creating memorable moments for both dedicated music enthusiasts and those discovering this genre for the first time.
What makes the festival truly unique is the setting itself. Guests experience extraordinary performances beneath the stars, surrounded by nature, creating an atmosphere that is intimate, inspiring and deeply emotional.
Why is supporting music and the arts important to Pafilia?
At Pafilia, we have always believed that creating exceptional places is about more than architecture and real estate. It is about creating communities, experiences and opportunities that enrich people's lives.
Supporting music and the arts reflects our commitment to cultural development and to enhancing Cyprus as a destination for quality living and international engagement. The arts inspire creativity, encourage dialogue and bring people together across cultures and generations.
Minthis was envisioned as a sanctuary where nature, wellbeing, architecture and culture coexist harmoniously. Investing in cultural initiatives such as the Minthis Music Festival allows us to contribute meaningfully to Cyprus’ cultural landscape while creating experiences that resonate with both local and international audiences.
Ultimately, we see culture as an essential part of a thriving society and an important component of the lifestyle we strive to create at Minthis.
How does the setting of Minthis Resort complement the music and contribute to the overall experience?
Minthis provides an extraordinary backdrop for music. The open-air amphitheatre is surrounded by nature and breathtaking views towards the Troodos mountains, creating a setting that is both dramatic and serene.
There is something magical about experiencing music in an environment where nature becomes part of the performance. As the sun sets and the stars emerge, the atmosphere transforms into something truly special.
The architecture of the amphitheatre was designed to respect and embrace the landscape, and this harmony between design and nature enhances the emotional impact of every performance. Guests are not simply attending a concert; they are immersed in an experience where music, landscape and atmosphere become one.
What criteria guided the selection of the musicians performing this year, and was there also an aim to help promote classical music in Cyprus?
Our primary objective was artistic excellence. Massimo Giordano sought performers who are internationally recognised, exceptional in their craft and capable of creating meaningful connections with audiences.
This year’s programme brings together distinguished artists from some of the world's most prestigious musical institutions, including performers making their Cyprus debut. We wanted to create a programme that balances established masters with artists who bring fresh interpretations and new perspectives to classical music.
Promoting classical music in Cyprus was certainly an important consideration. We believe there is a growing appreciation for high-quality cultural events on the island, and the festival provides a unique opportunity for audiences to experience world-class performances without travelling abroad.
By bringing internationally acclaimed artists to Cyprus, we hope to inspire new audiences, encourage cultural participation and contribute to the continued development of the country's artistic landscape.
The event began as a small, intimate gathering and has since grown into a major annual occasion. How does Pafilia plan to build on that momentum and further enhance the experience in future editions?
The growth of the festival has been incredibly encouraging. What started as a small musical initiative quickly demonstrated that there is a strong appetite for high-calibre cultural experiences in Cyprus.
Our ambition is not simply to make the festival bigger, but to make it richer, more meaningful and even more impactful. We want to continue attracting exceptional artists, expanding the programme and creating opportunities for audiences to engage with music in new ways.
Looking ahead, we envision the festival becoming an increasingly important cultural destination in the region. Our long-term aspiration is to continue extending the programme and establishing Minthis as a recognised international platform for music and the arts.
Most importantly, we want to preserve the qualities that have made the festival successful from the beginning: artistic excellence, authenticity, intimacy and the unique connection between music, nature and people.
