WHAT ARE CYCLADE BOATS, AND WHY ARE THEY SO EXCITING?
Imagine an archipelago stretching majestically across the Aegean Sea, known as the Cyclades Islands—where history and culture thrive. Archaeological discoveries have revealed that over four thousand five hundred years ago, these islands were intricately connected to the mainland, forming a vibrant trade and communication network. The Cycladic civilisation stood out as a beacon of cultural influence in the Aegean region, leaving a legacy that fascinates us today.
Cyclade boats were the lifelines of these islands, essential for connecting them to the mainland. They also served as trade vessels, enabling the exchange of goods and ideas that shaped the essence of life in the ancient Aegean.
This project embarks on an exhilarating journey to uncover how these remarkable boats facilitated a thriving network of commerce and communication, providing a unique glimpse into maritime practices during the early Bronze Age.
WHAT KIND OF BOAT IS BEING BUILT?WHAT KIND OF BOATS ARE BEING MANUFACTURED?
While the original designs remain mysterious, stunning depictions on rock reliefs and ceramics have inspired our undertaking.
In the spirit of revival, we are constructing three incredible boats for the Reanimation Project: one measuring an impressive 14 meters and two grand vessels stretching 19 meters long! The most remarkable feature of these boats lies in the ingenious use of plant fibres to bind the wooden layers after placing the keel—an ancient technique that brings history to life in an exciting way.
The fruits of our labour from the Reanimation of Cyclades Boats Project were dramatically showcased from May 23 to October 31, 2011, at the “From Coast to Coast – 3000 BC Cyclades Islands and Western Anatolia” exhibition at the Sakip Sabanci Museum. Ertugrul Gunay, the Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey, and Pavlos Gerulanos, the Minister of Culture and Tourism of Greece, graced this spectacular event. Their attendance marked a meaningful celebration of our shared heritage and the adventure of rediscovering the past!
Project Partners
• Yunanistan Kültür ve Turizm Bakanlığı, • Atina Milli Arkeoloji Müzesi, • N. P. Goulandris Vakfı Kiklad Sanatı Müzesi, • Ankara Üniversitesi
