The value of archived materials in deepening the understanding of the 1955 to 1959 Eoka struggle was outlined by Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis on Tuesday, marking its 70th anniversary.

“The state archives, which took the initiative to organise this conference and is the largest and most important archival institution in Cyprus, preserves a significant number of archives relating to the period of the national liberation struggle of Eoka, such as those of the special courts,” he said at the fourth scientific conference of state archives.

Decrees, photographs and files of fighters stored in the archive would reveal “aspects of the organisation, but also of the individuals themselves who fought for freedom and union with Greece and evolved into heroes,” the minister said.

“The study of these documents strengthens historical memory and contributes to the preservation of national identity, honouring the heroes and ensuring that the greatness of the struggle will never be forgotten,” Hartsiotis said.

According to the minister, approximately 20 kilometres of shelves including private and public material accessible to the public upon request, have been preserved since the establishment of the state archive 47 years ago.

He also said the state archives will be transferred from the justice ministry to the deputy ministry of culture in January.