The photo contest “Memories Made in Cyprus” brought the island’s unique heritage to life during the annual tourism conference hosted by STEK. Held on 27 November 2025, the event showcased a collection of evocative images that powerfully narrated the cultural and natural allure of Cyprus, with distinguished guests including the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr. Kostas Koumis, and leading figures from the tourism industry.
Awarded Photographic Excellence
The top honor was awarded to Maria Maragkou for her piece, “Ekklisaki tis Panagias tis Thalassinis”, which captures the serene and heartfelt spirit of Paphos. The second prize was jointly claimed by Stelios Michailidis for his poetic portrayal in “I Siopis tou Iliovasilematos” and Rafae̱llos Markitanis for his technically refined landscape in “Fragma Prodromou”. The third prize went to Andriani Georgiou for “Chryso Fthinopocho”, an image that elegantly encapsulates the splendor of the Cypriot countryside during autumn.
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Recognized Outstanding Works
In addition to the main prizes, seven other images received accolades for their artistic innovation and narrative depth. These featured subjects ranged from medieval stone bridges and rugged mountain trails to handcrafted art and the wintry vistas of Troodos. Notable recognitions include:
- Ilias Labrou – “To Mesaiotiko Petríno Gefyri tis Miliás”
- Savas Maroullétis – “Istioforo Plio, Plaisio̱menos apo Parathyro”
- Andriani Georgiou – “Chionismeno Troodos”
- Pavlos Pavlou – “To Gefyri tou Jelefontou”
- Kostas Efthivoulou – “Laneia”
- Maria Maragkou – “Hand Made”
- Marios Andreou – “Fading Light, Fading Thoughts”
Rigorous Judging Process
The selection process was overseen by a highly qualified panel including Savvas Perdios, Theodosia Antoniou, Dr. Alexis Saveriadis, Andreas Konstantinou, Socrates Sokráto̱s, Silvio Rousmiko, and Chrysaimili Psilogéni. Their evaluation criteria emphasized a sophisticated blend of aesthetic appeal, technical excellence, and narrative power.
Cyprus: A Tapestry of Captured Memories
STEK expressed its gratitude to all participants, underscoring that the contest celebrates the authentic, heartfelt nature of Cyprus through vivid imagery. The event transformed Cyprus into a visual journey where nature, history, and everyday moments intersect to create enduring memories. This fusion of art and cultural storytelling stands as a testament to the island’s profound appeal in the global tourism landscape.
