Colonial Intrigues and My Dismissal as Director of Antiquities

A Memoir of Cyprus in the 1930s
In 1934, John Hilton became the first Director of Antiquities in Cyprus, urgently saving ancient monuments. Despite challenges and dismissal, public outcry extended his tenure. His memoir, written 40 years later, humorously recounts his experiences and insights into 1930s colonial Cyprus.

In 1934 John Hilton, a newly qualified young architect, was surprised to find himself appointed the first Director of Antiquities in the British colony of Cyprus. His technical competence was not in doubt but his authority as director was challenged by a rival who enjoyed the confidence of the Governor. After less than a year Hilton found himself dismissed. The outcry in Cyprus and England at his unfair treatment led to his tenure being extended and his rival’s position being abolished.

Hilton’s memoir, composed forty years later but using family letters written at the time, is his own colourful account of this episode. Written fluently with a wry humour, it reveals how much he enjoyed the challenge of his job despite disliking the conventions of colonial society. His account provides an unusual insight into life in 1930s Cyprus, at the time still a relatively isolated and impoverished British colony.

Contributor: Nicholas Stanley-Price (Edited by)

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