The challenges faced by women on the path to success in archaeology were discussed at the headquarters of the Research Centre of the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology, University of Warsaw in Paphos. The event featured Beata Kukiel-Vraila, author of the book Archaeology Without Makeup, and Prof. Ewdoksia Papuci-Władyka.
The meeting was devoted not only to the publication itself, but also to the scholarly and organisational achievements of Prof. Papuci-Władyka. It brought together representatives of the archaeological community as well as friends and supporters of Polish archaeological research in Cyprus. The municipal authorities of Paphos — a city connected with sixty years of Polish archaeological activity — were represented by Acting Mayor Aggelos Onisiphorou, while the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Cyprus was represented by Agata Szczepanowska. Among the guests were also Dr Eustathis Raptou, Nikolas and Giannis Koulountis from the architectural office supporting the Centre, and Dr Anthi Chrysanthou.
During the discussion, Beata Kukiel-Vraila emphasised both the academic achievements and personal qualities of Prof. Papuci-Władyka, describing her as an outstanding scholar and a person deeply committed to archaeological research and international academic cooperation.
“Professor Papuci-Władyka is not only an outstanding scholar, but also a wonderful person,” emphasised Beata Kukiel-Vraila, author of the book and Assistant Director of PAIA. “When you are with her, you feel as if you are with your best friend.”
Part of the programme included a visit to the archaeological park in Paphos. Reflecting on the experience, Beata Kukiel-Vraila noted: “I had the opportunity to see the archaeological park through the eyes of Professor Papuci-Władyka. It was both fascinating and moving. Beyond the history of this place, I could sense her genuine passion, love, attachment, and devotion to this land and to the stories of the people who once lived here.” She added: “As I looked at those magnificent mosaics, I thought that the Professor is, in a way, an integral part of them.”
Archaeology Without Makeup is the first publication in the “PAIA Culture” series. The bilingual (Polish-English) book features interviews with Prof. Ewdoksia Papuci-Władyka, Prof. Marzena Szmyt, Dr Zofia Stos-Gale, Dr Stephanie Aulsebrook, Prof. Agata Ulanowska, Prof. Inga Głuszek, Prof. Bogumiła Kaniewska, and Prof. Véronique Chankowski.
