Michalis Olympios

Michalis Olympios is an Associate Professor of History of Western Art at the Department of History and Archaeology, University of Cyprus, where he has held positions since 2007. His academic career spans roles from Special Scientist (2007-11), Lecturer (2011-15), Assistant Professor (2015-20), to his current Associate Professorship (2020-present). He specializes in medieval art history and Gothic architecture, with a focus on the Latin East, Crusader kingdoms, and Cypriot architectural identity.

• PhD in Art History (Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London, 2005-10)
• MA in Art History (Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London, 2004-05)
• Bachelor’s in History and Archaeology (National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 1999-2003)

His research explores Gothic architecture in Cyprus and the Latin East, focusing on sacred space, liturgical interaction, and stylistic hybridity. Recent publications analyze Gothic church design, monumental cenotaphs, and Venetian architectural nostalgia. His 15 most recent articles (2009-2025) span topics like Cypriot monastic architecture, mendicant church ornamentation, and Gothic adaptation in the Eastern Mediterranean.

• 2023-26: Corresponding Fellow, International Center of Medieval Art
• 2018: Getty Research Institute Guest Scholar
• 2015-17: Member, SOAS Art of the Crusades seminar (funded by Getty Foundation)
• 2012-14: Visiting Research Associate, King’s College London

He has secured grants including the Leventis Foundation project on Nicosia’s Bedestan (2017-19) and collaborative research on Saint-Omer Collegiate Church (2011-16). As co-editor of Frankokratia, he contributes to international scholarship on Greek lands under Latin rule.