The Centre of Visual Arts & Research (CVAR) is the home of the Costas and Rita Severis Foundation - a non-governmental, non-profit organisation that provides a platform for the exploration of Cyprus’ cultural heritage.

The CVAR is comprised of a four-storey exhibition area, research centre, conference hall, café, roof terrace lounge and gift shop, all housed in a building within the historic walled city of Lefkosia (Nicosia) that was originally an ottoman-era Khan, and was later converted into a flour mill in 1953.

The Centre houses a unique collection of paintings and artefacts that highlight the island's multicultural past over the past three centuries, including artwork, costumes, memorabilia, books and archival material from all over the world, that come from the personal collection of Mr. and Mrs Severis.

In addition to its permanent collections, the CVAR also hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, films and other special events, highlighting the work of local and international artists and scholars.