On October 14 and 15, 2005, The Cyprus American Archaeological Research Institute (CAARI) organized a conference highlighting the American contribution to the restoration and preservation of the medieval frescoes of Cyprus. The Byzantine Center at Dumbarton Oaks of Harvard University in Washington DC led a multi-year effort to protect, preserve and promote the medieval frescoes of Cyprus. For more than a generation, American scholars and institutions have been involved in this effort. CAARI brought retired conservators David Winfield and Susan Boyd who worked on the project to Cyprus to join with local and other foreign experts to re-examine this major contribution of the United States to the Republic of Cyprus. The conference featured an evening public lecture followed by a scholarly session and a visit to two of the restored churches. The Public Affairs Office of the U.S. Embassy in Nicosia generously provided financial support for the conference. Attendees included local church officials who have traditionally been lukewarm towards the USA.