The rich archaeological material, collected through long periods of excavations conducted by the 13th Ephorate of Byzantine Antiquities in the Prefecture of Chania, but also through search and donations, forms a Collection which clearly reflects the historical course of the west-end Prefecture of Crete from the paleochristian times to the ottoman rule. Representative specimens of this Collection are exhibited in the church of San Salvatore.
The aim of the exhibition of the Collection is to outline the historical and artistic profile of the prefecture of Chania during the Byzantine and Post-Byzantine times. The exhibits were grouped in the following units: Mosaics, tomb inscriptions, frescoes, icons, architectural sculptures, ceramic works and miniature art, coins.
The works of each unit are presented in chronological succession. Maps and tables inform the visitor about the origin of the exhibits and the historical context of their time.
Telephone: +3028210 96046
Accessible for people with special needs: ΝΑΙ
Source: www.incrediblecrete.gr
Stalos Rema beach
Stalos is an excellent sandy beach located in the coastal settlement of Kato Stalos, seven kilometers west of Chania, between Kalamaki and Agia Marina. Stalos is a developed area and attracts a large number of visitors every summer, because it is so close to Chania and you can get there by regular bus service. The beach is very well organized and it offers all possible tourist services. Pano Stalos,... read more
Nea Chora beach
The sandy beach of Nea Chora is close to Chania – just one kilometer away from the city center – and you can get there on foot in 15 minutes. The beach of Nea Chora is long, with golden sand, a few rocks and blue shallow waters and it is very well organized. Due to its proximity to Chania, the suburb of Nea Chora beach has facilities for accommodation and food. There you will find restaurants,... read more
Marathi beach
The coast in Marathi consists of two wonderful beaches, side by side, with white sand and shallow turquoise waters. There are two fully organized beaches, which are almost always windless, unlike other beaches of northern Crete. The beaches of Marathi are separated by a small port and its pier. Marathi is located at the southeastern part of the peninsula of Akrotiri and is 5 kilometers away from the military... read more
Loutraki beach
The beach of Loutraki is located in the homonymous seaside resort 16 km east of Chania town, near the military base at Souda. Loutraki is a closed bay between hills, surrounded by rocky coasts. The sandy beach of Loutraki has clear water and is very well organized, as it has all the necessary tourist facilities. You can rent umbrellas, eat and drink in the taverns and bars of the area and do water... read more
Kalamaki beach
Kalamaki Beach lies in the homonymous seaside resort that is part of the village of Galatas located six kilometers west of the city of Chania. Kalamaki has fine sand and shallow waters. It is a very well organized beach and there you will find umbrellas, showers, lifeguard services, accommodation, food and everything else you need for a relaxing day at the sea. Locals call Kalamaki the area located... read more
Kalathas Akrotiriou beach
Kalathas is a small natural bay on the Akrotiri peninsula, northwest of Chania. The settlement of Kalathas is located 14 kilometers away from the city and 10 km away from Chania International Airport. Kalathas is actually a new settlement created mainly by those who wanted to live a little outside of Chania. Beach of Kalathas is sandy with palm trees, and within 200 meters of the coast there is a small... read more
Located 15 km from Kavala in Krinides and is one of the most important historical sites in the area. Founded by the father of the Great Alexander and took his name.
Includes, the ancient theater of Philippi (where every summer is organised the homonymous Festival), the Forum and the commercial market, the palaestra, the islands with private houses and early Christian churches. It was founded by Thassian settlersin 360 BC. Very soon, in 356 BC, Thassians, as to face the local Thracian tribes sought the help of Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. Philip B. recognizing the prime location of the city, gave it his name.
The passing of the Egnatia Via through the Philippi area in the 1st century. BC gave the greater weight to the city, and turned it into a benchmark of the region. In 42 BC the Battle of Philippi in the two low hills outside the western city walls caused changes in local and global level. The win of Octavian and Antony, continuing of the policy of Julius Caesar marked the end of democracy , openind the Octavian way for the empire. The site of philippi became a Roman colony (Colonia Augusta Julia Philippensis) who flourished in the second century in 20 sentury AD.
he 49/50 AD Apostole Paul visited the Philippi and founded the first Christian community in Europe. The memory of the visit and his imprisonment remained deeply in the memory and gave an ecumenical Christian pilgrimage character. The city is shrinking in the early of 7th century because of large earthquakes and Slavic raids. Survives in Byzantine times as a fortified castle, keeping its importance due to its location on the main East-West artery land. The complete abandonment occurred with the Turkish conquest in the late of 14th century.
Source: Eastern Macedonia & Thrace
Aesthetic Forest of Strait of Nestos River
It is located at the borders of Kavala and Xanthi prefectures, south of the town of Stavroupoli, with area of 2,380 hectares. It is one of the most beautiful landscapes of Greece with great ecological interest. The visitors can see the plurality of rare plants such as the agriopaschalia, champerlea, red peony and ramnis of Rhodope. At the same time, the region is rich in fauna, with nesting wolves,... read more
Curative Natural Resource Krinides
The health place of krinides, with its therapeutic clay and curative water, geographically belongs to a wider area with rich history that begins with the foundation of the city in 360 B.C. One of the most important archaeological sites of eastern Macedonia is situated in Krinides, Kavala. In this historic region one can come across the ancient thermae, the ancient agora, the ancient theatre of Filippoi,... read more
Archaeological site of Philippi
Located 15 km from Kavala in Krinides and is one of the most important historical sites in the area. Founded by the father of the Great Alexander and took his name. Includes, the ancient theater of Philippi (where every summer is organised the homonymous Festival), the Forum and the commercial market, the palaestra, the islands with private houses and early Christian churches. It was founded by Thassian... read more
Castle of Kavala
The castle of Kavala is at the top of the peninsula where the old city is built. During Byzantine times and after them successive reconstructions and interventions in the fortification by the Byzantines, Venetians and Turks, have been done. The castle (citadel) in its present form, was built in the first quarter of the 15th century, based on Byzantine foundations. In its external theater are held... read more
Nautical Museum of Kavala
The Nautical Museum of Kavala was created in 2005 with the aim of preserving the maritime cultural heritage. Currently is underway the creation of space that will house the Maritime Museum. Nevertheless, members of the Museum are being active by visiting schools, participating in the naval week with nautical exhibits and their participation in international conferences. Source: Eastern Macedonia... read more
The Historical & Literary Archive of Kavala
The Historical & Literary Archive Kavala was founded in 1996. Its current official legal form and recommendation was made in 1996, when it was obvious that the size was so extended and with important historriacal value that it should be organized with modern methods and standards, based on scientific foundations files, to present a valuable historical material being collected the past 50 years. The... read more
Excavations of the site started in the late 1960’s and have brought to light:
The theatre of the city, in which two architectural phases are distinguished, dated to the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
A sanctuary, probably of Dionysos, dated to the 4th century B.C. , a large Hellenistic house with a mosaic floor, two extensive building complexes, most probably of public function, also dated to the Hellenistic period, parts of the fortification wall of the Classical city.
It was constructed in the Hellenistic period and remodelled in Roman times. Preserved are: three rows of stone seats of the cavea, the central and the horseshoe-shaped conduit of the orchestra, and the building of the Roman skene.
Source: Eastern Macedonia & Thrace
Medieval bridge in Polyanthos
The bridge is located at the exit of Kompsatos, which stems from mountainous Rodopi, is crossed Thracian valley and empties into Lake Vistonida. In the surrounding area have identified several sites with pre-Christian and Christian antiquities with main Byzantine castle of Polyanthos and an aisled basilica between the village of Polianthos and the bridge. [su_slider source="media: 10115,10116,10117,10118"... read more
Ancient Theater Maronia
Excavations of the site started in the late 1960's and have brought to light: The theatre of the city, in which two architectural phases are distinguished, dated to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. A sanctuary, probably of Dionysos, dated to the 4th century B.C. , a large Hellenistic house with a mosaic floor, two extensive building complexes, most probably of public function, also dated to the Hellenistic... read more
Megalithic Gate of ancient Ismara
The settlement of Maronia spread over a vast area, from Ismaros Mountain to the Ptelea Lake. Several monuments are today labeled and countless others are scattered throughout the olive groves and the mountainous landscapes of Ismaro. Worth seeing sights are the fortification of Agios Georgios (the megalithic Gate), the complex of Roman times, the walls of the citadel Agios Athanasios (the walls... read more
Music Hall at Komotini
The idea to build a large cultural and conference center in Komotini began in the mid of 1980 decade. Finally study commissioned by the famous architect Nikos Valsamaki but construction was delayed due to lack of funding. Eventually a portion of the building was constructed and completed in the year 2010.To Hall Komotini is located in Santa Varvara, near the camp Iliopoulos and is the third of Greece.... read more
Clock Tower
The Clock Tower was built in 1884, the era of Sultan Abdul Hamid B. In the decade of 1950 became architectural interventions and took its current form. Behind the tower rises the minaret of the mosque of Yeni Mosque from the balcony where the muezzin calls the faithful of Islam to prayer. In the courtyard housed the religious authority of Muslims Rhodope, the Mufti of Komotini. At the southwestern... read more
Thracian Museum of Education of the Association...
The Thracian Museum of Education of the Association of Educational Sciences was founded in 1992 to collect and exhibit school objects, documents and books of historical importance, mainly Thracian and of the wider area. Such museums are currently scarce in our country and it is worth noting what, perhaps, is the only rich collection with photographs and a series of wonderful saved school objects that... read more
The hill of Agia Petra in south-eastern side of Didymoteicho has been largely associated with the Roman Plotinopoli. The city was founded by the Roman emperor Trajan, named in honor of his wife Plotina. This hill, in a strategic position, attracted the archaeological interest before the Second World War. In 1965, during the construction of a trench by soldiers was found a hammered gold bust of the Roman emperor Septimius Severus (193-21 AD), which is now kept in the Museum of
Komotini.
Systematic excavations conducted by the 19th Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities of Komotini the summer of 1977 and in the early 80s, while excavations in the area have been ongoing since 1996 until today. The excavation have revealed a large complex with wonderful Roman mosaics, which was in use from the 2nd until the end of the 6th century. It was also found part of baths with its hypocaust (the heating room under the baths). The most impressive of all the findings, is a large stone well of 12.67 m depth, the bottom of which has not yet been identified. In the northern part there is an opening that leads to a vaulted chamber, which was used to pump water from the well. The complex is a unique example of hydraulic architecture, it is associated with the water supply of the city and is probably contemporary with its foundation (early 2nd century AD).
Finally, what it is also interesting, are portable findings of the excavation, dating from the Neolithic to the Late Roman.
Source: Eastern Macedonia & Thrace
Curative Natural Resource Traianoupoli
The hot curative springs of Traianoupoli were a major attraction from ancient times. The city of Traianoupoli was built by the Roman emperor Traianos in the beginning of the 2nd century A.D. According to tradition, Traianos (106/7 A.D.) on his way to and from war for Dakia created “agores”. He founded schools, libraries, baths (thermae). The foundation of Traianoupoli fell within the reconstruction... read more
Castle in Pythion
The Castle in Pythio (of the Byzantine Empythio) is located 16 km north of Didymoteicho, near the railway bridge, which enters from the Greek to the Turkish ground. It was built from 1331 to 1341 by Ioannis Kantakouzenos VI, who used it to control the crossings from the valley of the Evros river. Back then, this great river was navigable almost until Filipoypoli and it was the main commercial artery... read more
Ancient Plotinoupoli
The hill of Agia Petra in south-eastern side of Didymoteicho has been largely associated with the Roman Plotinopoli. The city was founded by the Roman emperor Trajan, named in honor of his wife Plotina. This hill, in a strategic position, attracted the archaeological interest before the Second World War. In 1965, during the construction of a trench by soldiers was found a hammered gold bust of the Roman... read more
Archaeological Site Zone Messimvria
Messemvria-Zone, a colony of Samothraki the late 7th century BC, initially served the needs of the diocese in agricultural products and commercial communication with the Thracian tribes of the hinterland. But the original rural character passed almost early - in the 6th century B.C. - in a second place, as well as trading and maritime movement of goods proved to be very safe and profitable. So the city... read more
Archaelogical exhibition of Spileo
At the basement of the municipal refreshment of Spileo, at the "Koryfi" (“Top”) area, in a beautiful natural environment, with the view of the plains of Arda and Adrianoupoli, there is the archaeological educational exhibition of Spileo. In a space that was remodeled, after a museological study, with new design and proper lighting, the visitor can see a photographic exhibition of archaeological... read more
Municipal picture gallery of Didymoteicho
Inside the castle, former residence of Vafeiadis, the renovated building of the Greek interwar, is housed the Municipal Gallery of Didymoteicho. It was founded in 2000 to host the works of the internationally renowned painter Dimitrios Nalbandis. t was decorated internally and externally in eleven months time by the same painter, under voluntary offer to its hometown and the memory of his mother.... read more
Messemvria-Zone, a colony of Samothraki the late 7th century BC, initially served the needs of the diocese in agricultural products and commercial communication with the Thracian tribes of the hinterland. But the original rural character passed almost early – in the 6th century B.C. – in a second place, as well as trading and maritime movement of goods proved to be very safe and profitable. So the city developed quickly to an important commercial center and was highly developed
during the 5th and 4th century B.C.
The financial health of the city reveals the amount of two coins, established for the contribution to the fund of the First Athenian Alliance. But the penetration of Athenian power in the region, the imposition to the colonies of Samothraki a rather heavy burden of tax and possibly events that are missing completely written historical evidence, led to the gradual decline.
According to some testimonies, Aesop, the great storytellers of antiquity had originated from this city. The archaeological site of Messimvria are remnants of the Sanctuary of Dimitra and the Temple of Apollo. On the west side lies the main part of town, where among other buildings, there are two public buildings, but also an impressive location where dozens of traditional earthenware jars kept.
Source: Eastern Macedonia & Thrace
Curative Natural Resource Traianoupoli
The hot curative springs of Traianoupoli were a major attraction from ancient times. The city of Traianoupoli was built by the Roman emperor Traianos in the beginning of the 2nd century A.D. According to tradition, Traianos (106/7 A.D.) on his way to and from war for Dakia created “agores”. He founded schools, libraries, baths (thermae). The foundation of Traianoupoli fell within the reconstruction... read more
Castle in Pythion
The Castle in Pythio (of the Byzantine Empythio) is located 16 km north of Didymoteicho, near the railway bridge, which enters from the Greek to the Turkish ground. It was built from 1331 to 1341 by Ioannis Kantakouzenos VI, who used it to control the crossings from the valley of the Evros river. Back then, this great river was navigable almost until Filipoypoli and it was the main commercial artery... read more
Ancient Plotinoupoli
The hill of Agia Petra in south-eastern side of Didymoteicho has been largely associated with the Roman Plotinopoli. The city was founded by the Roman emperor Trajan, named in honor of his wife Plotina. This hill, in a strategic position, attracted the archaeological interest before the Second World War. In 1965, during the construction of a trench by soldiers was found a hammered gold bust of the Roman... read more
Archaeological Site Zone Messimvria
Messemvria-Zone, a colony of Samothraki the late 7th century BC, initially served the needs of the diocese in agricultural products and commercial communication with the Thracian tribes of the hinterland. But the original rural character passed almost early - in the 6th century B.C. - in a second place, as well as trading and maritime movement of goods proved to be very safe and profitable. So the city... read more
Archaelogical exhibition of Spileo
At the basement of the municipal refreshment of Spileo, at the "Koryfi" (“Top”) area, in a beautiful natural environment, with the view of the plains of Arda and Adrianoupoli, there is the archaeological educational exhibition of Spileo. In a space that was remodeled, after a museological study, with new design and proper lighting, the visitor can see a photographic exhibition of archaeological... read more
Municipal picture gallery of Didymoteicho
Inside the castle, former residence of Vafeiadis, the renovated building of the Greek interwar, is housed the Municipal Gallery of Didymoteicho. It was founded in 2000 to host the works of the internationally renowned painter Dimitrios Nalbandis. t was decorated internally and externally in eleven months time by the same painter, under voluntary offer to its hometown and the memory of his mother.... read more
Archaeological site of Avdira, in the cape of Bouloustra includes the northern and southern precincts, the acropolis of the ancient city and its cemeteries, extending mainly to the NW, N and NE, dating from the Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic periods.
Place in the northern precinct preserved sections of the wall and one room buildings prior Clazomenia city of Asia Minor, 7th century BC., parts of the wall of Tiion, the 6th-5th century BC, boathouse of the same era, located on the
northeastern edge of the harbor before the region become a land of silting, the ruins of a sanctuary of Dimitra and Kori, dating to the 6th-4th century BC., and the Hellenistic cemetery. The main excavated and visited part of the the site is close to the current port. This is the western part of the southern precinct of the city, which distinguished the western wall, gate towers, roads and houses. First buildings that meets the visitor before entering the ancient city are houses of imperial times, they do not follow the Hippodamio system, the royal Christian cemetery of Polystylo, and luxurious bath ruins of imperial times, from which we can distinguish oval hall and stairway leading to the hypocausts. The residential phase is distinguished belongs to imperial times.
Apart from visitable parts of the space ther are much more excavated within a certain distance between them, but none of them the excavation has been completed. At the southern end rises the acropolis of the ancient city, which survives only part of the ancient wall, while the western end, the sea, is distinguished the western breakwater of the harbor. The second port city, eastern, located on the northeast side of the southern precinct. Here also distinguished the jetty and warehouses. Although the image of the ancient city is quite good, especially with regard to private residences, shops, walls and tombs of the inhabitants of the Byzantine of Polystylo, do not identified public buildings. The only public building that we know is the theater, which is located between the northern and southern wall, on a hillside, but they are so damaged they can not be visited. Right now the archaeological site of Avdira remains closed due to lack of security personnel. But there is a possibility to visit during working days and hours upon request.
Source: Eastern Macedonia & Thrace
Riverside forest Kotza Orman or Large Forest
The riparian forest Kotza Orman or Large Forest isa priceless landscape of ecological value and beauty. It was once one of the largest aquatic of Europe, since the "50s there had been recorded 74,000 acres. However,in 1946, 54,000 acres were out of it and given to farmers for cultivation, leaving a small part, which the Forest Service of Kavala is trying to preserve by fencing perimeter stretches... read more
Aesthetic Forest of Strait of Nestos River
It is located at the borders of Kavala and Xanthi prefectures, south of the town of Stavroupoli, with area of 2,380 hectares. It is one of the most beautiful landscapes of Greece with great ecological interest. The visitors can see the plurality of rare plants such as the agriopaschalia, champerlea, red peony and ramnis of Rhodope. At the same time, the region is rich in fauna, with nesting wolves,... read more
Forest of Chaidou
In the Rhodope Mountains, on the border with Bulgaria, there is the Drimos Forest, also known as Chaidou. The forest Chaidou is an earthly paradise with huge centennial beech of over 30 meters height. Apart from the beech forest there is also a large variety of vegetation that grows in the mountains of Rhodope, such as pines, firs, spruces and yellow lilies. It is also a habitat of bears, wolves... read more
Curative Natural Resource Genisaia (Potamia)
The thermal city of Potamia is situated at the 18th kilometre of the road Xanthi – Komotini. People of the intellect, the arts and literature, like Dimokritos, Protagoras, Leykippos were born and thrived in the historical area of Avdira. In a small distance, lies Vistonida lake, one of the most important wetlands of Greece and a little further is the picturesque port of Porto Lagos. The visitor can combine... read more
Archaeological site of Avdira
Archaeological site of Avdira, in the cape of Bouloustra includes the northern and southern precincts, the acropolis of the ancient city and its cemeteries, extending mainly to the NW, N and NE, dating from the Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic periods. Place in the northern precinct preserved sections of the wall and one room buildings prior Clazomenia city of Asia Minor, 7th century BC., parts... read more
Old Town of Xanthi
The Old Town of Xanthi is located in the north of Xanthi constituting its historic core and covers an area of 380.000m2. The city is built after 1829. The year that large earthquakes fully deplete the previous settlement. The city is built on the ruins and with core the churches, which were probably from the era of Byzantine Xanthia, as it was called from ancient time the city of Xanthi. During... read more
The settlement of Maronia spread over a vast area, from Ismaros Mountain to the Ptelea Lake. Several monuments are today labeled and countless others are scattered throughout the olive groves and the mountainous landscapes of Ismaro.
Worth seeing sights are the fortification of Agios Georgios (the megalithic Gate), the complex of Roman times, the walls of the citadel Agios Athanasios (the walls had an estimated length of over 10 km!) and the huge ancient carved granite winepress.
There is not a labeled road but 4×4 vehicle can proceed even 700 meters close to the site. It is a three minutes’ walk following the signs or the left arrows and you will arrive at the Megalithic Gate with its monolithic representations. Walking right for 15 minutes and following the signs you will reach the carved winepress.
Source: Eastern Macedonia & Thrace
Medieval bridge in Polyanthos
The bridge is located at the exit of Kompsatos, which stems from mountainous Rodopi, is crossed Thracian valley and empties into Lake Vistonida. In the surrounding area have identified several sites with pre-Christian and Christian antiquities with main Byzantine castle of Polyanthos and an aisled basilica between the village of Polianthos and the bridge. [su_slider source="media: 10115,10116,10117,10118"... read more
Ancient Theater Maronia
Excavations of the site started in the late 1960's and have brought to light: The theatre of the city, in which two architectural phases are distinguished, dated to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. A sanctuary, probably of Dionysos, dated to the 4th century B.C. , a large Hellenistic house with a mosaic floor, two extensive building complexes, most probably of public function, also dated to the Hellenistic... read more
Megalithic Gate of ancient Ismara
The settlement of Maronia spread over a vast area, from Ismaros Mountain to the Ptelea Lake. Several monuments are today labeled and countless others are scattered throughout the olive groves and the mountainous landscapes of Ismaro. Worth seeing sights are the fortification of Agios Georgios (the megalithic Gate), the complex of Roman times, the walls of the citadel Agios Athanasios (the walls... read more
Music Hall at Komotini
The idea to build a large cultural and conference center in Komotini began in the mid of 1980 decade. Finally study commissioned by the famous architect Nikos Valsamaki but construction was delayed due to lack of funding. Eventually a portion of the building was constructed and completed in the year 2010.To Hall Komotini is located in Santa Varvara, near the camp Iliopoulos and is the third of Greece.... read more
Clock Tower
The Clock Tower was built in 1884, the era of Sultan Abdul Hamid B. In the decade of 1950 became architectural interventions and took its current form. Behind the tower rises the minaret of the mosque of Yeni Mosque from the balcony where the muezzin calls the faithful of Islam to prayer. In the courtyard housed the religious authority of Muslims Rhodope, the Mufti of Komotini. At the southwestern... read more
Thracian Museum of Education of the Association...
The Thracian Museum of Education of the Association of Educational Sciences was founded in 1992 to collect and exhibit school objects, documents and books of historical importance, mainly Thracian and of the wider area. Such museums are currently scarce in our country and it is worth noting what, perhaps, is the only rich collection with photographs and a series of wonderful saved school objects that... read more
My journey to ‘DIAZOMA’ has been a long one with many ports of call: Kalamata, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of the Interior, Administration and Decentralization, Ministry of the Aegean. On the way I have been involved with the reconstruction of a town destroyed by earthquake, the enhancement of its historical centre, cultural networks, Castrorum Circumnavigatio, a programme on ancient theatres, island policies, Citizen Service Centres… Ports of call en route to a destination of which I am not yet aware, which has not yet taken a specific shape.
Caring for monuments has always been a special part of my life. I cannot look upon them as ruins, as something dead. I see in them living organisms transmitting messages of knowledge, wisdom, aesthetics, harmony, dialogue with the environment and nature, as transmitting messages of life. And I have always disagreed with the classic treatment of monuments, that which treats them as museum pieces, which puts them to one side, on the margins of our era, which is blind to their secret life, which ignores their own adaptability and harmonization with every historical period.
That is why, wherever I have passed, I have tried in every way to include them in the daily life of the place and the people. From the Neoclassical buildings of Kalamata and the restoration of the town’s historical centre to the opening of archaeological sites on summer nights with a full moon, all my actions have been in the same direction, aimed at the same ultimate target and inspired by the same philosophy.
Τhe ancient theatres are unique examples of exceptional architecture. Culminating achievements of ancient Greek civilization. Works of art built to host works of art. Buildings that concentrate in their structure, their parts and their details the originality, the grace, the sagacity, the expression of democracy and of citizens’ participation. In other words, the best of what the Greek spirit offers. Buildings which have been keeping the usefulness and the uniqueness of their form alive and up to date for centuries.
These characteristics led me to combine my ideas on monuments with ancient theatres. I started this particular endeavour five or six years ago. I failed. ‘Wherever you fail go back and wherever you succeed leave’, says Kazantzakis. I paid him heed. A couple of years ago, I returned. It seems that the right moment had come. The time was now ripe for a more dynamic confrontation of the monuments. The time was ripe for certain things to go ahead, because we take their fortunes into our own hands. And we help them to proceed. We take part in their development. The time was now ripe for creating a Movement of Citizens, of a large group of people, which can see beyond the miserly limits of a short-sighted age, which feels the primary right to demand transcendence of the dreary daily routine, by including monuments in our daily life.
At once I found myself surrounded by an enthusiastic and dynamic group of people, which widened in the blink of an eye. All of them, ‘as one long prepared…’ Scholars, intellectuals, artists, people in local government and pro-active citizens embraced ‘DIAZOMA’. Fellow-citizens who have decided that the research, study, protection, enhancement and, wherever feasible, the use of ancient theatres and other venues for spectators and listeners, such as ancient odeia and stadia, are also their concern. And they are resolved to take these monuments’ fortunes into their own hands, to work together dynamically, as helpers of the State and the services responsible, in the major task of including ancient theatres in modern life.
‘DIAZOMA’ has been a reality since 8 July 2008.
It aspires to be a model Association in the way it functions, in the transparency of its economic management, the effectiveness of its actions, the achievement of its goals. Our aim is not to find, nor simply to persuade, but to inspire the big sponsors, to assist the services responsible, to mobilize the Ministry of Culture, to draw more and more of our fellow-citizens along with us in our work.
And it is my hope that ‘DIAZOMA’ will be an Association that expresses a new way of thinking, of dealing with and managing affairs that concern us all. An Association that mobilizes both Citizens and State.
Stavros Benos
President
Ancient Theatres – Ancient Theatres’ Identity
Source: www.diazoma.gr
The new aspect of tourism, Sitia Geopark
When the Sitia region became a member of the UNESCO Geopark family, we had no idea just how much positive change this would bring! This new aspect of tourism “Sitia Geopark”, is proving to be a considerable point of interest, especially in the alternative tourism market. The natural environment is no longer an obstacle for tourism development, on the contrary it is a great attraction for visitors. We... read more
“Dora Stratou” Performance Information...
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION 2020 "Dora Stratou" Greek Dances Theatre, Philopappou Hill Garden Theatre - The living museum of Greek dance www.grdance.org OPENING NIGHT 27 May 2020 CLOSING NIGHT 20 September 2020 PERFORMANCES Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 21:30. Saturday and Sunday 20:30. Monday, Tuesday (27, 28 June, 1-5 July and 12-23 August) closed or organizes additional... read more
Ancient Symposium, A theme site full of knowledge...
“SYMPOSIUM” was established by Georgios and Emmanouel Roussis. We are a family of artists, a father and his son, who have had a passion for sculpture and, lately, for ancient Greek wine-making. Both Georgios and Emmanouel Roussis studied at the School of Fine Arts in Athens and Florina respectively, at the Department of Sculpture, with a scholarship. They are ordinary members of the Greek Chamber... read more
Hellenic Culture Museum
The Hellenic Culture Museum is located in the city center of Kalambaka and houses the private collection of Mr Pavlos Balogiannis in a space of 1000 sq.meters dedicated to the history of Greek education and learning, aspiring to serve its educational and cultural orientation. The museum aims at the preservation,study, promotion and encancement of Greek Education and its values and hopes to establish... read more
The 2019 Epidaurus Festival programme is announced
The 2019 Epidaurus Festival was announced by the artistic director of Athens & Epidaurus Festival, Vangelis Theodoropoulos, on Monday 22 October, in a press conference held at the Athens Conservatoire. ANCIENT THEATRE OF EPIDAURUS 21 & 22 June Oedipus Directed by Robert Wilson Co-production: ConversAzioni - Teatro Olimpico Vicenza - Pompeii Theatrum Mundi - Teatro Stabile di Napoli NATIONAL... read more
Apaliros castle
This is a very important castle, built on a steep hill in the fields of Sangri and Agiassos. According to researchers, it took its name after the abundant “apaliries”, a kind of bush that sprouts there. It was erected in the first years of the Byzantine era, though probably there was already a fortification in the antiquity, because part of the wall is prehistoric. It was abandoned in the 13th... read more
At a distance of about 45 minutes from Chalandriani a prehistoric settlement from the later years of the Early Cycladic period II has been discovered covering an area of 3.5 to 5 acres. In this area the excavations brought to light a graveyard with about 600 tombs as well as ruins of inestimable value that indicate that ceramic, stone and metalwork has been developed in the area.
Various vases, jewelry and household items were also found during the excavations in the region indicating that this was a highly developed settlement. The two archaeological sites Chalandriani & Kastri are linked with a long and rough path that is definitely worth the while as it leads into the depths of history.
Source: www.syrosisland.gr
Kastri
At a distance of about 45 minutes from Chalandriani a prehistoric settlement from the later years of the Early Cycladic period II has been discovered covering an area of 3.5 to 5 acres. In this area the excavations brought to light a graveyard with about 600 tombs as well as ruins of inestimable value that indicate that ceramic, stone and metalwork has been developed in the area. Various vases,... read more
The Aquarium in Kini
The aquarium in Kini is one of the most popular attractions for both children and adults as it enables visitors to experience the magical marine world of the Aegean Sea and study in depth the marine flora and fauna. The Aquarium boasts an educational character as it invites guests to learn everything there is to know about the sea as well as the sea activities and equipment used in such cases so as to awaken... read more
Pherecydes Cave
On the road to Ano Syros and shortly after the rural settlement of Kyperoussa one can find the cave of Pherecydes. To reach the cave he must follow a small dirt road that slowly begins to go downhill leading visitors to a magnificent land nuzzled between the earth, the sky and the blue horizon. That’s where the cave where the theogonist poet and philosopher Pherecydes used to reside during the cold... read more
Chalandriani
Chalandriani is located 9.5 kilometers away from Ermoupolis, on the northeast side of the island and it is one of the most important archaeological sites within the Cyclades as a prehistoric acropolis dating back to the 3rd millennium BC has been discovered in the area after excavations conducted by Christos Tsountas in the late 19th century. Source: www.syrosisland.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj... read more
Historic Theater Apollon
The historic Theater Apollon is one of the major attractions of Syros and constitutes an emblem of the island’s cultural heritage. Created in 1864 by the Italian architect Pietro Sampo who was inspired by 4 stunning Italian standards including the Scala di Milano, the theater Apollon adorns the heart of the capital to this day. The Apollo Theater first opened its doors with an Italian theater troupe... read more
Agathopes Beach
Agathopes beach is one of the most popular beaches of Syros, just 14 km from Hermoupolis. It is a beautiful beach with golden sand and shallow waters, offering all the comforts as well as easy access by bus making it a perfect choice for a memorable day on the beach. Guests can swim in the clear blue waters and enjoy a coffee or meal in the cafeterias and taverns along the beach. Just 1 km from... read more
On the road to Ano Syros and shortly after the rural settlement of Kyperoussa one can find the cave of Pherecydes.
To reach the cave he must follow a small dirt road that slowly begins to go downhill leading visitors to a magnificent land nuzzled between the earth, the sky and the blue horizon. That’s where the cave where the theogonist poet and philosopher Pherecydes used to reside during the cold winter months in the 6th century BC.
Source: www.syrosisland.gr
Kastri
At a distance of about 45 minutes from Chalandriani a prehistoric settlement from the later years of the Early Cycladic period II has been discovered covering an area of 3.5 to 5 acres. In this area the excavations brought to light a graveyard with about 600 tombs as well as ruins of inestimable value that indicate that ceramic, stone and metalwork has been developed in the area. Various vases,... read more
The Aquarium in Kini
The aquarium in Kini is one of the most popular attractions for both children and adults as it enables visitors to experience the magical marine world of the Aegean Sea and study in depth the marine flora and fauna. The Aquarium boasts an educational character as it invites guests to learn everything there is to know about the sea as well as the sea activities and equipment used in such cases so as to awaken... read more
Pherecydes Cave
On the road to Ano Syros and shortly after the rural settlement of Kyperoussa one can find the cave of Pherecydes. To reach the cave he must follow a small dirt road that slowly begins to go downhill leading visitors to a magnificent land nuzzled between the earth, the sky and the blue horizon. That’s where the cave where the theogonist poet and philosopher Pherecydes used to reside during the cold... read more
Chalandriani
Chalandriani is located 9.5 kilometers away from Ermoupolis, on the northeast side of the island and it is one of the most important archaeological sites within the Cyclades as a prehistoric acropolis dating back to the 3rd millennium BC has been discovered in the area after excavations conducted by Christos Tsountas in the late 19th century. Source: www.syrosisland.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj... read more
Historic Theater Apollon
The historic Theater Apollon is one of the major attractions of Syros and constitutes an emblem of the island’s cultural heritage. Created in 1864 by the Italian architect Pietro Sampo who was inspired by 4 stunning Italian standards including the Scala di Milano, the theater Apollon adorns the heart of the capital to this day. The Apollo Theater first opened its doors with an Italian theater troupe... read more
Agathopes Beach
Agathopes beach is one of the most popular beaches of Syros, just 14 km from Hermoupolis. It is a beautiful beach with golden sand and shallow waters, offering all the comforts as well as easy access by bus making it a perfect choice for a memorable day on the beach. Guests can swim in the clear blue waters and enjoy a coffee or meal in the cafeterias and taverns along the beach. Just 1 km from... read more