Greece is opening its doors to its rich history. Every archaeological location, museum, and historical monument will be accessible without charge, marking the European Heritage Days celebration. To honour the event, Greece offers its unique twist on the European motif of “Living Heritage,” interpreting it as “Yesterday’s Legacy Today.” An initiative of the Council of Europe and the European Commission the European Heritage Days are organized annually since 1999.
This year is particularly momentous, as it commemorates two decades since the inception of the 2003 UNESCO Convention, aimed at preserving Intangible Cultural Heritage. The theme this year serves as a reminder of the intrinsic value of heritage, its ties binding communities, and the legacy of traditions and crafts handed over from one generation to the next.
Participants and viewers over the next few days can expect a diverse array of activities. They’ll be introduced to Greece’s vibrant traditional dances, songs, and age-old festival customs from across its varied regions.
Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Greek delicacies, celebrating both daily meals and festive cuisines. Craftsmanship, spanning the domains of maritime activities, pottery, olive cultivation, traditional fishing methods, and more, will be showcased. Furthermore, stories steeped in local folklore, age-old games, and treasured toys will be on display.
Adding an artistic touch to the celebrations are temporary exhibitions, showcasing visual arts and photography. Moreover, visitors can benefit from guided tours across Greece’s cherished landmarks and museums, spotlighting places steeped in historical narratives and memories, all pivotal to local Greek communities.
European Heritage Days Greek Highlights
At the Acropolis Museum, there’s a family programme called “Deciphering the Present with Stories from Yesteryears“. Here, children between the ages of 6 and 12, accompanied by their guardians, will journey through the museum’s relics, viewing them through the lens of a young Athenian girl from the 5th Century B.C.
The Marathonas Archaeological Museum presents a family-centric program titled “Unravelling Ancient Threads: Textiles and Attires“. Families will embark on a curated museum tour, delving into a child-focused exploration centred on the age-old craft of weaving.
Over at the Kozani/Aiani Archaeological Museum, there’s an event themed “Oenology: Tracing its Roots and Modern Footprints“. Participants will have the privilege of savouring local wines while partaking in a discourse on antiquated botany and the art of vinification.
Finally, the “Mozart’s Fabled Strings” event is slated to unfold at the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights on Rhodes. This will feature a soulful violin concert and the debut display of Mozart’s renowned Costa Violin in Greek shores.
