On Wednesday 12th August there was an official opening of the group exhibition of art and photography entitled “Four seasons in the Municipality of Platanias”, which was organised by the Municipality at the Polykentro in Voukolies.
The exhibition, which is open until 11th September, brings together works by artists who are resident in the Municipality of Platanias, inspired by the locality and the four seasons of the year. Through their different artistic perspectives they show off the natural landscape, the villages, the monuments, the architecture and particular aspects of the area.
In an address during the inauguration, the Mayor of Platanias Giannis Malandrakis congratulated the artists on their participation, their creativity and their talent, while referring to the importance of the Polykentro of Voukolies as a home for culture and creativity. “Through this exhibition,” he said, “our locality is portrayed through different artistic eyes, showing off its beauty and its particular physiognomy. The Polykentro of Voukolies continues to be a space open to culture, creativity and self-expression.”
Greetings were also received from the leader of the Regional Council of Crete Sofia Malandraki-Krasoudaki, who referred to the importance of cultural activities which highlight the local area and strengthen the connection between art and the local community. The Deputy Mayor for Culture of the Municipality of Platanias Polychronis Simandirakis thanked the artists for their participation and their response to the Municipality’s initiative.
A special moment of the evening was devoted to the memory of local artist Janet Liodaki, who died in May of this year and is the subject of a special tribute in the exhibition. Ioannis N. Archontakis, Director of the “Olivepress” Museum of Contemporary Art of Chania at Dromonero, and advisor in the curation of the exhibition, made reference to the work and the artistic career of Janet Liodaki, honouring her memory and her artistic legacy.
Also present at the inauguration were the Deputy Mayors Giorgos Kalaitzakis and Artemis Koutsaftakis, Municipal Councillor Giannis Darakis, member of the Voukolies Local Council Haridimos Bobolakis, representatives of local organisations and members of the public.
Visitors at the inauguration, 12th August 2026. Photo: Haniotika Nea.
The following artists have taken part in the exhibition: Maria Angelaki, Michail Alexakis, Chrysoula Glabedaki, Marianthi Theodoraki, Nefeli Kalogeraki-Petra, Anna Kartaki Petraki, Christini Kanitsaki, Anton Kwantes, Matthaios Koukakis, Lucyna Kukosz, Maria Ledaki, Matthaios Makaronas, Georgia Mavrogeni, Anna Balantinaki, Eleftheria Bitzanaki, Angeliki Boraki, Ippolyti Papakostidi, Katie Pentari-Psaraki, Tiffany Riley, Manama Rostiashvili, Aria Roumeliotaki, Eleni Tzagaraki, Evangelia Tzagaraki, Kalliopi Tsimitsi, Eleni Frantzeskaki-Kataki, Dionysis Harisis and John Houston, while there is an honorary display of two pictures in memory of Janet Liodaki.
The exhibition will remain open to the public until 11th September 2026, with opening hours 09:00 to 12:00 Monday to Friday and 19:00 to 21:00 Monday to Wednesday. Admission is free. (Haniotika Nea, 15/08/26)
The pictures A visit to the exhibition this week proved to be well worth the trip, revealing a variety of artistic talents, all imbued with the brilliant colours and light of Western Crete. The following are a selection.
Left: Anna Balantinaki, Church of the Virgin, Meskla; 2026, acrylic on canvas, 50 x 40 cm. Right: Maria Angelaki, Stavroula’s yard, Lower Meskla; 2026, tempera on canvas, 50 x 40 cm.Left: Nefeli Petra Kalogeraki, Foaming waves at Gonia, Kolymbari; 2026, acrylic on canvas, 50 x 40 cm. Right: John Houston, Trees beside the Keritis river, Drakiana, Platanias; 2026, oil on photographic paper, 70 x 50 cm.
Janet Liodaki “Jan Liodaki was born in Sheffield England [in 1953]. She studied Fine Art at High Wycombe College of Art and Cardiff College of Art. She entered three works for the annual exhibition at the Royal Academy London in the late 70s and two were accepted though not hung in the final stage.
Janet Liodaki, 1953-2026, Gifts of Dionysus, Summer, Platanias; 2009, oil on canvas, 100 x 70 cm. Collection of the “Olivepress” Museum of Contemporary Art of Chania at Dromonero.
“She visited Crete for the first time in 1972. This visit was followed by many others parallel to her studies in England. She moved permanently to Chania in 1975. She [found] tremendous inspiration in the Cretan landscape, the challenges found in the amazing variations in colour, rock strata, plant life and the drama of sudden seasonal changes.
“In 1978, she was invited by the British Council in Athens to take part in an exhibition supporting British artists living in Greece. This was her first exhibition. Many one-woman and group exhibitions followed both in Greece and England.
“Her work can be found in private homes and collections in Greece, England, Ireland, Austria, Italy, Germany, Russia, Scandinavia and U.S.A.” — agapisgallery.com
The dynamic outlook of the Cooperative Bank of Chania is demonstrated by its choice by the Eurosystem* to participate in the pilot programme for the development and trialling of the digital euro, according to a recent article in the Haniotika Nea. The Cretan bank will be one of 36 European banks and providers of payments services which will contribute to shaping the future of electronic financial transactions in Europe.
The headquarters of the Cooperative Bank of Chania on Eleftheriou Venizelou Street in Chania. Photo: Joehawkins, Wikipedia.
The choice was made after a call for expressions of interest which began in March, the assessment being based on technical, operational and organisational criteria set by the Eurosystem. The pilot programme is expected to start in the second half of 2027 and will last for 12 months. The Cooperative Bank of Chania will participate as a provider of payment services, in collaboration with the Bank of Greece and in accordance with an operational system determined by the Eurosystem.
The Bank’s participation on this enterprise confirms its strategic orientation towards innovation and the digital transformation of financial services, as well as its commitment to offering secure payment solutions to the customers and businesses which it serves. Commenting on the Bank’s participation in the digital euro, the Chairman of the Management Board Michalis Marakakis said:
“The choice of the Cooperative Bank of Chania to participate in the pilot programme for the digital euro is a special honour and recognition of our progress in the field of innovation and modern payments services. Our Bank is actively participating in the design of the new digital infrastructures of the European economy, with the aim of offering our clients secure, reliable and progressive financial solutions.
“Our Bank is actively participating in the design of the new digital infrastructures of the European economy,” says the Bank of Chania’s Chairman Michalis Marakakis
“The digital euro is expected to constitute an important step for the future of financial transactions and our participation in this process strengthens the Bank’s role as a modern and dynamic financial organisation with a strong presence in the local community and the Greek market.” (Haniotika Nea, 22/07/26)
*”The Eurosystem, which comprises the European Central Bank and the national central banks of the Member States whose currency is the euro, is the monetary authority of the euro area. We in the Eurosystem have as our primary objective the maintenance of price stability for the common good. Acting also as a leading financial authority, we aim to safeguard financial stability and promote European financial integration.” (www.ecb.europa.eu)
The Greek government has formally adopted the new Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism which was issued in draft form for consultation in May. The framework was adopted through a Joint Ministerial Decision signed by Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou and Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni on 7th August 2026.
Accord to a press release from the Ministry of the Environment and Energy: “The framework aims to establish strategic directions and medium-term targets at a national level for the spatial structure of the tourism sector, against criteria of economic, environmental and social viability and sustainability. Its aim is for touristic development to take place in a more organised and sustainable way, simultaneously protecting the natural environment, local communities and the special character of each area.” (ypen.gov.gr)
Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou and Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni sign the Joint Ministerial Decision implementing the new Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism on 7th August 2026.
An article published last week in Haniotika Nea summarises the main points of the framework:
New planning framework for tourism
New limits for touristic development are introduced in the government’s new Special Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism, which came into force on 7th August. They include changes to the planning rules for new hotels outside urban boundaries, stricter regulations for coastal zones and new directions for short-term rentals. The changes are of particular importance for Crete, where touristic activity is a basic feature of economic and spatial development.
The basic trends The new framework aims to combine touristic development with protection of the environment and quality of life, covering a gap which, it is claimed, existed in the country’s strategic planning. Among its aims are the dispersion of touristic activity, the development of other forms of tourism beyond the “sun and sea” model, extension of the tourist season and strengthening of high-quality tourist infrastructure.
It also envisages connecting tourism with other productive sectors, adaptation to climate change, improvement of transport, environmental and digital infrastructure and a reduction in the environmental footprint of tourist accommodation.
Five categories of region A key feature of the new Planning Framework is the classification of areas of the country according to the intensity of tourist activity. The basic criteria are the number of tourist beds in relation to the area and permanent population of each Municipal Unit. Thus, the following five categories have been created: — A) Areas of Controlled Development, — B) Developed Areas, — C) Developing Areas, — D) Early Development Areas, and — E) Special Development Support Areas. For island regions there is a second categorisation according to their area, from which, however, Crete and Evia are excluded.
The division into Categories A to E has immediate practical consequences, as it affects the type and size of tourist investments, the required building capacity for new hotels, but also the rules on protection of the natural environment.
In areas of high tourist development, i.e. in Category A, priority is given to the updating and modernising of existing accommodation, with stricter rules for new units. In developed areas, i.e. Category B, emphasis is retained on quality modernisation, but with milder restrictions, while in Categories C and D there are greater possibilities for development. Category E chiefly concerns special forms of tourism, such as mountain, medical, marine and diving.
New hotels built under the Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism will need to show sensitivity to the local environment. Despite its large size the Ikos Kissamos resort on the Gulf of Kissamos maintains a low profile, enhanced by the extensive planting of trees and shrubs. Photo: Ikosresorts.com.
Buildability requirements are changing One of the most important changes relates to the required land area for new hotels in areas outside urban limits: — In Category A areas, the minimum required plot area is now 16 stremmata, instead of the 8 and exceptionally 4 stremmata in force previously. — In Category B areas, the minimum is 12 stremmata. — In Categories C and D it is 8 stremmata. — In Category E the limit remains at 8 stremmata, with the possibility of a reduction to 4 stremmata if the investment fulfils certain planning, energy and environmental specifications. In areas A, B and C, the emphasis is mainly on higher-specification hotels of 3, 4 and 5 stars.
Protection of the coastal zone Modifications are also in force for the coastal zone. New configurations and constructions are forbidden in the first 25 metres from the shore line, with the exception of works for disabled access, access for ambulances and specific interventions which are provided for in the law on the foreshore and the beach. The framework also gives great weight to the carrying capacity of coastal areas and to the protection of the landscape.
Protected areas For areas within the National System of Protected Areas, additional directions are given for protection and milder touristic development. Among other things there are provisions for stricter building regulations, limits on the intensity of tourist activity and increased requirements for environmental assessment and documentation of carrying capacity, where this is necessary.
Short-term rentals The new Planning Framework provides for setting conditions on the availability of short-term rentals, including limits on the duration of such activity during the year and the designation of geographical areas where short-term rentals can be restricted or forbidden.
At the same time, it provides for limiting the development of new capacity, especially in areas which are under increased pressure or have particular geographical characteristics, including in newly built accommodation.
Existing permits There are transitional provisions for investments and plans which were already in the process of acquiring permits when the new framework was published. The new regulations are not imposed in specific cases where a permit had already been issued, or a complete file of application had been submitted before publication of the Planning Framework.
Among these are environmental approvals including Environmental Impact Studies, Special Planning Studies and building permits, and approvals for inclusion in development legislation or funding programmes. At the same time the Special Planning Framework functions as a binding and guidance framework for Local and Special Spatial Plans, as well as for Regional Zoning Plans, which will have to apply its directives in stages.
Tourism, Renewable Energy Sources and other activities The framework also aims to regulate the coexistence of tourism, with other activities such as industry, mining, Renewable Energy Sources and aquaculture, with the aim of reducing conflicts between different uses and protecting the environment and the landscape.
In relation to the plan which was put before Parliament in 2024, the final Planning bill retains its basic orientation, but includes more specific guidelines for the protection of islands and coastal areas, Natura areas and vulnerable landscapes. Greater emphasis is also given to carrying capacity, to restricting the dispersion of building outside urban boundaries and to the guidelines for short-term rentals. (Haniotika Nea, 12/08/26)
On the evening of Tuesday August 11th a group of friends from the Kolymbari area were gathered for drinks on the balcony of a house in Ravdoucha which has a commanding view of the bay of Kissamos and the Western horizon. The sun had set but there was still sufficient light to illuminate objects at a certain altitude, and Venus, the evening star, was shining brightly to the West.
The mysterious moving white cloud which appeared over Kissamos bay on the evening of Tuesday 11th August. Venus is on the left. Photo: Dr Ali Shariati.
Suddenly a strange phenomenon appeared in the sky – a puff of white cloud heading at a fair speed in a south-easterly direction and seeming to change shape as it moved. “Look, a UFO,” several people cried. “Nonsense, it must be an aircraft,” a more practical person suggested, and there followed a lively discussion on the possible explanations of the phenomenon. While no-one was seriously upholding the interpretation of a UFO, it did not have the normal appearance of an aircraft passing overhead.
It was suggested that the white cloud could be a kind of vapour trail preceding the aircraft and illuminated by the aircraft’s lights or the setting sun. However this seemed unlikely since aircraft at cruising speed do not have landing lights on and generally only show their red and green navigation lights; moreover there was no sign of the aircraft’s body. After a minute or so, as the shape was moving out of view to the East, the white cloud faded, to be replaced by a long cigar-shaped streak of light, and there was a final puff of white vapour before it disappeared from view.
The matter was forgotten as the party proceeded to attend the annual yiorti being held in the playground of the Old School in Ravdoucha – a lively affair with the usual accompaniment of Cretan dancing and Cretan music played at deafening volume. However, the following day, some minds returned to an investigation of the possible explanations for the phenomenon they had witnessed. What transpired was not as strange as a UFO sighting, but still a remarkable demonstration of the achievements of modern space technology. The sequence of events was thus:
At 15:58 GMT on Tuesday (18:58 in Kissamos) a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket consisting of two stages and carrying a pod containing 29 Starlink satellites was launched from Cape Canaveral in Florida, rapidly gaining height as it headed out across the Atlantic.
A SpaceX video of the rocket launch and subsequent trajectory can be seen on YouTube (link below).
Approximately two and half minutes after the launch, the first stage separated and started dropping back towards Earth, leaving the stage 2 rocket with its load of satellites to continue on its eastward path. By this time both objects were travelling at about 8,000 km/h and at an altitude of 65 km. Eight and a half minutes after lift-off the stage 1 rocket landed on a barge in the Atlantic off the coast of South Carolina, performing the amazing feat (to anyone witnessing it for the first time) of using reverse boosters to slow down and land upright on the platform.
In the meantime the stage 2 rocket, by now travelling at a speed of 25,000 km/h and at a height of 145 km, continued across the Atlantic, arriving over Kissamos some 2 hours later. (A photograph taken by one of the party was timestamped 20:58.) By this time the rocket, having presumably released its load of satellites to continue into low earth orbit, had reversed position and started a process of outgasssing of kerosene fuel, prior to burning up over the Indian Ocean. This explains the appearance of the white cloud ahead of the rocket’s body, which it had concealed from view.
Such operations, while now routine for SpaceX, can still produce a sense of awe in the casual observer.
On 7th August a contract was signed on the site of the Heraklion International Airport at Kastelli for the provision, installation and commissioning of the air navigation systems for the new airport.
The contract was signed between the concession company “International Airport of Heraklion, Crete” and a consortium consisting of the Spanish technology group Indra Sistemas S.A. and the Greek engineering consultancy ATESE S.A.
The signing took place in the presence of the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Christos Dimas, the Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Nikos Tachiaos, the General Secretary for Infrastructure Dimitris Anagnopoulos and the Director of the Civil Aviation Authority Giorgos Vagenas.
Among those present at the signing were the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Christos Dimas (third from left), the General Secretary for Infrastructure Dimitris Anagnopoulos (behind him in the centre), and the Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Nikos Tachiaos (right in yellow tabard). Photo: Ministry Press Office.
The contract constitutes a decisive step in the completion of the new international airport. Its duration is 27 months from the date of signature, while the total cost amounts to €105,219,189.40 including 24% VAT. Following the signing of the contract, those present made statements for the benefit of the Press as follows.
Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Mr Dimas stated: “A few months ago, in the presence of the Prime Minister, we had signed the Air Navigation Agreement and we then undertook to ensure that the tendering and signature of the agreement for the new airport at Kastelli would proceed as quickly as possible.
“Today we are signing this agreement, which will ensure that the new Heraklion airport will be equipped with up-to-date systems of communication, navigation, observation and management of air traffic, fully harmonised with the models of ICAO [International Civil Aviation Organization] EASA [European Aviation Safety Agency], SES and EUROCONTROL In this way we are making sure that the new airport will be fully operational on completion of the construction stage, which is already 76% finished.
“I want to emphasis that there has been a very great effort by everyone from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, the management of the Civil Aviation Authority and the management of the International Airport of Heraklion, Crete, as well as by MPs, the Regional Governor and mayors, to ensure coordination between us and to solve any issues arising as quickly as possible, so as to stick to the schedule. The aim remains the same – the airport at Kastelli will be in operation from November 2028.”
Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Mr Tachiaos added: “We all agree that Crete is the flagship of Greek tourism. Following the concession agreement for Chania airport it is clear that Crete and Heraklion deserve to have an airport worthy of its role. And this is exactly the airport which is being built today at Kastelli.
“The image which we see today exists because the government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis updated and certified the project’s specifications, at the same time proceeding with vital additional measures. A typical example is the tunnel on the access road, which was constructed at a particularly fast pace, and which was included in the plan by the present government.
“As the Minister said earlier, in 2028 Crete will have a modern international airport worthy of the island’s development potential and the needs of Heraklion.”
General Secretary for Infrastructure Mr Anagnopoulos said: “The signature of the contract for the air navigation systems is a decisive step in the completion and commercial readiness of the new Heraklion International Airport at Kastelli. They are critical pieces of infrastructure which are directly connected with the uninterrupted functioning of the airport and require a high level of technical expertise and strict observance of timetables. With today’s development, we are proceeding to another important milestone of a project which is of strategic importance for Crete and for the country’s developmental prospects as a whole.”
The signing of a €105 million contract for the supply of air navigation equipment is a significant milestone for the new airport, which is 76% completed and is due to open in November 2028. Photo: Ministry Press Office.
Director of the Civil Aviation Authority Mr Vagenas said: “Today’s signing of the contract signals the beginning of the installation of the Air Navigation Equipment, necessary for the operation of the new International Airport of Heraklion, Crete, at Kastelli. The overall configuration of this equipment is governed by the high safety standards imposed by international and European regulations.
“With a deadline for completion of 27 months we are fully ensuring the interests of the Government and the Civil Aviation Authority. At the same time we are sticking closely to the schedule for the start of operations of the new airport, a project of national importance and high priority for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority.”
Managing Director of Heraklion International Airport The Managing Director of the International Airport of Heraklion, Crete, Ltd, Nikos Anastasios, noted: “Today a significant milestone is achieved , which brings us nearer to the start of the airport’s operation. It is a project which we believe will support the development of Crete for the next generations. We are convinced in particular that our close cooperation with Indra-ATESE will permit the timely implementation and successful completion of the particularly demanding schedule which we have before us.
“I would like to express our warmest thanks to the Ministry and especially to the Minister for his continuous support, as well as to all the teams which have been working hard for the achievement of today’s milestone.”
Also present at the signing were the MPs for Heraklion Lefteris Avgenakis, Konstantinos Kefalogiannis and Maximos Senetakis, the Regional Governor of Crete Stavros Arnautakis, and the Mayor of Minoa Pediada Vasilis Gegkeroglou.
Technical requirements The Air Navigation equipment for the new international airport comprises systems for Control Tower communications and landing, navigation and surveillance systems, Tower and Approach Simulators and Runway Visual Range systems, and meteorological equipment.
Delivery of all the systems will include spares, software licences, tools, accessories and technical training manuals for both operational and technical personnel, as well as operations management services in accordance with the technical specifications and requirements of the operational systems. (Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport press release, 07/08/26)
On an August weekend when the meltemi is blowing it is not unusual for four or five deaths by drownings to take place around the coasts of Crete. They may be of not-so-young locals who have overestimated their capacities, or visitors who unwisely go swimming after a heavy lunch, or who choose to ignore red-flag warnings on supervised beaches. Seemingly safe-looking beaches can harbour hidden dangers from currents and undertows, which can carry people away or make it difficult for them to get out of the water.
After a couple of recent incidents, one of which ended in drowning and one which fortunately did not, the Chania Coastguard has issued some advice to swimmers, which was reported a week ago by the Haniotika Nea:
Coastguard issues a warning to beach users The Central Coastguard of Chania has issued a warning to bathers and visitors to strictly observe seaside safety measures, following incidents of citizens being put at risk or trapped by heavy waves, strong winds and local sea currents. A man got into difficulties at Koum Kapi on Friday (31st July), while a tourist was drowned in Heraklion.
In June, The Sun reported the death of a British teenager who had gone swimming off a beach in Chania despite red flag warnings. Photo: Thesun.co.uk
The Coastguard reminds beach users that a red flag signifies immediate and severe danger and therefore entry into the sea is forbidden. A yellow flag means that there are dangerous conditions and bathers should exercise increased care and obey the instructions of lifeguards.
If a bather is carried away by a strong current, they should not try to swim against it as they can quickly become exhausted. They are advised to keep a cool head and keep swimming parallel to the shore, until they leave the area of the current and can then aim for dry land.
The Coastguard warns that inflatable mattresses, floating toys and stand-up paddle boards (SUP) should not be used when the wind is offshore, as there is an immediate risk of being carried away. Special attention is also needed in the supervision of children and people with limited swimming capacity, who should be continually under the eye of their companions.
In the event of someone being in danger, citizens should immediately inform the Coastguard by phoning 108 or the European emergency number 112. At the same time, improvised rescue attempts without suitable equipment should be avoided, as they may put other people at risk.
There have been no reported drownings at Afrata beach, although it is unsupervised and has no red flag system. It is generally safe so long as one stays within the bay, and the older locals who regularly swim from the beach mostly do not go in when there are waves of any size.
A 45-year-old in difficulties On Thursday 30th July a 45-year-old Greek man got into difficulties while swimming at Koum Kapi beach in Chania. Following an alert to the Coastguard, a land patrol was dispatched to the spot, while a privately-owned boat with a Coastguard officer on board was able to locate the swimmer and transport him safely to the Venetian Harbour in Chania. The 45-year-old said that he was OK and did not want to be taken to hospital.
A death at Malia There was a tragic end to the search for a 20-year-old Italian tourist who was missing on the afternoon of Wednesday 29th July in the sea area of Malia, in Heraklion. Local media reported that the young man was found dead on Friday morning when his body was washed ashore at the point were he had gone swimming. The Coastguard was informed of the incident by the Police. (Haniotika Nea, 01/08/26)
At the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held at Busan in the Republic of Korea from 19th to 29th July 2026, the unanimous decision was taken to include Mount Olympus on the UNESCO List of World Heritage. A joint press release was issued on 26th July by the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Environment and Energy, which were together responsible for the successful application. An edited version of the press release follows; the subheadings are ours.
The wider area of Mount Olympus is inscribed as a Mixed Site on the UNESCO List of World Heritage
The Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Environment and Energy have hailed the unanimous decision taken by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, to inscribe “The wider area of Mount Olympus” on the UNESCO World Heritage List. … The mythical mountain’s inclusion on the List is one of the most important international distinctions in the field of cultural and natural heritage protection, recognising as it does the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of Mount Olympus, placing it among the world’s most iconic monuments, which require special protection and care for the benefit of humanity.
With an altitude of 2,918 m, Olympus is Greece’s highest mountain and a reservoir of biodiversity, harbouring 1,983 species – more than 25% of Greece’s flora. Photo: UNESCO.
Statement by the Culture Minister Commenting on the achievement, the Minister of Culture Lina Medoni stated: “The inscription of Mount Olympus on the UNESCO World Heritage list confirms Greece’s unfailing commitment to the protection, promotion and sustainable management of its cultural and natural heritage, in accordance with the World Heritage Convention. At the same time it strengthens the international profile of a place which is a timeless symbol of Greek culture, nature and universal heritage, highlighting the joint responsibility of the international community to preserve it for the benefit of present and future generations.
“The inscription uniquely embodies the indissoluble unity of our cultural and natural heritage. Olympus is a mountain which through the Homeric epics and ancient Greek literature brought Greek mythology and Greek culture to the whole world. It remains the eternal symbol of the residence of the Olympian Gods, and of a multi-dimensional and “dramatic” landscape, inspiring awe and respect and continuing to feed human thought, art, the sciences and global cultural creation.
“This eternal inspiration began with Homer, whose descriptions of Olympus include “manifold” for its numerous peaks, “long” for its impressive domination of the horizon, “snow-laden”, and “many-ridged” for its many ravines. The image of Olympus as captured by Homer’s poetic genius, nearly three millennia ago, remains unchanged to the present day, producing the same feeling of awe in the modern visitor.
“Warm congratulations to the Permanent Delegate of Greece to UNESCO Giorgos Koumoutsakos, for his steady and vital support throughout the duration of the process, to the officials of the Ministry of Environment and Energy and of the Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency (NECCA), as well as the Ministry of Culture’s Directorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities and Ephorate of Antiquities of Pieria. Their scientific training, devotion and excellent cooperation led to the success of the common goal of inscription, a momentous success which makes us all proud.”
The Greek team, headed by the Permanent Delegate of Greece to UNESCO Giorgos Koumoutsakos (centre), await the Committee’s decision at the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee at Busan in the Republic of Korea, July 2026.Photos: UNESCO.
Comments by the Minister of Environment The Minister of Environment and Energy Stavros Papastavros said: “The natural environment of Greece is a living and integral part of our identity, our history and our culture. Its protection and promotion lie at the heart of our government’s policy. Olympus, which was designated the first National Park of Greece in 1938, is a refuge for rare birds of prey, while it hosts 28% of the country’s plant groups – over 1900 species, 27 of which grow only on Olympus and nowhere else in the world – and an important population of fauna…
“The full dossier for the candidacy of Olympus for inscription in the UNESCO List of World Cultural and Natural Heritage was drawn up through the systematic collaboration of the Ministry of Environment and Energy, the Ministry of Culture and NECCA, successfully completing an effort which had begun in 2014. We are now proceeding from international recognition to specific works. In the immediate future, we are carrying out works on Olympus totalling more than €10 million, with the aim of protecting the natural environment, improving accessibility and sustainably developing the wider area.
“Warmest thanks and congratulations to the director of NECCA, Dr Dionysia Hatzilakou who oversaw the whole process, and to all those who contributed to this great national success. Special thanks are due to the Minister of Culture Lina Medoni, with whom we once again collaborated constructively to the benefit of our Homeland. And a special mention for the support of the Permanent Delegate of Greece to UNESCO Giorgos Koumoutsakos. We are continuing with planning and consistency, so as to protect and promote our country’s unique natural and cultural heritage for the present and future generations.”
The product of cross-sectoral cooperation The successful completion of the candidacy of Mount Olympus as a Mixed Heritage Site on the UNESCO World Heritage List is the result of close cooperation between the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Environment and Energy. The candidacy file was drawn up by the Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency (NECCA), which is supervised by the Ministry of Environment and Energy, and the Directorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities of the Ministry of Culture, deploying the expertise of the two bodies in the natural and cultural heritage fields. …
The inscription is of special importance as Olympus is included in the catalogue as a Mixed Site – one of the most demanding categories, acceptance in which requires simultaneous documentation of both their cultural and their natural values. Mixed sites are a comparatively small proportion of the inscriptions on the World Heritage List, and Mount Olympus is the only one which was presented for examination at the current session of the Committee. Including the earlier inscriptions of the Meteora and Mount Athos, Greece has three sites in the Mixed category of the List, while it now has 21 inscriptions altogether, which makes the latest achievement especially important for the country, strengthening its presence in the context of the Convention.
At the same time this inscription recognises the unique natural value of Mount Olympus as a place of exceptional importance for biodiversity. With an altitude of 2,918 m, because of its proximity to the Aegean Sea it possesses high altitudinal variation and sharp relief, topographic isolation and a historic role as a glacial refuge, harbouring 1,983 species, i.e. more than 25% of Greece’s flora. This floral richness and the exceptionally dense concentration of stenoendemic species (those which occur only on Olympus and nowhere else in the world) give it worldwide value as an “ark” of biodiversity. At the same time it is host to a rich population of fauna, which include many species of birds, mammals such as the brown bear, and the biggest Greek population of wild goats, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.
Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece, a long-standing symbol of Greek culture and global cultural heritage. As the mythical abode of the Twelve Olympian Gods it occupied a central position in the world view of the Ancient Greeks. Its influence, through the Homerian Epics, the Theogony of Hesiod and later literature, transcends the bounds of the ancient world.
Today it continues to inspire literature, the arts, philosophy, science and modern global cultural creation. The archaeological site of Dion at the foot of the mountain constitutes the most important material expression of the worship of the Olympian Gods, organically completing its outstanding cultural and natural landscape.
The 7th World Congress of Cretans, held in Chania from 21st to 27th July, brought together Cretans from all over the world to discuss the future pattern of their relationship with their native island, with national and local politicians, academics and people from the fields of business and culture. Starting with cultural events in the city of Chania, the Congress proper took place at the Orthodox Academy of Crete in Kolymbari from 23rd July. The event was covered in detail by the Haniotika Nea, which reported on the proceedings on three consecutive days. The following is a digest of those reports.
Preliminary events in Chania included a ceremonial raising of flags at the Firka Fortress and participation in the “Strata of Cretans everywhere” in the Venetian harbour.
Cretans of the world discuss tomorrow
The 7th World Congress of Cretans began at the Orthodox Academy of Crete in Kolymbari on Thursday 23rd July. The Congress, whose official theme was “Crete and the Cretans today and tomorrow”, brought together representatives of the Diaspora from the five continents, scientists, university staff, regional government officers and people from the fields of finance and culture. More than 80 speakers took part in the workshops, which lasted until 26th July.
The first day
The basic messages of the inaugural day revolved around the strength of global Hellenism, Crete’s relationship with the international community and the need for expatriate Cretans to be seen not merely as repositories of tradition but active collaborators in efforts for the development and international promotion of the island.
In his introductory speech, the President of the World Congress of Cretans Nikos Kastrinakis proposed as the kernel of the Congress the need to strengthen the essential relationship between Crete and the organisations of the Diaspora. His basic message was that the Diaspora cannot restrict itself solely to the maintenance of customs and historical memory.
Crete and the international community Deputy Minister for Migration and Asylum and MP for Chania Sevi Voloudaki focussed on the relationship of Crete with the international community and the Diaspora. The message she put forward was that Crete’s international presence is not confined to its touristic recognition.
Deputy Minister for Migration and Asylum Sevi Voloudaki emphasised the need need for maintaining the cultural identity of the younger generations of the Diaspora. Photo: NeaTV/YouTube.
Crete has an extensive human network abroad, which can function as a channel for finance, research, education, culture and public diplomacy, she said. More active links between expat organisations and universities, regional government, business and political bodies on the island could strengthen Crete’s international connections and create new opportunities for young people. At the same time there was a need for maintaining the cultural identity of the younger generations of the Diaspora, without this developing into a static and museum-like relationship with their land of origin.
Global Hellenism as a developmental force Former minister Anna Diamantopoulou referred to global Hellenism’s capacity to act as a force for development. Central to this, she said, is the need for the organised deployment of Greeks working in universities, businesses, research centres and international organisations. The basic message of her contribution was that the Diaspora is not only a source of emotional and historical ties, but a global repository of knowledge, experience and influence.
For Crete, she said, the exploitation of this dynamic can lead to the attraction of investments and research collaborations, the promotion of local products, the connection of young people with international networks and the strengthening of the island’s position in the new economic and technological environment. The common denominator was the need to create stable collaborative institutions, so that the Diaspora’s potential can be converted into specific initiatives and not remain at the level of good intentions.
Anna Diamantopoulou referred to global Hellenism’s capacity to act as a force for development. Photo: Anna Diamantopoulou/YouTube.
“Expatriate Hellenism is a meeting point” The leader of the Regional Council of Crete Sofia Malandraki referred to the special symbolism of the Congress being held in the Orthodox Academy, which she described as an emblematic space, from which important initiatives had been developed with the contribution of the late Metropolitan Eirinaios. She emphasised that the agenda of the Congress demonstrates the distinct anthropogeography of Cretan migration: people who left seeking better prospects and others who were drawn far from the island because of the conditions of their time.
As the gathering’s host, the Mayor of Platanias Giannis Malandrakis laid emphasis on the importance of the presence of Cretans from the five continents. “The Municipality of Platanias has great pleasure in receiving the 7th World Congress of Cretans at the Orthodox Academy,” he said, noting that the gathering takes place every three years and assumes special importance in today’s geopolitical circumstances.
For his part the president of the Chania Chamber of Commerce and Industry Antonis Rokakis emphasised that “the future of Crete merits a multi-dimensional ‘platform’ for networking and action which will connect researchers, enterprises, investors and young scientists.”
The second day
The second day of workshops at the 7th World Congress of Cretans in Kolymbari was devoted to “Climate crisis and the environment.” Representatives of the State, local government, the academic and research community, business and the Cretan Diaspora discussed the effects of climate change on the island, the need for improved prevention and civil protection, but also the possibility of implementing scientific knowledge and innovation.
Those taking part in the discussions included: – Heraklion MP and former Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Giannis Kefalogiannis; – Aris Koutroulis, Assistant Professor in the Hydrology and Hydraulic Engineering Laboratory at the Technical University of Crete; – Meteorologist and deputy mayor of Chania Manolis Lekkas; – Kostas Sinolakis, Professor at the Viterbi School of Engineering of the University of Southern California; – Efthymios Lekkas, Professor of Dynamic Tectonic Applied Geology and Disaster Management at the National Kapodistrian University of Athens; – Elia Psillakis, Professor in the School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering at the Technical University of Crete; and – Petros Lyberakis, researcher at Crete’s Museum of Natural History
The afternoon programme included a contribution by economist and former minister Nikos Christodoulakis on the developmental prospects of Crete, biodiversity and local plants, and a discussion with the mayors of Chania, Platanias, Apokoronas, Kissamos and Rethymnon on the role of local government.
Crete is a hot spot of the climate crisis according to Professor Efthymios Lekkas. Photo: Skai TV.
Desertification an urgent issue for Crete Crete is a hot spot of the climate crisis, according to Professor Efthymios Lekkas. On the sidelines of the Congress, he explained how Crete, like Malta and Southern Spain, could be considered climate crisis hot spots as they are between Africa which is on the verge of desertification and Europe which still retains its climate. He underlined the fact that the island is under threat from many sides and is subject to dramatic pressure from tourism.
Water as a common good A lecture by meteorologist Manolis Lekkas on water management proposed the free provision of water up to a certain quantity. “We receive 5.4 billion cubic metres of water [annually] on our island, of which 2 billion end up in the underground aquifers, an enormous amount. Our consumption is 372 million cu m annually, and we say that we don’t have enough water?” he asked.
The meteorologist made a series of suggestions for better water management, including: – the creation of a rainfall monitoring system; – protection of natural springs for future use in the bottled water industry; – a study for the construction of small retaining dams for enriching the aquifer, instead of “pharaonic” major dam constructions; – studies on the reuse of treated wastewater for agricultural use; – studies on the development of desalination methods.
Explaining his proposal for the free supply of water, Mr Lekkas said that it would contribute to “the quality of life of every citizen and of the family, business activity and agricultural use. Each ‘drop’ which exceeds these controlled and necessary degrees of consumption will be considered as waste and will be charged on a high-cost ‘logarithmic scale’. With this measure, each category of consumer (family, business, agricultural sector) will of its own accord take care to apply economising measures.”
President of the World Congress of Cretans Nikos Kastrinakis (far left) chairs a discussion. Photo: Rethemnos.gr.
Environmental issues Professor Ioannis Bourbakis of the National Technical University of Athens presented a series of problems arising from increases in temperature. “In the last few years we have had a temperature increase of around 1.1 degrees Celsius in Crete,” he said. “Think of the temperature we had two or three days ago, and imagine how uncomfortable it would be for us and for the tourists if we had it every day,” he said.
In her contribution, Professor Elia Psillakis spoke about microplastics and the research which her laboratory has been carrying out in Crete into the level of pollution in the island’s seas. Details of the research, which contains some highly significant data, will be published shortly.
In a session entitled “Environment, our natural heritage”, researcher Petros Lyberakis dealt with issues of environmental protection. The [EU’s] Tourist Development Framework Programme “creates more problems than it solves,” he said. “It ‘s all over the map and it’s hard find one’s way around it.” In particular he emphasised the issue of the absence of controls in the application of environmental law. “We need an organised mechanism for the guarding and supervision of the environment. The absence of controls causes severe environmental and social problems,” he said.
Time for critical decisions The Mayor of Apokoronas Haralambos Koukianakis had a clear message for the 7th World Congress of Cretans, which was in opposition to the industrial exploitation of Crete’s natural environment. “Which Crete do we want?” he asked. “That of tradition, ideals and values, or that of abandonment and desertification?”
Speaking in the session on climate crisis and the environment, he stressed that the energy transition cannot be effected without planning, scientific documentation, social consensus and respect for the capacity of the island’s resources. Crete cannot be treated as a field for the unrestricted installation of energy infrastructure, as it possesses a unique ecosystem, invaluable biodiversity, historic sites and cultural heritage, which cannot be allowed to be sacrificed in the name of unrestrained development.
The Mayor of Apokoronas gave special emphasis to the role that can be played by the Cretan Diaspora, issuing an invitation to expats to become the island’s voice in every corner of the world. “Crete does not belong only to those who live here today. It also belongs to all those who carry it in their hearts, wherever they are,” he said. He invited the Cretans of the Diaspora to contribute to the protection of Lefka Ori, of Psiloritis, of Mount Dikti, of the island’s villages and peaks which are in danger of being spoiled, warning that “If we stay silent today, tomorrow it may be too late.”
Climate crisis the central issue The contributions highlighted the dangers from extreme weather phenomena, wildfires and natural disasters, as well as the need for transition to a developmental model which will combine economic progress with sustainability and the protection of natural resources. Special emphasis was given in the discussions to the role of the research and academic institutions in Crete, as well as the need to cultivate environmental awareness in the younger generations through education.
Participating in round table discussions, the island’s mayors and deputy regional governors referred to the difficulties faced by local government as regards both the upgrading of infrastructure and ensuring the necessary resources for works of environmental protection, and adjustment to the climate crisis.
“Crete’s strength lies in the Diaspora” The Regional Governor of Crete Stavros Arnautakis referred to the decisive role played by Cretan expatriates, observing that “the true strength of our locality is reflected in our Diaspora.” He described Cretan expats as the most powerful source of the island’s universality and emphasised that the future of Crete must be fashioned through unity, assertiveness and steady collaboration. “Wherever you are, you brought with you Crete in its entirety: its untamed spirit, its generosity, solidarity and profound hospitality,” he said, noting that the expats have never been simple observers, but rather active participants in the progress of the communities which received them.
Mr Arnautakis emphasised that the Diaspora’s relationship with Crete is not sustained only by nostalgia, but constitutes an active and two-way bridge of creativity, with the emphasis on the Cretan identity of the younger generations. He also referred to the major development works on the island, such as the new International Airport at Kastelli, the Northern Road Axis from Kissamos to Sitia and the electrical interconnections with the Greek mainland. The plan for the Crete of 2030, he said, is for an island which is “dynamic, sustainable and smart”, which will take the lead in the green transition, digital governance and social cohesion.
The president of the World Congress of Cretans Nikos Kastrinakis thanked the Regional Governor for his support and presented him with an honorary plaque, observing that he had made a strong impact on the course of the Congress.
The third and fourth days
A tasting of wines from native Cretan grape varieties was conducted by sommelier Stella Liodaki. Photo: Fonimaleviziou.gr
The last two days of the Congress were devoted to the thematic units “Education and Culture” and “Inclusion, Social Responsibility and Volunteerism”. During the third day, discussion centred on the challenges faced by education, cultural heritage and the preservation of the Cretan identity. Special emphasis was given to the need for strengthening the relationship of the younger generations of expats with Cretan language, history and values, as well as to the creation of educational and cultural collaborations.
The sessions also examined the future of culture on the island and the need to preserve the authenticity of the Cretan tradition in the face of the pressures created by mass touristic development. Suggestions were presented for the preservation of aural history and cultural memory, while there were experiential workshops, presentations of Cretan products and traditional dance activities.
Delegates visited Lousakies in the Municipality of Kissamos, where they were informed about the history of the sirto dance. Young expats presented a musical programme with lyra, violin and lute. There was also an introduction to Cretan vineyards through a tasting conducted by the sommelier Stella Liodaki, in which wines from native Cretan grape varieties were sampled.
Volunteerism and social solidarity On Sunday 26th July, the delegates visited the Gonia Monastery in Kolymbari, where they were received by Amphilochios, the Metropolitan of Kissamos and Selino. The fourth and final day was focussed on social solidarity, public health, mental resilience, inclusion, the protection of vulnerable groups and volunteerism.
The president of the Hellenic Red Cross Antonios Avgerinos developed the theme of “Volunteerism – an antidote to violence”, citing the role of volunteerism in strengthening social cohesion and creating networks of solidarity.
The president of the children’s charity ToHamoyelo tou Pediou (The Smile of the Child) Kostas Giannopoulos presented details of the problems faced by children and adolescents in Greece, stressing the need for prevention, intervention and the active participation of the community in their protection. Also, information was presented about social initiatives and volunteering activities in Crete, as well as proposals for the upgrading of health, caring and rehabilitation services on the island.
The young delegates took part in a Cretan dance workshop which was organised by the Psiloritis Traditional Dance Association and led by Adam Boutzoukas.
At the closure of the Congress the president of the World Congress of Cretans Nikos Kastrinakis and the leader of the Regional Council of Crete Sofia Malandraki presented a pilot scheme for connecting Greek academics of the Diaspora with students at Greek universities, with the aim of transferring knowledge, providing guidance to the young and creating new academic collaborations. (Haniotika Nea, 24, 25, 27/07/26)
While hardly comparable with the enormous conflagrations being experienced in France and Spain, what was for Crete a major wildfire broke out in the south of the Nomos of Rethymnon on Wednesday, spreading along a front of 15 km, necessitating the evacuation of several villages and claiming the lives of two firemen. According to a report in Haniotika Nea, the fire broke out at midday on Wednesday 29th July near the village of Krya Vrisi and spread quickly as a result of strong winds, which made firefighting operations in the area extremely difficult.
The wildfire which started near the village of Kria Vrisi caused evacuations from both Agios Pavlos and Agia Galini. Image: Google Maps.
On Wednesday afternoon the fire was being tackled by 125 firemen and 27 vehicles along with six pedestrian teams from the Special Forest Operations Teams (EMODE) set up in 2021 for the prevention of forest fires and to provide immediate intervention for outbreaks in areas difficult of access. Firefighting helicopters and aircraft were also held in readiness, but were reported to be unusable because of the high winds. Tanker trucks and heavy equipment were also brought from the village of Agios Vasileios 25 km away.
Gale force winds hampered firefighting efforts in southern Rethymnon and were causing resurgences of fire on Thursday 30th July. Photo: ERT News/YouTube
Rescue from the sea Also on Wednesday, operations by the Coastguard were under way to rescue people trapped in the area of Agios Pavlos. By the evening 29 people had been safely removed by Coastguard vessels as well as private craft which took part in the operation. Both Coastguard patrol boats and private craft remained on standby in the area to provide further help if needed.
Coastguard patrol boats rescued people trapped on the shore in conditions of high winds and poor visibility. Image from Coastguard video.
Agia Galini evacuated At the same time the popular tourist resort of Agia Galini was evacuated, along with nine villages including Agios Pavlos. Hotels in the Rethymnon area were alerted to receive evacuees, while the Hoteliers’ Union of Rethymnon was recording the availability of accommodation to receive those displaced if necessary.
The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, the Tourism Ministry, the Region of Crete and the municipalities of Agios Vasileios and Faestos were cooperating in the safe transport of people out of the area.
The loss of two firemen Two firemen lost their lives while tackling the blaze, one 25 years old from the village of Fourfouras and one 58 years old from Gerakari. According to a local newspaper, the two had been trapped by the flames and had left their vehicle but had been unable to escape on foot.
The bodies of the two firemen were transported to Rethymnon Hospital, where there were also a citizen and a fireman with minor injuries from the fire. Condolences were received by the families and colleagues of the two firemen from the government, political leaders and regional government representatives.
The situation on Thursday According to a report in Rethemniotika Nea, on Thursday morning the situation had improved somewhat but conditions remained extremely difficult because of the gale force winds. People were being allowed to return to Agia Galini but not to the other villages evacuated, as fears of resurgences of fire remained high.
Early in the morning Fire Service crews had arrived from Athens and other areas to reinforce the firefighting effort, with conditions in the area described as “asphyxiating”. A total of 224 firefighters were now on the scene, along with 11 pedestrian teams of the 3rd, 19th and 6th EMODE, volunteers and 53 vehicles, while 2 helicopters were on standby, but were again unable to fly because of the high winds.
The Fire Risk Map for Thursday 30th July shows much of the country at high risk from fire. The map, published at 12:30 daily, shows the fire risk assessment for the following day. Source: Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection.
The whole of Crete remained on orange alert (very high risk of fire) on Thursday, while much of the rest of the country was on orange or yellow (high risk) alert, with people being reminded to take extra precautions to avoid activities which could lead to the outbreak of fire. (Haniotika Nea, Rethemniotika Nea, 30/07/26)
Traffic restrictions are in force due to roadworks on two sections of the VOAK in the Chania area. Long-term restrictions are in place on the sections between the Mournies and Vamvakopoulo interchanges from 12th July to 12th October, while there are continuing works on the Kissamos-Kolymbari section east of Nopigia.
