The first phase of a study for the renovation and development of St Nicholas Church in Splantzia Square in Chania has recently been completed. The work is proceeding on schedule, and while the first phase comprised a full documentation of the church in its current state, the second phase will include the proposal of definitive technical solutions.
Continue readingPlans for the restoration of Gramvousa Fortress
As from 22nd June the first phase has been under way of a study for the restoration of Gramvousa Fortress, the ruined Venetian monument which stands on Gramvousa Island opposite one of Crete’s most famous attractions, the Balos lagoon. The aim of the study, as described in its title, is the analysis and documentation of the whole and “the incorporation of the monument into the natural, historical and cultural landscape of western Crete”.
Continue readingGreek study shows differing patterns in international tourism
Attracting foreign tourists is a competitive business. While overseas travel is on the rise and seemingly endless tides of visitors descend every year on the world’s most popular destinations, countries such as Greece for whom tourism is an important source of income are engaged in a constant effort to maximise their competitive advantage and maintain market share. Publicity campaigns by national and local government bodies, delegations to overseas travel fairs and sponsorship of familiarisation visits for foreign tour operators all form part of the effort. At the same time analysis of visitors’ tastes and special requirements can help in diversifying the tourist offering and spreading more broadly the flood of visitors to certain areas during the summer season.
Continue readingTraffic restrictions on the VOAK
Major traffic restrictions have started this week, from Sunday 12th July, due to roadworks on two sections of the VOAK. Long-term restrictions are in place on the sections between the Mournies and Vamvakopoulo interchanges from 12th July to 12th October, while there are works east of Nopigia on the Kissamos-Kolymbari section for 6 nights, also from 12th July.
Continue readingIndian tour operators hosted in Chania
With the Indian tourist market undergoing rapid development, Chania is one of the destinations which are attracting Indian visitors. Direct flights to Crete from India are expected with the completion of the new Heraklion International Airport, which is partly funded by the Indian-controlled GMR Airports Greece SMSA.
Continue readingChania Chamber Music Festival tickets now available online
Tickets for the 14th Chania Chamber Music Festival are now available online. The main website at www.chambermusicfestival.gr has not so far been updated and at the time of posting still carries information about last year’s Festival; however, details of the full programme can be seen on the Ticket Services website at www.ticketservices.gr, where there is also a link for purchasing tickets.
Continue readingSummer timetable for Chania’s electric bus service now in force
The Urban KTEL company which runs Chania’s electric bus service between the peripheral car parks at Kladissos and Markopoulou has now published the service’s summer timetable, which will be in force from 6th July to 15th September. The times of the services are as follows:
Continue readingConference emphasises the need for protecting religious monuments
The need for promoting and protecting religious sites as places for the preservation of culture was emphasised at the 2nd Conference of the Religious Fundamentalism Monitor which opened at the Orthodox Academy of Crete in Kolymbari on 2nd July. The two-day conference was sponsored by the Metropolis of Alexandroupolis, Traianoupolis and Samothrace, by the General Secretary for Religions of the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sport, and the Orthodox Academy of Crete.
Continue readingFocus on deaths by drowning in Greece
Swimming is one of the most beneficial forms of exercise, as it improves cardiorespiratory functioning, protects the joints, helps to reduce anxiety and improves the quality of sleep. However, drowning can happen quickly, often within only 20 to 60 seconds. For this reason, information, prevention and the observance of basic safety rules are prerequisites for our safe enjoyment of the benefits of swimming.
Continue readingMore breakwaters planned at Kolymbari beach
Old-timers in Kolymbari remember when there was a beach in front of the restaurants on the sea front. Then in the year 2000 the modern harbour was built with EU funds and changed the course of the sea currents, with the result that the beach was completely eroded and only rocks were left up against the sea wall.
Continue reading