Hoplite

After  a year of its establishment the “Union of Medieval Castles” have already 48 members, prefectures, municipalities and communities from all over Greece enlisted. Additionally they put forward a proposal to establish June 24th as the “Day of Castles” for further promotion of the medieval monuments of Greece. “We submit our proposal for the June 24 to be officially introduce as the Day of Castles”, says the director of the Union, Mr Nick Delivorias. Recipients of the proposal are the relevant departments of the Ministry of Culture and UNESCO, and requested the promotion and creative use of all of these fine buildings and wall defenses, which can be found in many parts of Greece.

The medieval castle is the very poor family member in relation to ancient monuments. Not all of course share this poor relationship as some have become attached and meet grand interest from the public and the state. But many are missing the “care” from the general public and the official state. It seems that the medieval castles do not get into our national DNA as integral parts of our historic landscape, such as an ancient temple.

The initiative for the establishment of the Union has been taken by the Medieval Studies Institute, established in 2005 by executives of local authorities focused on Mystra. In one year the Union has achieved a good communication and cooperation with the competent services of the Ministry of Culture and the prospect for expanding the number of members is positive.

Unfortunately, this year, the objective of designating June 24 as the Day of Castles has not meet with success but is believed that can be postponed for 2010. We remain, however, to familiarize the public with the architectural heritage of medieval times, a piece of Greek history, rather degraded or fragmentary knowledge.

Also the fate of Greek medieval castles can now relay further to the Union from their maintenance. It is important that the Union, which is legally a non-profit organization, has as members prefectures and municipalities, as an intermediary between wealthy citizens and the central government which can support restoration projects.

The visits of castles, one main demand of the Day of Castles, increasing the tourist potential of each region and promotes the development of a tourism theme. Moreover, there are programs and networks for castles and fortresses across Europe to exchange experience and cultivation of scientific dialogue.

Source: Kathimerini, 24/06/09

Hoplite Editorial :
Email this author | All posts by Hoplite Editorial