The city of Elefsina, in the West Attica region of Greece, has been named one of the European Capitals of Culture for 2023.
Elefsina is a city rich in history, with Roman emperors such as Marcus Aurelius and his son Commodus being initiated into its secret religion based on Greek mythology.
The city has since become an industrial centre, with factories, steel mills, refineries and ship yards attracting thousands of visitors looking to flee the poverty of rural Greece over the last century.
Local leaders hope to bring the city back to life with exhibitions, concerts and events to help boost its tourism.
According to The Star, Elefsina’s 2023 CEO Nana Spyropoulou said local leaders had faith a small but historically significant city can draw the international and European cultural spotlight.
“Our goal is to make use of Elefsina’s cultural wealth, and to leave a legacy for the future,” she said.
A number of derelict buildings have already been repurposed, including a former olive oil mill which is becoming an archaeological museum.
The city’s Mayor, Argiris Economou, said Elefsina has gained use of infrastructure it never had before.
“This is a great legacy and an opportunity to upgrade the city,” Economou said.
Source: The Star
