Project to enhance tourist appeal of Monemvasia divides locals

·

The historical town of Monemvasia in Laconia, Greece, is set to receive a million euro makeover, including a new cable car, museum and lighting system.

According to an announcement by the Greek Culture Ministry, the project aims to make the town more accessible, enrich its cultural footprint and enhance the tourist appeal of Monemvasia.

Though many are concerned it will alter the area’s character and increase its touristification. The Association of Friends of Monemvasia has asked Laconia’s MPs and Deputy Environment Minister Giorgos Amyras to intervene.

Yiannis Ritsos house in Monemvasia. Photo source: Ministry of Culture.

So far it is confirmed that the project will include the following updates:

  • The purchase, the installation and operation of a cable car that will allow unobstructed access to Monemvasia’s Ano Poli (upper town) as well as the creation of accessibility-friendly routes, connecting the upper town’s cultural interest spots.
  • The design and installation of a lighting system that will highlight the Monemvasia Rock during night time and also improve safety and visibility.
  • The transformation of Yiannis Ritsos’ residence into a contemporary museum, highlighting the poet’s work and life alongside the area’s history and evolution through time.
Monemvasia Castle, Peloponnese. Red indicates the cable car area and yellow indicates the trail area. Photo
source: Ministry of Culture.

While a contract was signed in January and is backed by the local municipality, the Peloponnese Region, the Culture Ministry and the Parnonas Development Agency, it must first be approved by the Central Archaeological Council to move ahead.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

Greek Australians among top real estate young guns of 2025

A number of young Greek Australians have cemented their place among the best in Sydney and NSW’s real estate scene.

Lachlan Arghyros balances surfing dreams and school through distance education

Fifteen-year-old Lachlan Arghyros from Kingscliff, NSW, is making waves both in and out of the water as he chases a surfing career.

You May Also Like

A child’s vision of hope: Helene Kalimniou’s poignant Christmas artwork

11-year-old Helene Kalimniou's artwork was titled 'Christmas in the Middle East' and had a deep message behind it.

Greece embraces tradition in Clean Monday festivities

On March 3, Greece celebrated Clean Monday, known locally as 'Kathara Deftera,' marking the onset of Lent with nationwide festivities.

Andrew Yiasemides sells petrol station at Brighton-Le-Sands after 46 years

Andrew Yiasemides has closed the doors of his petrol station on Bay Street at Brighton-Le-Sands for the last time after 46 years at the helm.