Culture Ministry certifies archaeological museums of Bulustra and Dedeağaç

The certification process was carried out under Law 4858/2021, which aims to improve the quality and operation of public museums across the country. The relevant applications were submitted by the Ephorates of Antiquities of İskeçe (Xanthi) and Meriç (Evros).

According to the ministry, the evaluation process began in 2024 with on-site inspections by central ministry teams and continued with tailored upgrade programs focused on infrastructure, operational efficiency, visitor services, and community engagement. Particular emphasis was placed on building legality, energy efficiency, fire safety, and accessibility for all visitors.

The Archaeological Museum of Bulustra (Avdira), located in İskeçe (Xanthi), has been operating since 2000 and houses findings from excavations in the ancient city associated with philosophers such as Democritus and Protagoras. Its exhibits are organized thematically around public and private life, burial customs, and religion in antiquity.

The Archaeological Museum of Dedeağaç (Alexandroupoli), inaugurated in 2022, is among the most modern museums in Greece. Its permanent exhibition includes more than 1,000 artifacts spanning prehistoric to Roman times, supported by multimedia and interactive digital applications. The facility is fully accessible to people with disabilities.

The certification program, which now covers more than 200 public museums, is mandatory and implemented through a centralized digital system. Initially launched on a pilot basis in 2021, the initiative seeks to align Greek museums with international standards of museum practice.

Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said the certification forms part of a broader effort to modernize museums and strengthen their role as cultural and educational institutions.

She added that the goal is to create a stable, unified framework for museum operations, improving service quality, sustainability, and their integration into local communities.

Source:ERT