Eastern Macedonia and Thrace launches consultation on new cultural strategy

The initiative was officially introduced on July 3 during a consultation meeting held in Gümülcine, attended by Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis, local government representatives, cultural organizations, chambers of commerce and other stakeholders from across the region.

Addressing participants, Topsidis described Eastern Macedonia and Thrace as a region with a rich and diverse cultural identity, encompassing archaeological sites, Byzantine monuments, traditions, music, dance, local gastronomy, arts and contemporary cultural expression.

He said the region's cultural wealth should not only be preserved but also systematically documented, promoted and utilized as a driver of economic development, tourism, social cohesion and international outreach.

According to regional authorities, the strategy will focus on creating a comprehensive inventory of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, highlighting underrepresented cultural assets, developing cultural routes, strengthening links between culture, tourism and entrepreneurship, and making better use of national and European funding opportunities.

Deputy Regional Governor for Finance, Culture and Volunteering Fani Bacharidou said the strategy is based on a long-term vision with measurable objectives and emphasized the importance of integrating culture with tourism, education, innovation, digital transformation, social inclusion and business development.

The consultation process will continue with similar meetings across all regional units of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, allowing cultural institutions, local communities and other stakeholders to contribute to shaping the region's future cultural policy.