New Board of Sarakatsani Cultural Association meets Yassıköy Mayor to discuss heritage preservation

The newly elected board of the Thrace Sarakatsani Cultural Association paid an official visit to Caner Imam on May 7, 2026, marking the beginning of the association’s new term and reinforcing cooperation with the Municipality of Yassıköy.

The meeting focused on issues related to the preservation and promotion of the cultural heritage of the Sarakatsani community in the region, with particular emphasis on planned restoration and improvement works at the traditional Sarakatsani settlement located at the Glykoneri junction within the administrative boundaries of the municipality.

Focus on Preserving Traditional Heritage
Representatives of the Thrace Sarakatsani Cultural Association briefed the mayor on interventions already carried out at the settlement, as well as future needs aimed at preserving the site’s traditional architectural identity while improving its overall functionality and accessibility.

The Sarakatsani settlement is regarded as an important cultural landmark reflecting the nomadic pastoral traditions and historical heritage of the Sarakatsani people in the wider Thrace region.

Municipality Signals Support for Cooperation
During the discussions, Caner Imam expressed his positive stance toward continued collaboration with the association and acknowledged the cultural significance of the settlement for the local community and regional heritage.

According to participants, the meeting took place in a particularly constructive atmosphere, with both sides expressing a shared commitment to implementing initiatives that will further promote and develop the traditional Sarakatsani settlement.

The planned cooperation is expected to contribute not only to cultural preservation efforts but also to the broader visibility of local heritage and cultural tourism in the region.