Sofulu silk showcased at Lyon Silk Fair 2025

Representing the region at the fair, Deputy Regional Governor for Economy, Culture, and Volunteering of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Fani Baharidou, described Sofulu’s participation as “an important moment for gaining the international recognition our region deserves.” Baharidou emphasized that silk is not merely a product but “a living history and an economic and cultural force,” stressing the need for this heritage to reclaim its rightful place on the global stage.

Regional Governor Hristodoulos Topsidis stated that reviving sericulture and promoting Sofulu internationally remain key priorities. As part of these efforts, the process for obtaining a geographical indication (GI) designation for Evros silk has begun, while discussions continue regarding the certification of silkworms and their cocoons. In addition, work is underway on a digital museum project titled “A Silk City on the Silk Road,” which aims to present Sofulu’s cultural and economic impact through modern platforms.

At the fair, the exhibition “From Sofulu to Lyon”, prepared by the Silk Friends Association Hrysallida, attracted thousands of visitors, including representatives of Europe’s silk industry, young designers, and cultural institutions. The exhibition offered an in-depth look at the region’s rich silk-making heritage.