A donation contract for the implementation of the project “Performing the Fixing and Fire Protection of the Ouranoupolis Tower Complex” was signed by Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni and its President “Hellenic Gold SA“, Christos Balaskas, in the presence of Mayor Aristotle Stelios Valianos.
The project includes the implementation of the restoration work of its static adequacy Towerthe fire protection of the tower and its accompanying buildings, as well as interventions in the surrounding area. In particular, stones are provided, wood repairs, Arsana work, implementation of active fire protection measures and configuration of the access space.
The donation of Hellenic Gold SA rises In the amount of 1,300,000 euros and covers the entire budget of the project. The project will be implemented by the Ephorate of Antiquities of Halkidiki and Mount Athos, while the contract will be implemented under the supervision of the competent departments of the Ministry of Culture.
Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said: “The Tower of Profession is the most important surviving Byzantine and post -Byzantine complex of the area, which narrates the history of Ouranoupolis, over the centuries. Its existence is already documented in 1344, and it is assumed to be erected in the 11th or 12th century. It was part of the “Prophets” shareholder of the Holy Monastery of Vatopedi, which included agricultural and port infrastructure, focusing on the Tower-Tower, Barbaka (fortified enclosure) and Arsana (port shelter). The Ministry of Culture through the Ephorate of Antiquities of Halkidiki and Mount Athos matured the studies of maintenance and restoration of the complex. Our main policy at the Ministry of Culture is the development of synergies and partnerships with the private sector and local government for the benefit of the monument of each region. Investing in culture we strengthen local communities and regional economies. My deep belief is that culture is a public social good but also a distinct economic sector. It is directly intertwined with social cohesion, prosperity, growth, the economy. Thanks to the president of “Hellenic Gold SA” Christos Balaska, for the acceptance of our request, which today brings us all together to Ouranoupolis. “
The President of Hellenic Gold SA, Christos Balaskas, said: “Our commitment to sustainable development and value for the communities of the Municipality of Aristotle is being implemented through a multilevel approach, which includes targeted social investments with a substantial impact on the local community and its future prospects. In this context, the strengthening and promotion of the cultural heritage could not maintain a central position in the $ 80 million social investment program we are planning for the region. Among them, the restoration of the Tower of Ouranoupolis is an action that stands out by filling us with pride and expressing our respect for the history and identity of the area. “
Aristotle Mayor Stelios Valianos said: “Finding resources for the restoration of the Tower of Offer in Ouranoupolis comes as a result of the steady claim of our municipal authority for compensatory benefits to the local community from mining activity. I am glad to see the project being implemented and an iconic landmark of Ouranoupolis, the tower that stands for the “guard” of the Gate to Mount Athos, to protect and emerge as it deserves. In addition, I am sure that the Ministry of Culture will not miss out on exploiting a significant portion of resources saved, with the costing of the project by “Greek Gold”, to support other efforts to highlight our region’s cultural stock! “
The complex has a rich historical sequel. Until 1922 the tower served as a residence of the Metohi manager. In 1924 temporary refugee families from Asia Minor settled in him. In 1928 the Sydney and Joyce Loch couple settled there with the community permission, which offered a remarkable humanitarian work to the locals. Today, Barbakas operates as an exhibition space, hosting on the ground floor of antiquities from pre -Christian and Christian Halkidiki, while its upper floor is dedicated to the refugees of Ouranoupolis and the Loch couple.
At the event they attended The MP Halkidiki Ioannis George, the Vice -Mayor Halkidiki painter Catherine and Louw Smith, Executive Vice President for Greece, Eldorado Gold.