Crete region invests €80 million in cultural projects

The Region of Crete announced that it is funding cultural initiatives worth more than €80 million across the island. Governor Stavros Arnaoutakis made the remarks at the opening of the exhibition “Heraklion – 40 centuries of history” displayed in the iconic Pantokrator Gate, which together with the Sambiana Gate is now open to the public.

The projects are implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and local municipalities. Key works include the €10 million contract for the restoration of the Neoria in Heraklion, ongoing repairs of the Holy Metropolitan Church of Saint Mina, and the refurbishment of Pantokrator Gate. The Gate renovation, budgeted at €429,737, is financed by the “Crete 2021‑2027” program and carried out by the Heraklion Antiquities Service, featuring archaeological documentation, digital applications and modern audiovisual displays.

Arnaoutakis thanked Culture Minister Lina Mendon for her continued support, describing culture as a driver of sustainable development, social cohesion and quality of life for citizens.