Heraklion coastal protection project approved and new Catholic Bishop appointed

A major coastal protection project for the Old Power Station and Dermata Bay in Heraklion has been integrated into the ‘Crete 2021-2027’ program. The project, with a total budget of €5,716,100, is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. The initiative aims to combat coastal erosion and undermining in the area, specifically targeting the zone near the Natural History Museum of Crete.

The Municipality of Heraklion is the primary beneficiary, with the Ephorates of Maritime Antiquities and Heraklion Antiquities serving as co-beneficiaries. Regional Governor Stavros Arnaoutakis emphasized that protecting the island's coastline against climate change and extreme weather is a top priority.

In religious news, Archbishop Georgios Altouvas has been appointed by Pope Leo XIV as the Catholic Bishop of Syros, Milos, and Santorini, as well as the Apostolic Administrator of Crete. He will transition from his current roles in Corfu, Zakynthos, Cephalonia, and Thessaloniki. He is expected to assume his new duties within two months.