Ο former Vice-Regional Governor of the Attica Islands Takis Hadjiperos made a visit to the Antikythera, the outlying island where the monument in honor of the heroic symbiotic mops. This monument is dedicated to the sponge divers who accidentally discovered 123 years ago the famous Antikythera shipwreck, which contained priceless archaeological treasures, including the unique Antikythera Mechanism.
In his Facebook post, the former Deputy Governor said: «123 years ago, Syrian sponge divers accidentally discovered an ancient shipwreck at a depth of 56 meters outside the harbor of the Antikythera River, which, apart from the artistic treasures (the famous Antikythera teenager) hidden in its holds, also hid the unique MECHANISM of Antikythera, the first computer, THE CITY OF TECHNOLOGY». Highlighting the bravery and selflessness of these people, he said. «are a timeless example to be emulated for their bravery, integrity, selflessness and contribution to their country, science and culture».
The monument, which was erected after the former Deputy Governor's recommendation to the Regional Administration, was placed at the port of the island. «JOY AND SATISFACTION INDESCRIBABLE», he noted, expressing his gratitude to the sculptor Nikolitsa Leontis and all those who contributed to the completion of the project.
In another post, the former Deputy Governor shared Details on the selection procedure of the plan for the monument: «From the remnants of the creation of the monument to the Symi spongers: on the left, the selected proposal, placed in its place, and on the bottom right, the exhibition of the model among the 16 artistic proposals in the periphery. From the left, the model of the design presented by the Region of the Islands 5 years ago. A WORK OF GRATITUDE WITH MUCH LOVE AND POSITIVE ACTION OF GLOBAL SCOPE».». He stressed that this monument leaves no room for «MISERY, INTOLERANCE AND JEALOUSY», and stressed the need for proper promotion of the project.
However, the visit to the Antikythera was accompanied by mixed feelings. The former Deputy Governor expressed his satisfaction for the placement of the monument and the start of work for the construction of the Climate Change Observatory on the island, which, he said, will make Antikythera an important reference point for science. At the same time, however, he expressed bitterness for the «ingratitude» he has faced, leaving hints, writing: «But there is also bitterness for ingratitude. Hence the mixed feelings.».
This visit underlines the importance of preserving historical memory and the recognition of heroic deeds, while at the same time opening new horizons for scientific research and the promotion of the historic island.
