On Sunday, October 19, 2024, a successful «Culture & Innovation Workshop» was held in Kythira (Fratsios Conference Center) on the topic of creating a cultural route centered on the olive tree.
The workshop was organized by the cultural organization «Dromi tis Elia» (Roads of the Olive Tree) in collaboration with local agencies, as part of the Local CLLD/LEADER Program 2014-2020, «Culture and Environment Afloat.» The Program included working meetings and dialogue with representatives of points of interest along the route, which were selected after on-site research, as well as talks and presentations on the long history and presence of the olive tree in Kythira. Partners of the Organization presented the results of the research, the sustainability potential of the route through olive tourism, and innovative practices.
The interest and participation of the local community was impressive, as many representatives of local organizations, entrepreneurs, veteran and new producers of traditional products, and other professionals attended the proceedings with interest. Those present actively participated in the dialogue, exchanging views and experiences on the protection and promotion of the cultural heritage of the olive tree, its products, and the unique natural and cultural wealth of the island. The dialogue highlighted a common desire for sustainable development through responsible alternative tourism based on the use of local resources and the protection of traditions that shape the identity of the place.
Among others, the workshop was attended by the presidents of the Potamos and Livadi olive oil cooperatives, Mr. Panagiotis Souris and Mr. N. Stathis, the owners of olive oil mills, Mr. Gavrilis Charos and Mr. Giannis Lourantos, Mr. Giannis Protopsaltis, beekeeper and representative of the Kythira Foundation for Culture and Development (KIPA), Mr. Pavlos Koronaios, owner of the Karava bakery (former oil mill), Ms. Elena Mageirou, owner of the ‘Porfyrousa’ farm, Mr. Vrettos Sklavos ecotour guide, nature activity organizer and tours, Ms. Myrto Nikologianni, hotel businesses/alternative tourism activities, Mr. Kostas Pavlakis and Ms. Eleni Protopsalti, owners of the model cultural center ‘Fava to Liotriví,’ etc.
The participation of Ms. Stavroula Fatsa, Director of the Kythira Gymnasium and distinguished researcher of the island's flora and microflora, was significant, whose contribution was invaluable to the success of the Culture & Innovation Workshop.
