On June 16, the 30 winners of the European cultural heritage awards were honoured in Athens, Greece.
The ceremony for the European cultural heritage awards took place in the Odeion of Herodes Atticus, at the foot of Acropolis. European Commissioner for Education and Culture, Androula Vassiliou said during the ceremony. “Tonight we are celebrating exceptional examples of conservation, research, dedicated service, education, training and awareness-raising. This year the choice was particularly challenging. The outstanding quality and diversity of the winning projects highlight the extraordinary skills and passion which epitomize Europe’s cultural heritage sector – a sector we must support and protect for future generations. Heritage is not about 'glorifying' our past. It is a huge asset for our present and future; it is one of the main factors that makes Europe the world's top tourist destination, contributing significantly to our economy and helping to create jobs in our cities and regions.”
The EU Prize for cultural heritage were organised by the Europa Nostra, a European network dedicated to safeguard Europe’s cultural heritage. Europa Nostra’s President, Plácido Domingo, added. “Athens, the cradle of Europe’s democracy, is the perfect setting in which to pay tribute not only to the winners of our awards, but also to all the citizens and communities that are strongly engaged in safeguarding our cultural and natural heritage. There is no place more fitting for a celebration of the European Year of Citizens and Europa Nostra’s 50th anniversary than Athens. Tonight, at the Odeion of Herodes Atticus, we shall also enjoy an evocative performance by renowned artists, based on the rich musical and literary legacy of Greece. Our entire evening in Athens will be a true ode to the Europe of Culture.”
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