Feb 12 • 10:53 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece Naftemporiki

Arta: The restoration of the Church of the Virgin Mary of Comfort is being organized

The Greek Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Region of Epirus and the municipality of Arta, is initiating the restoration of the historically significant Church of the Virgin Mary of Comfort.

The Ministry of Culture in Greece, along with the Epirus Region and the municipality of Arta, has announced plans for the restoration of the Church of the Virgin Mary of Comfort, a monument of major historical and archaeological significance. This development follows the completion of restoration studies, which included architectural, structural, and electromechanical assessments, and received a positive notice from the Central Archaeological Council. The restoration work will be carried out by the Directorate for the Restoration of Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Monuments, part of the Ministry of Culture, and will be included in the Municipality's Sustainable Urban Development program, funded by the Regional Operational Program 'Epirus' under the NSRF 2021-2027.

Culture Minister Lina Mendoni emphasized the bishop's historical significance, stating that the Church of the Virgin Mary of Comfort, dedicated to the Annunciation of the Theotokos, is a prominent Byzantine monument that holds considerable importance in art history. It is a site that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region, and its restoration is vital not only for preserving the historical structure but also for enhancing cultural tourism in Arta. The project aligns with broader efforts to revitalize and preserve Greece's architectural heritage, showcasing the government's commitment to safeguarding important cultural landmarks.

The funding sourced from the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) highlights the collaborative efforts to promote sustainable development and heritage conservation in the region. As these restoration works commence, they are expected to generate local interest and potentially boost economic activity through increased visitor engagement in Arta, providing a significant opportunity for both cultural enrichment and economic revitalization in the area.

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