During the 1st Blue Heritage Summit in Thessaloniki, Christos Tsentemeidis, the President of the National Exhibition Agency, elaborated on a visionary project aimed at transforming the Thessaloniki International Fair (DETH) into a multifunctional urban park rather than simply an exhibition space. This initiative will encompass various activities, including exhibitions, conferences, recreational areas, and cultural spaces, focusing on the Momus Museum as a cultural core. By redefining this space, the aim is to attract visitors throughout the entire year, enhancing both cultural engagement and economic activity in the region.

Currently, the DETH area is heavily built up, with about 70% occupied by 37 structures, including 17 exhibition buildings. In contrast, the redevelopment plan envisions that following the transformation, 70% of the space will be dedicated to a 120-acre Metropolitan Park, drastically reducing the number of buildings to only seven. This significant shift emphasizes the need for urban green spaces, aiming to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike while promoting cultural and economic revitalization in Thessaloniki.

The project signifies a substantial change in how urban spaces are utilized, focusing on integration of nature within the city’s fabric, and reflects broader trends in urban planning that prioritize sustainability and community engagement. It is poised to serve as a model for future development across Greece, demonstrating the potential of innovative urban strategies to foster public interest and economic growth, while highlighting the importance of cultural heritage in modern city life.