Zagori: Greece's Newest UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape

Zagori, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as the 19th Greek monument, marks Greece's first cultural property listed as a cultural landscape. The effort to nominate Zagori began in 2014 and gained momentum in September 2019 under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

The unveiling of the plaque for Zagori's inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List was a momentous occasion attended by dignitaries, including the President of the Parliament, Konstantinos Tasoulas, and Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni. This recognition highlights Zagori's architectural significance and its unique blend of human and natural elements.

The nomination dossier, prepared by the Ministry of Culture, the Region of Epirus, and the Municipality of Zagori, showcased the area's architectural heritage and authenticity. It was a product of collaborative efforts involving various disciplines, from archaeology to environmental science.

Minister Mendoni emphasized the need for sustainable development in Zagori, ensuring its preservation for future generations. She underscored the importance of community involvement and a strategic plan to maintain Zagori's unique character.

Zagori's historical prosperity, shaped by trade and economic mobility, is reflected in its well-preserved settlements, adorned with churches, mansions, and schools. The region's natural beauty, including forests, rivers, and geomorphological formations, adds to its allure.

Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, the submission of the nomination dossier in January 2021 and subsequent evaluation by UNESCO's advisory bodies culminated in Zagori's inscription as a Cultural Landscape on the World Heritage List during the 45th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Riyadh on September 19, 2023.

Zagori's inscription represents a significant achievement for Greece, highlighting the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature in this remarkable cultural landscape.

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