Sounio, Greece – On a night infused with history and illuminated by the glow of a revitalized ancient wonder, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis inaugurated the newly reimagined lighting system at the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio.
“We don’t just admire the past of this precious treasure, we also celebrate its bright future,” declared the Prime Minister, standing before the iconic temple bathed in a luminous glow. The occasion marked the culmination of a 20-year revitalization project, breathing new life into a structure that has stood for millennia as a symbol of Greek heritage and resilience.
The Temple of Poseidon, perched dramatically on the cliffs of Cape Sounio, has borne witness to centuries of Greek history, from its mythical connections to King Aegeus and the legend of Theseus to its strategic importance as a fortress and naval base during the Golden Age of Pericles.
“These columns, after all, have been described as ‘strings of an invisible lyre’,” noted Mr. Mitsotakis, emphasizing the enduring power of the temple to inspire.
The new lighting, designed by Eleftheria Deco and her team, known for their sensitive work on the Acropolis, represents a harmonious blend of preservation and innovation. The system not only highlights the architectural brilliance of the temple but also minimizes light pollution, ensuring respect for the surrounding environment.
The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the Onassis Foundation for their generous sponsorship, highlighting the significance of public-private partnerships in supporting such initiatives. He commended the Ministry of Culture, the Ephorate of Antiquities, and the Metlen company, led by Evangelos Mytilineos, for their commitment and expertise in making this vision a reality.
Mr. Mitsotakis concluded his address with a call to action, urging a similar spirit of collaboration and ambition in other areas vital to Greece’s future, such as education. He emphasized that the Temple of Poseidon, now illuminated for a new era, serves as a potent symbol of what Greeks can achieve when they combine “moderation, confidence, and boldness.”
As the strains of Stavros Xarchakos’s music echoed through the night, the Temple of Poseidon stood as a luminous testament to the enduring legacy of Greece, reminding the world that even the most ancient of structures can be imbued with new meaning and relevance for generations to come.