The Greek Culture Ministry has unveiled cultural masterplans for 15 cities and islands as part of a wider initiative to help smaller communities tap into their cultural assets and drive growth.

The plans, presented to the press last week by Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, are the outcome of extensive research and fieldwork and are designed to support local and regional authorities in shaping cultural strategies, developing strong regional brands, and securing EU funding for tourism and economic development.

Budgeted at 600,000 euros, the pilot project was carried out in collaboration with the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the University of the Aegean, and the Panteion University’s Institute of Regional Development.

For the first time, targeted research explored the cultural potential of Ikaria, Samos, Chios, Lesvos, Limnos, Leros, Kos, Rhodes, Xanthi, Komotini, Alexandroupoli, Drama, Kavala, Soufli, and Thessaloniki.

Culture as a Driver of Cohesion

“The masterplans are not funding, but tools that municipalities can use to design programs, build regional brands, and access EU resources,” said Mendoni, emphasizing the need to view culture “as something in motion, not static” and thus requiring strategic steps to for it to produce fruits. Culture is also the glue that holds societies together.

Deputy Culture Minister Iason Fotilas added that the roadmaps can pave the way for new cultural tourism products that will attract visitors while boosting both local and national economies.

Researchers noted that the project focused on areas with rich cultural heritage but slower economic development, stressing that the findings will enable communities to showcase cultural products and reinforce regional identity. Mendoni confirmed that similar blueprints for additional cities and regions will follow.

Regional governors and mayors attended the presentation. Minister Mendoni said four hybrid workshops have been planned to further discuss the results with local governments and communities: in Komotini (October 7), Lesvos (October 21), Rhodes (November 4), and Thessaloniki (November 11).

“The masterplans are aimed at motivating local governments into action,” Mendoni concluded.