Day 1: 05 March 2024
Our first stop will be the site of Ancient Kameiros, once a formidable town of profound historical significance. Alongside Lindos and Ialyssos, it played a crucial role in the formation of the powerful city-state of Rhodes during the 5th century BC. Today only a few remnants remain as a testament to the town’s former grandeur, preserving the remains of an advanced civilization dating back nearly 3,000 years.
Continuing our journey we head to the medieval castle remains of Kritinia and Monolithos and then stop in the historic monastery of Saint John of Artemitou. Here, we will savor the delectable flavors of Rhodian gastronomy.
Next stop is Apollona. Here you will have the opportunity to contribute to a greener future by donating and naming a tree. Your generous act will promote environmental sustainability and have a lasting impact on the natural landscape. With your valuable help and support, we can restore its former beauty and charm.
Our day ends with our conference on the environment after the wildfires of last summer in the municipal theatre of Rhodes.
Restoring and Rebuilding After the 2023 Wildfire in Rhodes Seminar – Municipal Theatre of Rhodes
In the wake of the devastating 2023 wildfire in Rhodes, our focus lies on providing immediate support to the affected communities. Our post-wildfire efforts are centered around conducting thorough assessments to gauge the extent of damage and potential risks in the impacted areas. This crucial step enables us to develop effective strategies for recovery and rehabilitation.
To ensure the stability of the environment, we are implementing erosion control measures, initiating reforestation projects, and undertaking habitat restoration initiatives. These actions not only prevent further soil erosion but also foster the revival of the ecosystem, promoting a sustainable and vibrant natural habitat.
In response to this unprecedented event, we recognize the need for evaluating and updating our fire management strategies. Enhancing firefighting resources and equipment is a top priority, allowing us to be better prepared for any future emergencies. Equally important is raising public awareness and education on fire safety and prevention, empowering the community to actively contribute to safeguarding their surroundings.
By acting swiftly and comprehensively after the wildfire, we can mitigate the long-term ecological and economic impacts, ensuring the resilience and safety of both communities and natural environments. Together, we embark on a journey of restoring and rebuilding, fostering a stronger, more secure future for Rhodes.
Day 2: 06 March 2024
Rhodes holds a significant place in the hearts of Orthodox Christians as a revered pilgrimage destination. The island boasts numerous historic monasteries, churches, and religious sites that date back centuries, preserving the rich spiritual heritage of the faith.
During the second day of our journey, we are granted a glimpse of some Rhodian Orthodox monuments. We commence in the village of Lindos, where we encounter the 13th-century Church dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin, along with the newly constructed Holy Church of Agios Malachias.
Our next stop takes us to the 19th-century Holy Monastery of Panagia (Holy Virgin) Ipseni, where we visit the Church of Saint Meletius.
Finally, we reach Panagia Tsambika, one of the most prominent and renowned pilgrimages in honor of the Virgin Mary in the Dodecanese.
As our journey draws to a close, we conclude with the grandest exhibition of Dodecanese costumes and Greek dances, to be performed at the stadium of Koskinou. This captivating display encapsulates the vibrant spirit of the region and marks a memorable conclusion to our pilgrimage.
Day 3: 07 March 2024
In 1947, after centuries of being under the rule of various foreign powers, the Dodecanese Islands finally became an integral part of Greece. This significant incorporation was achieved through the Treaty of Peace with Italy following the conclusion of World War II. For the people of Greece, this event was a moment of great jubilation and national pride, symbolizing the reunification of territories deeply connected to Greek history and heritage.
The day’s festivities commence with a vibrant parade celebrating the incorporation of the Dodecanese Islands into Greece. Subsequently, our journey takes us to explore prominent museums and historical sites, including the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, the Museum of Modern Greek Art Nestoridio Melathron, the Geomuseum Stamatiadis, and the traditional house of Trianda.
Day 4: 08 March 2024
B2B Conference
The conference will serve as a venue for The Greek Festival’s supporters to showcase their diverse array of products and services. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to not only sample these offerings, but also engage in inquiries, foster innovation, and cultivate collaborative endeavors.
Our festival will draw to a close with a charitable benefit concert, seeking to raise funds for a philanthropic initiative. Given the current timing, it is premature to reveal the precise particulars of the event.