The important project of the Ministry of Culture to protect the archaeological site of the Heraion of Samos from coastal erosion is entering the implementation phase, following the positive opinion of the Central Archaeological Council (KAS) on the coastal engineering study addressing shoreline erosion, the environmental impact assessment, and the technical and environmental study for the final port-related works.

Due to the orientation of the coastline, wave action during southerly winds develops at significant intensity and has caused extensive damage in front of the refreshment pavilion building. The interventions, with a total budget of 200,000 euros, aim to address the observed erosion phenomena, properly reshape the shoreline front, and restore the courtyard area of the building.

“The Heraion of Samos is one of the most important sanctuaries of the ancient Greek world and one of the most emblematic monuments of Ionic architecture, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1992. At the same time, it is one of the 25 major archaeological sites for which the Ministry of Culture is implementing plans to confront the extreme phenomena caused by the climate crisis, under the National Plan for addressing the impacts of climate change on cultural heritage,” notes Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni. She adds:

“Due to the location of the archaeological site along the coastal front, the continuous influence of the sea combined with climate variations in recent years has led to extensive erosion of the area and the retaining wall at the boundary of the site—something we also observed during our on-site inspection this summer. With respect for the natural and cultural environment, we are proceeding with targeted and scientifically substantiated interventions to fortify the coastline and address the erosion that has caused significant damage to the coastal facilities of the site (the refreshment pavilion and its courtyard). The project also contributes to adapting the site to modern climatic conditions and protecting the cultural landscape of Samos’ southeastern coastline. The planned works will restore the affected area, curb wave impact, and ensure the integrity of a monument of global significance.”