Greece Celebrates Inclusion of Zagori on UNESCO World Heritage List

Papingo, Zagorochoria. Photo source: UNESCO World Heritage.

In a historic achievement for Greece, Zagori, a destination known for its rich cultural heritage, was recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Greek Culture Ministry announced on Tuesday.

According to the ministry, Zagori’s inclusion on the list marks the first time that a “cultural property” from Greece’s modern era received such recognition, as all previous listings mainly focused on ancient or Byzantine sites.

“UNESCO has acknowledged the exceptional universal value of Zagorochoria’s architectural treasures, showcasing the remarkable coexistence and interaction of Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles,” said Culture Minister Lina Mendoni.

Zagori is Greece’s 19th entry on UNESCO’s list.

“This recognition hails the destination’s authenticity and integrity, key criteria for securing a place on the prestigious World Heritage list,” the minister added

The Monastery of Panagia Spilaiotissa (Aristi village) is built on a limestone rock on the west bank of the river Voidomatis. Photo source: UNESCO World Heritage.

Zagori, nestled within the remote rural landscape of northwestern Greece, boasts picturesque stone villages, collectively known as Zagorochoria. These settlements are typically centered around a central square adorned with a plane tree and surrounded by sacred forests maintained by local communities.

The architectural charm of these villages is intricately designed to harmonize with the mountainous terrain. A network of stone-arched bridges, cobblestone paths, and stone staircases interconnecting the villages formed a vital system that served as both a political and social unit, uniting the communities of the Voïdomatis River basin.

rescoes (detail), monastery of Profitis Ilias, Vitsa. Photo source: UNESCO World Heritage.

“The inscription of Zagori on the UNESCO World Heritage List signifies an invitation and a pledge to Greece to preserve and safeguard this newfound global heritage,”  added Mendoni.

Moreover, the minister thanked the ministry’s services as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Epirus Regional Governor Alexandros Kachrimanis, Zagori Mayor George Soukouvelos and the residents of the destination who collaborated with a number of experts including archaeologists, historians, biologists, architects to compile the nomination file submitted to UNESCO in February 2022.

UNESCO announced Zagori’s inclusion on the list during the 46th session of UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee in Riyadh.