Restored Piada Castle in Nea Epidavros Opens to the Public

Photo Source: Greek Culture Ministry

The restored Piada Castle in Nea Epidavros officially opened its doors to the public this week in the presence of Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou and Culture Minister Lina Mendoni.

Photo Source: Greek Culture Ministry

“Works like the one attributed today connect us more closely to our history, our roots, and to the spirit of destinations,” said Sakellaropoulou, thanking all those who helped restore the Byzantine site. Greece’s president was given a tour of the historic site and the Epidavros Archaeological Museum following the event.

The medieval castle that dates back to the Byzantine period is located in Piada, which is today the village of Nea Epidavros. Greece’s 1^st National Assembly was held at Nea Epidavros after the 1821 War of Independence.

“This is where the 1st National Assembly convened, the Declaration of Independence of Greece and the first constitution of Greece were approved,” said Sakellaropoulou, adding that the foundations of the country’s democracy were laid here.

The restoration of the Piada Castle and the churches of Agios Ioannis Theologos and Agios Georgios cost 751,721,24 euros and was funded through EU resources.

Photo Sources: Greek Culture Ministry

“The restored castle is one more attraction added to the already rich cultural reserve of Argolis as part of an extensive conservation and restoration program of archaeological sites across Greece,” said Mendoni, adding that 25 million euros have been channeled into culture projects in the region.