Delphi claims title of European Capital of Culture 2021

"Delphi constitutes a landmark for every Greek and European citizen that symbolizes the deepest and most important origins of the current western culture. The municipality of Delphi bears the responsibility and faces the extremely interesting challenge of protecting this heritage. Apart from the glorious ancient times, the city also features elements of both the medieval and modern history of Greece," Panagiotopoulos said, noting that the nomination of Delphi is supported by the region of Central Greece, the Regional Union of Municipalities of Central Greece and the European Cultural Centre of Delphi (ECCD).

"We firmly believe that Delphi can send an ecumenical message to Greece and Europe. The city of Delphi can send a message of hope regarding Greece's role in modern Europe, but also the cultural presence of today's Europe, which must face the great social challenges and be "transformed" through the culture of tolerance, solidarity and progress," the mayor added.

On his part, the local governor of Central Greece Kostas Bakoyannis underlined that the centre of ancient Greece can become the cultural centre of Europe as it is the place that historically constituted the meeting point of cultures and development of new links between peoples.

"Delphi will safeguard in the best possible way the common cultural heritage of Europe and make it accessible to everyone. The "Delphic Idea" of Angelos Sikelianos that makes Delphi a universal spiritual centre is now more timely than ever and coincides perfectly with the spirit of the institution of the European Capital of Culture," Bakoyannis said.