The Ministry of Culture focuses on improving visitor pathways and accessibility at the significant archaeological site of Gortyn in Crete. These initiatives aim to make the ancient ruins more accessible for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues. The improvements are part of a larger restoration project, which includes preserving and highlighting key monuments. This broader project also extends to excavation and restoration efforts for the Great Theater of Gortyn, with an overall project budget of €2.5 million.
The primary goal is to guide visitors safely and comfortably, especially in more challenging areas. The project emphasizes:
- Better movement routes within the archaeological complex.
- Safe access for visitors with disabilities.
- Viewing and resting areas designed for all visitors.
- An upgraded parking facility with reserved spaces for individuals with disabilities.
Overview of Gortyn and Its Historical Significance
The expansive Gortyn archaeological site spans approximately 27 acres and has operated as a cultural attraction since the 1970s. Some of its most prominent features include:
- Roman Odeon: Built at the highest point of the Hellenistic Agora, incorporating parts of the earlier Bouleuterion. The Laws of Gortyn, a significant legal inscription, were discovered on its external wall.
- Church of Saint Titus: A nearby Byzantine-era structure tied to early Christian history.
- Watermill (Gerou Savouidakis): A historical structure set for restoration to become part of the visitor experience.
- Evergreen Plane Tree: A natural monument linked to the myth of Zeus and Europa.
Ongoing excavations of the Great Theater nearby aim to uncover more of Gortyn’s cultural treasures, further enriching the attraction.
Comprehensive Infrastructure Enhancements
Over the years, various additions have improved the site’s accessibility and visitor experience:
- A café, gift shop, restroom facilities, and a ticket office with a guard post.
- Spaces were unified through land acquisitions, creating a cohesive and welcoming environment.
- Pathways and infrastructure for visitors with disabilities, including ramps, were implemented.
Current plans seek to improve infrastructure further, expanding access to key parts of the site:
- Enhanced routes ensuring disabled visitors can explore major areas such as the Odeon and beyond.
- Safe areas for eating, resting, or enjoying the scenery.
- Protection measures for natural monuments like the Evergreen Plane Tree, paired with the construction of a pedestrian bridge offering accessibility to all, including individuals with mobility limitations.
It’s noted that autonomous movement for the visually impaired isn’t yet supported, requiring an accompanying person to navigate.
Lina Mendoni, the Minister of Culture, remarked, “The archaeological site of Gortyn represents a historically significant space, showcasing architectural remnants of an ancient and prominent city. Together with the recently inaugurated Archaeological Museum of Messara, it forms a unique cultural and tourist destination. Through collaboration with the Region of Crete, improvements focus on accessibility, safeguarding against floods, and uncovering and restoring monuments like the Great Theater. These efforts are reshaping Gortyn into a key heritage site, boosting visitor appeal. With its inclusion in Crete’s Cultural Routes and the future use of the Theater for artistic events, Gortyn is poised to offer a compelling cultural experience while enhancing local tourism.”
Historical Context of Gortyn
Located 45 km south of Heraklion, the ancient city of Gortyn spans over 4,000 acres, including its acropolis and burial grounds. Gortyn rose to prominence across the Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods. Highlights of this once-thriving city included:
- Three marketplaces.
- Complex water systems, including aqueducts and fountains.
- Hellenistic-era stadiums, bathhouses, temples, and key public buildings like the Odeon and Praetorium.
The discovery of the Laws of Gortyn, recognized as Europe’s earliest recorded law code, further cemented its historical importance. The city served as a pivotal episcopal centre during the early Christian era (circa 380 AD). Gortyn’s decline occurred by the 9th century AD.
Visitor Experience and Future Enhancements
Efforts to restore and improve the site will maintain the traditional visitor pathway while making new areas like the Great Theater and Watermill part of the experience. Accessible routes for disabled visitors will cover key landmarks. The upgrades also address emergency access and ensure new seating areas provide rest and scenic views of highlighted features such as the Odeon and ancient olive trees.
This iconic site continues to evolve, combining preservation with enhanced accessibility for modern visitors while respecting its rich historical legacy.
Αναβάθμιση των διαδρομών και της προσβασιμότητας στον αρχαιολογικό χώρο της Γόρτυνας
