On December 19, the historic Chronaki House in Heraklion was formally delivered to the Lyceum of Greek Women of Heraklion, marking the beginning of a new chapter for a home long woven into the city’s memory.
The building will now be restored and reimagined as a Museum of Cretan Weaving Art and Folklore, open to the public. In this space, fabric, story, and tradition will once again have a voice.
A Vision Patiently Carried Forward
For the Lyceum of Greek Women of Heraklion, this moment represents the realization of a long-held vision—a dream shaped quietly, with persistence rather than noise.
Gratitude was expressed to Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni and Regional Governor of Crete Stavros Arnaoutakis for their support of a project that centers on cultural continuity.
The official handover of the building was completed by the Service of Modern Monuments of Crete, with thanks extended to its Director, Dimitris Stefanis, and his team for their cooperation throughout the process.
Restoration with Care and Purpose
The renovation of the Chronaki House will be undertaken by the Region of Crete, through the Technical Service of the Heraklion Regional Unit.
Special acknowledgment was given to:
- Chara Triamataki, Head of Service
- Eleni Tsangarakaki, Head of Department
- Their technical teams, whose contribution is considered essential to the project’s success
Thanks were also extended to Chrysi Daskalaki, Head of the General Directorate of Development Planning of the Region of Crete, and her collaborators, for their role in securing project funding.
A Quiet Ceremony, a Meaningful Beginning
The handover took place during a simple, understated ceremony, attended by members of the Lyceum’s Board and many of its members — people who understand that cultural work often unfolds far from the spotlight. The event was also honored by the presence of:
- The Regional Governor of Crete
- Heraklion’s Deputy Mayor for Culture, Rena Papadaki
Their presence underscored the shared understanding that heritage is not inherited automatically. It must be protected, restored, and offered back to the community.
A House Ready to Speak Again
With this handover, a new era begins for the Lyceum of Greek Women of Heraklion — and for a house that will soon carry voices of looms, threads, and memory once more, not as a monument frozen in time, but as a living place of craft, knowledge, and belonging.
