In a unique pairing of ancient heritage and modern art, the Ministry of Culture of Greece is revamping the lighting of the iconic Temple of Poseidon in Sounio.
The inauguration for the lighting event, scheduled for Monday, September 16th at 7:30 PM, will be broadcast live by ERT2 and ERT World.
Upgrading the Temple’s lighting after 20 Years
In 2004, due to the Olympic Games in Athens, the Ministry of Culture illuminated the sanctuary of Poseidon in Sounio. Its illumination provided for a new visual experience, reinforcing Sounio as an international destination for thousands of visitors.
The first lighting installation of the temple was completed in 2004 in the context of the Athens Olympic Games. However, after twenty years, this system was showing, according to the Ministry of Culture, signs of deterioration and the need for renewal. The company Metlen Energy & Metals undertook the study and implementation of the project.
The Temple of Poseidon in Sounio is now receiving an upgraded, new lighting system. The inauguration takes place in the presence of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni.
Enhancing the monument’s beauty and visitor experience
As stated in the announcement for the lighting inauguration, the internationally acclaimed Eleftheria Deco designed the new lighting of the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio. It sensitively highlights the architectural details of the monument.
The upgraded lighting ensures visitors can enjoy the landscape both day and night. According to an update from the Ministry of Culture, those accountable for the design and implementation of the lighting for Sounio:
“took special care and ensured that visitors’ visual experience at the archaeological site during the day remained undisturbed. Additionally, they placed all the elements of the installation and the lighting fixtures in such a way that they do not obstruct the navigation [or result in] visual disturbance to the visitors. Τhe positions of the lighting, as well as the routes of the wiring and electrical installations, were carefully planned and placed in appropriate places in order to ensure the smooth operation of the space.”
Illumination event concludes with a musical tribute
International audiences view the temple’s lighting as it is broadcast live during a special event. Numerous institutions, including museums, universities, cultural centers, world wide chambers, and news agencies, come together for the inauguration, highlighting its cultural significance.
The illumination event concludes with a concert by the distinguished Greek composer Stavros Xarhakos. He presents a musical composition that pays tribute to the cultural heritage of Greece.
At the same time, the concert is accompanied by leading Greek artists. These include Dimitris Bassis, Iro Saia, and Zacharias Karounis, a multi-member choir, as well as a string and wind ERT Contemporary Music Orchestra under the direction of Stavros Xarhakos.
