Greece has embarked on a large-scale project to connect the culture and regional development by establishing fifteen Cultural Masterplans in the entire country. The project is meant to turn heritage assets into sustainable economic and social development engines and the development of local communities in terms of visibility and vitality.

The chosen regions are urban centres, as well as islands, starting with Xanthi and Komotini in the north to Ikaria, Samos, and Chios in the Aegean Sea. Every site will develop an elaborate program, which incorporates cultural conservation, tourism policy, and local business. It aims at establishing unique regional identities and increasing employment and innovation to support the creative industries.

The universities, research institutes, and local authorities are aiding in the development of the Cultural Masterplans. They are not only concerned with the restoration of heritage buildings but also with contemporary cultural facilities, education of creative workers, and community involvement in decision-making. The initiative is a change of attitude – culture is not a cost, but a contribution to the development of the region through strategic investments.

This programme provides a chance for the local communities to redefine their future through the use of culture. It also urges the municipalities, non-governmental organizations, and businesses to collaborate so as to ensure that the cultural projects will yield long-term gains. It can be addressed as a call to embrace creative partnerships with organisations that care about the development of the region and help in building a stronger and more unified Greece.