A vision that has been cultivated for over four decades is now entering the implementation stage: the restoration, promotion, and reuse of the historic Venetian Wharfs in Chania, with a budget of 20,711,095 euros, has been officially included for financing.
The Mayor of Chania, Panagiotis Simandirakis, described the development as decisive for the city’s identity: “This is not just a project of the Municipality of Chania. It is a victory for our culture, history, and architectural heritage.” The project is expected to “revive” the emblematic Wharfs, creating a modern cultural and social core. The new uses will respect the historical character of the monument, while strengthening the tourist and cultural potential of the city.
According to the decision of the Ministry of National Economy and Finance, the project for the “Restoration, Promotion and Use of the Complex of Seven (7) Venetian Shipyards in the Old Town of Chania” is part of the “Environment and Climate Change 2021-2027” Program, with a total budget of 20,711,095 euros and provides for the complete restoration of the 7 Shipyards, with the aim of transforming them into an open, cultural and social space of high standards, accessible to all.
The mayor of Chania, Panagiotis Simandirakis, emphasized that “it took 40 whole years for the Municipality of Chania to reach this particularly important moment. The inclusion that was announced, with the signature of the Deputy Minister, Mr. Papathanasis, is essentially launching the next and final steps of the tender and the award of the project, so that the people of Chania — and not only — can see the project being implemented and delivered to society, explained Mr. Mayor.
For his part, the Deputy Mayor for Culture Yiannis Giannakakis said that the Venetian Wards in Chania are taking a decisive step towards their completion, creating a new cultural hub for Crete and the Mediterranean. The space will host exhibitions, musical and theatrical events, as well as a permanent amphitheater and refreshment center. Mr. Efthymiou estimated that the signing of the contract will take place in 6-8 months, with work starting in 2025.
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