The Ephorate of Antiquities of Rethymno has decided not to approve the temporary use of an outdoor parking space with a fee, on a part of a property at the intersection of Kefalogiannidon and Melissinou streets, in the Old Town of Rethymno. The property, owned by the heirs Michael and Charalambos Tzelisis, is rented by the company “SEASIDE PARKING K SIA E.E.”
The decision was taken with the aim of protecting the historical and cultural character of the area, which has a special monumental value. According to the Ephorate, the proposed development and use of the area as a car park would substantially alter the physiognomy of the Old City, causing aesthetic disturbance to monuments of exceptional importance, such as the Fortezza fortress and the Hellenistic naval buildings in the area. It is noted that part of one of the naval buildings is located within the property to which the request relates.
The existence and need to preserve the Hellenistic naval buildings, as characteristic architectural remains of great historical value, makes any activity that could degrade or endanger their integrity prohibited, in accordance with the provisions of the law on the protection of cultural heritage.
The Ephorate also points out that the necessary interventions for the configuration and operation of the outdoor parking area, such as ground configurations, installation of equipment and lighting fixtures, as well as an increase in traffic load, are not consistent with the monumental character and the needs for the protection of the built environment of the wider area.
Furthermore, the creation of another outdoor parking area would further burden the already burdened western side of the Old Town, where a parking area for employees of the Regional Unit of Rethymno already operates opposite, while on the same street there are three other parking areas with a fee for the public and hotel guests.
The decision was taken in light of the provisions for the protection of cultural heritage and after an assessment of the existing situation in the area. Finally, the decision is part of the management of the Old Town, where tourist development, parking needs and the protection of monuments coexist, often creating conflicting priorities.
