Elefsina – Hellenic Republic

Elefsina is 2023 European Capital of Culture!

Exploring the ancient, modern and contemporary history of Elefsina, one is amazed by its rare diversity, its rich historical and mythological past and its multifaceted and ambitious present.

Elefsina, the birthplace of the ‘’father of tragedy’’ Aeschylus, was known since ancient times for the Eleusinian Mysteries, one of the most important religious ceremonies of ancient Greece. Apart from its mythological tradition, the city has a rare archaeological wealth as one of the five most important Holy Cities of antiquity.

From the 19^th century onwards, Elefsina was transformed into a productive engine, taking its place among the largest industrial centers in Greece.

The importance of Elefsina as the birthplace of Aeschylus, the notable position of women throughout the long life of the city, its special place in folk songs add color and aspects of uniqueness to this city.

The Aeschylia Festival, which has been held there every summer for the past 40 years, is one of the most important national events in the field of culture and the arts.

The artistic programme of this Capital of Culture is called the “Mysteries of Transition”, taking its cue from the Eleusinian Mysteries, comprising of three main elements: people/society, environment and labour. Environment has a special focus as a subject inextricably linked with the challenges Elefsina as a (post)industrial city – as well as the wider world – is facing.

Elefsina is the 4^th city in Greece to hold the title. Athens, the birthplace of the European Capitals of Culture (ECoC) programme, was the 1^st city in the country to hold it.

Plan your visit!

If you are in Elefsina, do not miss the chance to visit the “Mystery 34 Faces of Elefsina”, a photographic and multimedia exhibition by the famous American photographer Lina Bertucci, vividly portraying the diverse communities of the town at the Elefsina Old Town Hall (free entrance, until 26 November)!

Sources & photographs taken from: https://2023eleusis.eu/en/

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