Visit to the Summer School of the Diaspora
The Candidacy Office KALAMATA: 21 paid a visit to the Summer School of the Diaspora on
Friday the 7 th of August 2015. The executive director of the Candidacy Office, Mr. Hector
Tsatsoulis, spoke to the students about the candidacy of Kalamata as European Capital of
Culture and the possibilities that exist with its emergence not only in improving the accessibility in cultural events but also in opportunities of professional development. He also reported practical ways in which the students would be able to assist in the effort of
Kalamata to become European Capital of Culture as ambassadors of the idea of the
KALAMATA: 21 when they will return to their home towns.
Moreover, the students were asked what they liked, what they did not like and why they believe that our city could be nominated as European Capital of Culture. Among the positive aspects of Kalamata the elements of hospitality, the beautiful and unique landscape and the tasty food dominate. Among those that they did not enjoy, dominate the comments on the opening hours of shops and the timetables of the buses, on the access to the banks during the imposition of capital controls, on graffiti, on taxi drivers who tried to fool them, on the lack of giving change and on the expensive drinks. Furthermore, many reported that the way of service in the shops should improve as sometimes was slow and abusive. They think that technology and recycling should go further.
Despite all the negative aspects, they believe that Kalamata is a city that has many cultural elements in order to become European Capital of Culture, especially if the city improves all the above stated aspects. More specifically, “Kalamata has a prominent position on Greek history and culture” said Michael, while Alexander stated: “I believe that the people of
Kalamata are quite hospitable and have a chance to become European Capital of Culture.
The entire city needs to be close to this effort.” “Kalamata is a magical place with so much to offer. The beaches, the food and the people offer unique moments. It has the perfect combination of history and modernity.” said Christina. “It is the perfect combination of urban city life in a small provincial town. It represents very well the whole Greek culture.
Beautiful landscapes and great history” said Georgia and Stephanie added: “Kalamata has much to offer as regards the culture and the promotion of the Greek heritage. The landscape here is beautiful and Kalamata is situated close to many other important monuments.” Finally, Din stated that Kalamata “is a beautiful place that will make Europe proud. It is full of history.” and Dimitris respectively said: “Kalamata captures the definition of Greek culture: birth of the revolution, beauty, hospitable city with opportunities of economic development.”.