The Orthodox Academy of Crete (OAC) is organizing a series of discussions on the central theme: “Cretan Culture in… Crisis?” At the same time, it is extending an open invitation to all cultural associations and organizations that promote the culture of our region, as well as to any individuals interested in contributing to this dialogue, which is so necessary for the future of Cretan tradition.

In today’s era of contradictions and rapid developments, questions are being raised about local development and the crisis of values. At the same time, terms such as Culture, Community, Development, Sustainable Tourism, Intangible Cultural Heritage, etc. are being redefined.

Local authorities, cultural associations, local businesses, and ordinary residents have the right and the obligation to learn about our culture, the intangible and tangible products of our cultural heritage, how to preserve, promote, and disseminate them, as well as modern methods and practices for healthy, multi-level, and long-term development. promote and disseminate them, as well as the modern methods and practices of healthy, multi-level, and long-term development. At the same time, we all have an obligation to protect it by promoting all those characteristics that will help our contemporary identity.

The interdisciplinary discussions will be led by renowned academics who have done important work and research in their fields (folklore, dance, music, cultural management, arts). The first meeting will take place on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., in the Main Hall of the OAC, with Mr. Emmanouil Varvounis, Professor of Folklore at the Democritus University of Thrace, as the speaker.

Participation is free of charge, and the discussions will conclude with the drawing of conclusions and the definition of initiatives for healthy local cultural development.