Greece Looks to Showcase War Cemeteries to Boost Historical Tourism

The Phaleron War Cemetery in Greece. Photo source: CWGC

The Greek Tourism Ministry is looking to position its Commonwealth War Cemeteries as key landmarks for historical and thematic tourism, aiming to attract visitors from across the globe while preserving the memory of those who fell in the two World Wars.

Greece is home to 25 such cemeteries, commemorating some 18,000 servicemen from the Commonwealth and other nations, including 6,000 whose resting places remain unknown and are honored at four memorials.

During a recent discussion of Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni with senior representatives from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) and the British Embassy in Athens, the significance of these sites as symbols of remembrance, reconciliation and shared values was underscored. The CWGC, established during World War I, continues to maintain these cemeteries as enduring tributes to the fallen, while also promoting them as points of historical interest for international travelers.

Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni (second from right) with CWGC’s UK area director, Xavier Puppinck (left) and British Ambassador to Greece Matthew Lodge (right). Photo source: Greek Tourism Ministry

CWGC’s UK area director, Xavier Puppinck, and British Ambassador to Greece Matthew Lodge highlighted the global reach of this heritage tourism potential, noting interest from countries such as Canada, South Africa, India, Australia, and New Zealand. They highlighted the importance of raising awareness of these sites among both visitors and local communities.

Kefalogianni welcomed the proposals, affirming the ministry’s commitment to supporting the promotion and maintenance of the cemeteries within the broader framework of historical and thematic tourism. Special attention was given to the Phaleron War Cemetery in Athens, with the minister stressing collaboration with regional authorities and institutions such as the War Museum of Athens to enhance its visibility.

The Phaleron War Cemetery in Greece. Photo source: CWGC

The discussions also explored expanding initiatives to other emblematic sites, including the Commonwealth Cemeteries in Chania’s Souda Bay and Thessaloniki, reinforcing the country’s dedication to linking heritage preservation with tourism development.

Follow GTP Headlines on Google News to keep up to date with all the latest on tourism and travel in Greece.