*By Kostas Chalkiadakis
The Peloponnese Region is among the finalists for the Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism Awards 2026, claiming a major European distinction for a regenerative tourism initiative implemented in Myrsini, in the historical region of Mani. The nomination recognizes an approach that focuses on developing tourism with a focus on the local community, preserving cultural identity and creating long-term value for the destination.
The proposal is based on co-creation with residents and local stakeholders, seeking to highlight the cultural wealth of the region through a model that combines the protection of cultural heritage, the strengthening of social cohesion and sustainable tourism development. The aim is for tourism to function as a tool for the empowerment of local societies and not simply as an economic activity.
As the Deputy Regional Governor of Tourism of Peloponnese, Athanasios Michelongonas, points out, the selection of the Peloponnese Region among the top European destinations is a significant honor and at the same time confirmation of the strategy followed for a more sustainable, regenerative and participatory tourism, with an emphasis on the needs and prospects of local societies.
At the same time, he called on the public to support the Greek candidacy through voting for the Audience Award, emphasizing that each vote is a vote of confidence not only in Mani and the Peloponnese, but also in a different model of tourism development that focuses on people, culture and place.
The Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism Awards are organized by the European Cultural Tourism Network (ECTN), in collaboration with Europa Nostra, the European Travel Commission and NECSTouR, with the aim of highlighting destinations that implement innovative practices in sustainable cultural tourism. The winners of the awards will be announced on September 24, in the context of the 19th International Cultural Tourism Conference, to be held in Skiathos.
Source: tornosnews.gr