The historic Byzantine Tower of Prosforo in Ouranoupoli is undergoing fortification through stabilization and fire protection efforts, thanks to a generous donation of 1.3 million euros from Hellenic Gold S.A. to the Ministry of Culture.
The initiative encompasses restoration activities aimed at preserving the tower’s structural integrity, implementing fire protection measures for both the tower and its surroundings, and enhancing the area itself. Planned interventions include reinforcing masonry, repairing wooden components, renovations to the arsan, introducing active fire protection systems, and improving accessibility to the site.
This complex boasts a rich historical narrative. Until 1922, it served as the residence of the estate manager. In 1924, it temporarily accommodated refugee families from Asia Minor. By 1928, Sydney and Joyce Loch took up residence there, making significant humanitarian contributions to the community. Currently, the ground floor operates as an exhibition space showcasing antiquities from both pre-Christian and Christian eras in Chalkidiki, while the upper level commemorates the refugees of Ouranoupoli and the Loch couple.
“The Tower of Prosforo is the most significant remaining Byzantine and post-Byzantine complex in the area, encapsulating the history of Ouranoupoli over the centuries. Its existence can be traced back to 1344, and it is believed to have been constructed in the 11th or 12th century. Originally part of the “Prosforion” estate of the Monastery of Vatopedi, it included agricultural and port facilities, clustered around the tower-residence, the barbak (fortified enclosure), and the arsanas (port refuge),” stated Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni after signing the donation agreement. She emphasized, “The Ministry of Culture, through the Ephorate of Antiquities of Chalkidiki and Mount Athos, has completed studies for the conservation and restoration of this complex. Our primary strategy is to foster collaboration with the private sector and local government to benefit the heritage of each region. Investing in culture fortifies local communities and enhances regional economies. I firmly believe that culture is a public good and a unique economic sector supporting social cohesion, prosperity, and development.”
“I extend my gratitude to Christos Balaskas, President of Hellenic Gold S.A., for agreeing to our proposal, which unites us all here in Ouranoupoli,” added Mendoni.
Lina Mendoni is pictured alongside Christos Balaskas, President of Hellenic Gold; Louw Smith from Eldorado Gold; Mayor Stelios Valianos; and Giorgos Skiadaris, head of the Ephorate of Chalkidiki and Mount Athos.
Christos Balaskas, President of Hellenic Gold S.A., remarked: “Our dedication to sustainable development and community value creation in Aristotle Municipality is reflected through a comprehensive approach, involving targeted social investments that significantly impact the local community’s future. Consequently, promoting our cultural heritage is an integral aspect of our $80 million strategic social investment program for the area. The restoration of the Tower of Ouranoupoli stands out as an initiative that embodies our pride and respect for the area’s history and identity.”
Mayor Stelios Valianos commented: “Securing funding for the restoration of the Tower of Prosforo in Ouranoupoli exemplifies our municipal authority’s ongoing advocacy for community benefits from mining activities. I am delighted that this project will materialize and that this emblematic feature of Ouranoupoli—the tower that stands sentinel at the gateway to Mount Athos—will receive the protection and restoration it rightfully deserves. Additionally, I am hopeful that the Ministry of Culture will allocate a significant portion of the saved funds, covered by Hellenic Gold, to enhance other initiatives promoting our cultural heritage!”
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