The exhibition was based on the findings of the Joint Advisory Mission, which conducted a three-day visit to the archaeological site of the Acropolis between April 27 and 29, 2022.
These experts visited the site and developed a series of discussions with the services responsible for its protection and management and the scientific staff, while they were informed, through the extensive bibliography and articles brought to their attention, about the history of the restorations and the procedures for the protection and management of the archaeological site, as well as about the studies that have been implemented or are in progress on the monuments of the Acropolis.
In the context of their visit, a meeting was also organized with representatives of civil society (such as the National Confederation of People with Disabilities of Greece, the Association of Greek Paralympians, the Greek Section of ICOMOS, etc.), as well as tourism professionals, with which a discussion developed mainly on the issues of access and operation of the archaeological site.
The mission was impressed by the thoroughness, diligence, and extremely high quality work with much attention to detail. Systematic documentation and publication of research and studies, before and after implementation, are carried out and disseminated. The highest academic research on the Acropolis and the science of archeology are closely intertwined with modern archaeological techniques and exemplary pioneering practices, including digitization. The mission concludes that many of these practices could serve as models for heritage conservation efforts worldwide.
What the 70-page report say
The mission resulted in a 70-page report, which is briefly and indicatively summarized as follows:
The general status of the Outstanding Universal Value of the Monument included in the World Heritage List with the name “Acropolis, Athens” it is excellent and adequately protected. Laws and regulations ensure the protection of the monument and its buffer zone.
The decision making system ensures that thorough and detailed studies are being prepared before new interventions are approved.
The management of the monument and the main restoration services, including restoration works, are carried out by the Member State. Therefore, there is close supervision, which ensures that every step of the restoration and maintenance efforts is done systematically.
The decision-making process for all major restoration and maintenance projects includes specialized scientists and academicswhile it has incorporated procedures of documentation, consultation and dialogue with experts, at national and international level.
The renewal and widening of the visiting routes, the elevator and the lighting project were implemented all following studies, examination and documentation by ESMA. Subsequently, the proposals were specified by the YSMA and the studies were approved by the YSMA and submitted for the legal opinion to the Central Archaeological Council. The competent EFA of the City of Athens also formulated comments and suggestions on the studies. The restoration studies were additionally presented and discussed at the International Acropolis Meetings. Therefore all studies were implemented after thorough investigation.
