Η πολιτιστική κληρονομιά υπέρτατο αναπτυξιακό εργαλείο για την ανάταση της χώρας από την κρίση. Η σημασία της UNESCO για την προστασία της πολιτιστικής και φυσικής κληρονομιάς.

Abstract

This paper discusses the importance to protect cultural heritage as it could be both used as a tool to safeguard the historical memory of people and support Greece‘s economic development from recession. To begin with, it aims to clarify the concept of heritage and the role of UNESCO, as an international organization of protection and preservation of World Cultural Heritage. In addition, the paper is referred to the cultural heritage, and consequently to the country’s culture from the view of its economy and growth potential. On the one hand, the dynamics of cultural tourism as an alternative form of tourism, its positive and negative aspects, and its future prospects for development are examined. On the other hand, the paper describes cultural and creative industries, as a sub-sector of the economy of culture. The encouraging results of cultural and creative industries during crisis can explain the strategic thrust of the UNESCO and the EU to support their action. Furthermore, qualitative and quantitative research methods are used in order to find out how the cultural tourism and activities such as festivals could influence the local economy of Ancient Olympia. It is clear that Ancient Olympia constitutes a region recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site that attracts a large number of visitors and possesses excellent growth potential. Therefore, weaknesses and opportunities of the region are highlighted as a tool to boost the local economy. It is also examined whether the Olympia’s International Film Festival for Children and Youth contributes or not to the sustainable local economy by increasing its benefits in the region. Finally, the paper presents the policies to be adopted so as Ancient Olympia could exploit the UNESCO’s brand name, as well as the brand value of Olympism and transform the cultural value into economic power. In conclusion, culture is underlined as the key pillar of a strategic development strategy in Greece that will help the economy recover from recession.