Today, 31 July 2026, we were honoured to be visited by Dr Costas Kadis, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans at the Digital Cultural Heritage Research Centre MNEMOSYNE at Cyprus University of Technology. Our discussions focused first on the holistic digital documentation of the Lambousa fishing trawler, the eLambousa project, and its resulting #MemoryTwin, showcasing it as a unique testimony to Cyprus’ local identity, maritime heritage, and cultural story. We also demonstrated how this pioneering work reflects our holistic approach to documenting both the tangible and intangible dimensions of cultural heritage, creating a lasting digital legacy for future generations.
In a post on social media, the Commissioner stated that “the project highlights the maritime history of our wider region and is a characteristic example of how innovation can contribute to preserving our collective memory and passing it on to future generations. Protecting the oceans is not only about the natural marine environment. It also concerns the history, culture and traditions that are inextricably linked to the sea. Congratulations to all those working on this important project.”
A second key topic of our meeting was the strong alignment between the future agenda of Commissioner Kadis’ Cabinet and the activities of the UNESCO Chair on Digital Cultural Heritage. We explored the synergies between European and UNESCO priorities, particularly in advancing the Common European Data Space for Cultural Heritage Digital EU and the European collaborative cloud for cultural heritage (ECCCH) EU Science & Innovation, the Creative Europe new agenda “Europe For Culture & Culture For Europe”, and UNESCO’s Dive into Heritage and Dive into Intangible initiatives. The discussion also highlighted our work on the digital documentation and sustainable protection of underwater cultural heritage, contributing to policy development in support of UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 – Life Below Water UN SDG Action Campaign. Together, these initiatives reinforce the role of research, innovation, and digital transformation in safeguarding, sharing, and sustainably managing cultural heritage while strengthening Cyprus’ contribution to the European and international heritage landscape.
Thank you, Commissioner Kadis, for your visit, the inspiring exchange of ideas, and your continued support for research, innovation, and the digital future of Europe’s cultural heritage.
