Conference “International Peace Marathon “Kostis Palamas”

PRESS RELEASE

Association of Fine Arts of Patras “Kostis Palamas”
Gallery Odeio – Center of Culture & Olympism “Kostis Palamas”
Marathon Runners and Walkers Association “Phaethon”
Achaean Cultural and Polytown “Marsyas”
with the support of Hellenic organizations from the USA and Canada

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SUBJECT: Invitation to a Conference for the organization of the International Peace Marathon “Kostis Palamas” and an International Festival of Culture – Arts – Sports – Tourism

The above organizations invite authorities, institutional representatives, cultural and sports organizations, businesses, and sponsors from Patras, Messolonghi, and Nafpaktos to an important conference aimed at planning and implementing the International Peace Marathon “Kostis Palamas”, as well as parallel events within an International Festival of Culture, Arts, Sports, and Tourism.

The conference will take place on Tuesday, May 5th, at 18:30, at the Gallery Odeio hall (P. P. Germanou 30, opposite the Ancient Odeon of Patras).

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PURPOSE OF THE CONFERENCE

This initiative aims to raise awareness among the Region, Municipalities, the business community, and all relevant bodies regarding the necessity of supporting and implementing an international institution with a strong cultural, athletic, and tourism impact.

The International Peace Marathon “Kostis Palamas” and the parallel festival aim to:

• promote the visibility and tourism development of Western Greece,
• enhance the international attractiveness of Patras, Messolonghi, and Nafpaktos,
• highlight Patras as an International City of the Olympic Hymn and the Torch Relay.

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OLYMPIC VALUES AND OBJECTIVES

The institution promotes the timeless values of Olympism:

• Peace and brotherhood among peoples
• Fair Play and the cultivation of excellence
• Formation of the “kalos kagathos” citizen according to Platonic tradition
• Promotion of Western Greece as the “Land of Olympia” and a cradle of cultural heritage

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SPEAKERS – PROGRAM

The event will be hosted and moderated by Effi Analiti and journalist Achilleas Papadionysiou.

The keynote speech will be delivered by Professor Dr. Theodoros Mallias, President of the Association of Fine Arts of Patras “Kostis Palamas” and Coordinator of the International Olympic Initiative, on the topic:
“International Peace Marathon Kostis Palamas: Olympic Ideals and Olympic Symbols”

A special bilingual audiovisual presentation will also be screened entitled:
“The Global and Timeless Symbols of Achaean Land”

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HONORARY DISTINCTIONS

Participating organizations will be awarded the historic commemorative album-book:
“Artists Create Culture”, in recognition of their contribution to the Olympic Spirit and Culture.

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On behalf of the organizers
Professor Dr. Theodoros Mallias