Heritage message to the 6th European Summit of Regions and Cities held in Athens

Representatives of civil society organisations active in the field of cultural heritage and the wider field of culture, who gathered in Athens for the conference ‘Heritage First!’, sent a special message to the 6th European Summit of Regions and Cities, which took place in Athens on 7-8 March. They urged the participants to fully recognise the pivotal role that culture and cultural heritage play in the sustainable development strategies of Europe’s regions and cities.

Ioannis SGOUROS, Regional Councillor, Region of Attica. © European Union / Aurore Belot

This message highlights the multiple benefits that culture and cultural heritage generate for smart, sustainable and inclusive development, including the accumulation of social capital and the strengthening of social cohesion. It also stresses the contribution of cultural heritage to a stronger sense of belonging in a wider European community and a better mutual understanding and respect among Europeans.

The message was further sent by the Head of the Region of Attica to the Committee of the Regions on 27 March 2014.

The signatories of the message included Europa Nostra, Culture Action Europe, NEMO, Heritage Europe, FRH, ICOMOS, ICOM and other members of the European Heritage Alliance 3.3.