Chios is currently vibrating to the rhythm of the 4th THE CHIOS FESTIVAL, held from August 25 to September 7, transforming the island into a hub of culture, dialogue, and innovation. Among the program’s highlights were the events on August 29 and 30, 2025, at the historic Castelli mansion, where figures from politics and the arts met for two evenings of high symbolism.
Friday, August 29 – High-Level Dialogue and Opera Night
The program opened with a keynote by Apostolos Tzitzikostas, EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism.
Mr. Tzitzikostas discussed key European strategies for ports and shipping to be presented at year-end, emphasizing priorities such as competitiveness, security, digital and energy transition, and sustainability (cleaner fuels, connectivity, and cohesion).
He highlighted EU-funded projects in Chios, including:
The airport upgrade.
The creation of a Mastic R&D Industrial Center.
The construction of two kindergartens.
Improvements to the Chios General Hospital and road paving.
Infrastructure works in 32 small island ports and the creation of a “sea metro” system to solve connectivity issues.
The Commissioner noted two major European successes: the proposal to double infrastructure and transport budgets, and the inclusion of a dedicated tourism portfolio—a first for the EU. He described the EU as a “tourism superpower,” with Greece ranking among the top ten global and top five European destinations. He announced the first European Tourism Strategy for early 2026, focusing on workforce upskilling, digital transition for businesses, easier access to funding, and the integration of AI.
The evening continued with a discussion on “Politics and Culture.” * Professor Kevin Featherstone (LSE) addressed the question “Is there still a West today?”, focusing on Donald Trump’s strategy and its impact on Europe and the UK.
Loukas Tsoukalis (Sciences Po/NKUA) intervened with insights on transatlantic cooperation and the limits of Western cohesion, later analyzing whether the EU is meeting modern challenges.
Saturday, August 30 – “Scent of a Woman in the Fragrant Kampos”
The second day was dedicated to the female personality.
Key Speakers:
Eliza Vozemberg (MEP): Noted the North Aegean’s progress from being defined by the migration crisis to becoming an attractive tourist destination. She invited the Chios Festival to be presented in Brussels.
Eleonora Meleti (MEP): Focused on female solidarity. She argued that the historical subordination of women is largely due to a lack of mutual support and urged women to stand by one another.
George Arkadis (AMRO Bank): Discussed women’s pivotal role in shipping, from supporting seafarers to founding major maritime companies.
Eirini Veniami (Shipping Entrepreneur): Traced her family history and noted that while women’s roles in shipping are upgraded, pay and numerical gaps remain. She also highlighted the ethical use of AI as a benefit for the industry.
Cultural Highlights:
Professor Sofia Denissi and the acclaimed actress/director Mimi Denissi performed a moving reading of letters from historical figures Manto Mavrogenous and Domna Visvizi, showcasing the power of women in history.
The event reached its climax with a concert by the world-renowned composer and violinist Evanthia Reboutsika, who captivated the audience, receiving a standing ovation.
A Living Platform for Chios
Governor Kostas Moutzouris and his wife, Dimitra Moutzouris, welcomed the guests, emphasizing the festival’s mission. The historic Castelli mansion served as more than a backdrop; it was an active participant in the experience.
The events were successfully moderated by journalist Eirini Nikolopoulou.
THE CHIOS FESTIVAL is not merely a series of events; it is a platform for the international promotion of Chios, linking science, art, and intellect with local history.
The Festival is held under the auspices of UNESCO Greece, the Italian Embassy, and the Swiss Embassy.
PHOTO GALLERY
PHOTO GALLERY | THE CHIOS FESTIVAL | Events at Castelli | 29 and 30 August 2025
PHOTO GALLERY | THE CHIOS FESTIVAL | Event at Castelli | 30 August 2025
PHOTO GALLERY | THE CHIOS FESTIVAL | Event at Castelli | 29 August 2025
VIDEO
VIDEO | THE CHIOS FESTIVAL | Event at Castelli | 29 and 30 August 2025
VIDEO | THE CHIOS FESTIVAL | Concert by Evanthia Reboutsika at Castelli | 30 August 2025
VIDEO | THE CHIOS FESTIVAL | Events at Castelli | 30 August 2025
VIDEO | THE CHIOS FESTIVAL | Event at Castelli | 29 August 2025
