Newsflash from Monday, 3 November 2025: The Minoan monument discovered on Papoura Hill near Heraklion has been named the Archaeological Discovery of the Year 2024 at the Mediterranean Exchange of Archaeological Tourism in Italy.
The Minoan monument unearthed on Papoura Hill, near the construction site of the new Heraklion airport, has earned international recognition, being named the Archaeological Discovery of the Year 2024 at the 27th Mediterranean Exchange of Archaeological Tourism in Paestum, Italy.
The prestigious “Palmyra Award” was presented to the Greek Ministry of Culture, honoring the significance of the find and its contribution to the understanding of Minoan civilization. The award was received on behalf of the ministry by Olympia Vikatou, General Director of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage.
In her remarks, Ms. Vikatou highlighted the exceptional archaeological importance of the site, emphasizing that the ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, is taking every measure to protect and showcase the discovery while ensuring the progress of the new airport project.
The Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, also participated in the event as a keynote speaker, presenting Greece’s initiatives in underwater archaeological tourism and the creation of the National Museum of Underwater Antiquities in Piraeus — a landmark project that will enhance the country’s cultural and educational landscape.
The recognition of Papoura Hill underscores Greece’s continued leadership in archaeological research and heritage preservation, reflecting the global importance of Crete’s ancient past.
Source: Nea Kriti
