UNESCO Chair on Threats to Cultural Heritage at the Corfu Literary Festival 2023

Debating on Antiquities and on a forward looking approach of the Humanity's relationship to the World

The event was co-organized on 23rd September 2023 by the UNESCO Chair on Threats to Cultural Heritage (TCHER) at the Ionian University and Corfu Literary Festival.  TCHER is deeply committed to fostering dialogue and understanding about the preservation and significance of our global heritage for the generations to come and has been at the forefront of addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing our cultural heritage today. Cultural Heritage can be nothing less than a platform for future making, for addressing threats and challenges like the climate change and the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. And for this mission to be accomplished we need foresight, anticipation and skills.

The first part of the event revolved around a question that has intrigued humanity for centuries: "Why do certain ancient artifacts and treasures continue to resonate with us?" was moderated by Dr. Bettany Hughes, a renowned historian, archaeologist, broadcaster, and writer whose work has illuminated the annals of history for many, joined in conversation by the author, screenwriter, and historian Alex von Tunzleman, whose writings have delved deep into the intricacies of historical events and personalities, and accompanyied by the esteemed archaeologist Elena Giagoudi, whose on-ground experiences bring a unique perspective to the discussion.

In the second part, Professor Peter Frankopan, an Oxford historian whose work has reshaped our understanding of global history engaged in conversation by the biologist Dr. Adam Rutherford. As our world grapples with unprecedented challenges  Professor Frankopan's exploration of humanity's historical relationship with the world offers a timely reflection. Professor Frankopan's insightful analyses are with their forward-looking approach, forging a more interconnected and harmonious world.