Forty one metal processing units comprised thefield of great technological advancements in mining and metallurgy. The best part of the buildings and their equipment still survives today thanks to an initiative undertaken by theNational Technical University of Athens (NTUA) to establish the Lavrion Technological and Cultural Park (LTCP).
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The goal was simple: in a place where so many technological advancements took place and innovation was successfully blended with high industrial aesthetics to realize a series of necessary and carefully studied interventions which would give birth to revived fields of research, education and culture. The LTCP is a hub aiming at the future, a place hosting research and entrepreneurial projects focused on state-of-the-art technologies. Since 1998, the Lavrion Technological and Cultural Park has hosted more than forty start-ups/companies, many of which continue to operate in sectors such as satellite and wireless telecommunications, nanotechnology and advanced materials, in addition to housing research programs run by the NTUA.
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In essence, this versatile park constitutes a pole of attraction for interdisciplinary scientific and business activities, open to researchers and entrepreneurs.
In other words, the pivotal idea was to preserve the spirit of inventiveness and innovation that guided the steps of the French Mining Company, which was so distinctively reflected upon theserobust industrial buildings. Echoing the promise for progress, the planning and architecture of this industrial complex was both preserved and enhanced. And it is now are newed promise made to and hopefully given by all partners and interested parties, which remains to be fulfilled in spaces renovated and cautiously constructed so as to host new entrepreneurial and educational activities.
Indeed, the Lavrion Technological and Cultural Park constitutes a unique museum of industrial history. The restoration works have preserved facilities of high technological and aesthetic value, which are worth visiting. A walk around the premises takes you back in time when the French Mining Company was in full bloom. It is a great opportunity to grasp the strong interconnection between the industrial activities with the life and the development of the town.
You can not only take a tour around the Park, but also attend the various cultural events hosted by the LTCP. Especially in the summertime, you may enjoy the theatrical performances andthe music concerts that are usually held there. Also, the LTPC is an ideal place for a family excursion: the Lavrion Environmental Education Centre and the Handicraft – Industrial Educational Museum implement programs addressed to children and young people.
Through experiential learning, children have the opportunity to become familiar with the production procedures, the tools and the machinery or meet with former employees who share their experience of working at the French Mining Company. In cooperation with the Archaeological Museum, workshops about ancient mining processes or minerals, occupations and clothing in antiquity, are also organized.
A visit to the LTPC can prove a pleasant and educational experience for the entire family.
