Greece aims to leverage 'The Odyssey' film buzz for tourism boost

Greece's government is leveraging the global buzz surrounding a new film adaptation of Homer's epic "The Odyssey" to boost tourism. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis thanked director Christopher Nolan for his film's contribution to "stimulating global interest in ancient Greek culture." The film, partly shot in Greece, showcased iconic locations, prompting officials to seek ways to convert this renewed fascination into tourism revenue.

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stimulating global interest in ancient Greek culture

The Greek National Tourism Organization organized a press trip to Ithaca, Odysseus's mythical home island, resulting in a 162-page feature in Le Figaro titled "In the Footsteps of Odysseus." The Peloponnese region is developing a themed tourism program, "Odysseus' Route - Homer's Peloponnese," expected by November. Regional authorities are planning signage and a website to guide visitors, aiming to connect Homer's epics, the film's locations, and other Peloponnesian sites linked to the myths.

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these productions connect Greece's rich cultural heritage with contemporary creativity

"We want to capitalize on the hype that has been created," said Thanasis Michelongonas, deputy regional governor for tourism in the Peloponnese. "Expectations are probably higher than reality. Of course, that doesn't change the fact that we have received enormous media attention, worth millions, and it's up to us to make the most of it." Early indicators suggest a tourism boom, with easyJet holidays reporting an 18% rise in bookings to mainland and island Greece. Unforgettable Greece noted a 76% increase in bookings compared to last year and introduced 22 new themed itineraries connecting Athens, Corfu, and Ithaca. The film has also revived interest in Homer's classic works, boosting sales of his writings.

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We want to capitalize on the hype that has been created. Expectations are probably higher than reality. Of course, that doesn't change the fact that we have received enormous media attention, worth millions, and it's up to us to make the most of it.