A Mythological Journey Through Xanthi: Day 1 of Work with Myths Workshop ✨
The first day of the Work with Myths workshop unfolded as a captivating journey through the heart of mythology and entrepreneurship. Representatives from FM-EPICHEIREIN (Greece 🇬🇷), Le Vie dei Tesori (Italy 🇮🇹), and MSK (Poland 🇵🇱) explored how ancient stories continue to inspire modern businesses. The day blended culture, creativity, and connection, offering a deep dive into the local businesses of Xanthi that draw inspiration from Greek mythology.
A Warm Start: Coffee Time at a Local Café ☕
The morning began with a warm meet-and-greet over coffee at a local café. Representatives exchanged thoughts about the upcoming activities, setting the tone for a day filled with inspiration and collaboration.
Legends by the Lake: Lake Vistonida 🌊
Their first stop was the serene Lake Vistonida, where the timeless tale of Hercules’ 8th labor came to life. With the expert guidance of Mrs. Anthi Panagiotou, Senior Expert in EU Funding at the Xanthi Chamber and Steering Committee Member of “The Phoenicians Route,” the group delved into the story of Hercules’ capture of King Diomedes’ man-eating horses. The tranquil beauty of the lake, complemented by the iconic Monastery of St. Nicholas in the background, added a magical backdrop to the storytelling, immersing everyone in the mythical atmosphere.
Uncovering History: Archaeological Museum of Avdira 🏺
The journey continued to the Archaeological Museum of Avdira, a captivating place where history and mythology come together. Located in this ancient city, the museum offers a glimpse into Avdira’s vibrant past, rich in myth and legend.
The collection spans from the 7th century BC to the 12th century AD, showcasing Avdira’s significance in the ancient Greek world. Notable exhibits include ancient coins that highlight the city’s financial power and trade connections, reflecting its influence across the Mediterranean. Equally fascinating is the museum’s collection of terracotta figurines of Greek deities, offering insight into the spiritual life of the city’s people.
The museum is a testament to how mythology shaped Avdira’s identity, leaving a lasting impact on Greek history. For the representatives, it was an inspiring link between the ancient world and modern interpretations of these timeless stories.
Wine Meets Mythology: Vourvoukelis Winery 🍷
Nestled in the historic land of Avdira, the Vourvoukeli Estate offered the representatives a unique fusion of mythology and winemaking. Known for its dedication to reviving the ancient vineyard traditions of the region, the winery draws deep inspiration from the area’s mythological heritage.
The wine “Avdiros” is named after the mythological figure Abderus, a companion of Hercules, who tragically met his end during the hero’s 8th labor. This tribute connects the winery to the tale of Hercules and the founding of ancient Abdera. The estate’s logo also features a griffin, a mythical creature tied to divine power and protection, further underscoring its commitment to celebrating the cultural roots of the region.
During the visit, we had the opportunity to taste the winery’s signature wine, “Pamidi.” According to the official website of Vourvoukeli Estate, this is the same wine that Odysseus used to get the Cyclops Polyphemus drunk, aiding in his daring escape. The connection to such a legendary story made the tasting experience even more memorable.
The visit to Vourvoukeli Winery was a testament to how mythology can seamlessly blend with modern craftsmanship, providing an inspiring stop on this mythological exploration. 🍇
Art in Shadows: House of Shadows 🌑
In the afternoon, the representatives stepped into the enchanting world of the House of Shadows, where Mr. Triantafyllos Vaitsis, a renowned Greek shadow artist, captivated the group with his unique creations. Originally an Environmental Engineer, Vaitsis transitioned to art in 2013, dedicating himself to the craft of shadow sculptures. His works, often inspired by Greek mythology, transform light and darkness into compelling narratives.
Vaitsis’s art has been exhibited both nationally and internationally, with pieces featured in private collections and commissioned by prominent companies and corporations. His dedication to shadow art has established him as a significant figure in contemporary Greek art, making the visit to the House of Shadows a standout moment of the day.
A Café with a Story: Hermes Café-Bar ☕✨
Later, the team was warmly welcomed by Giorgos Grammatopoulos, the owner of Hermes Café-Bar, a place where history seamlessly intertwines with hospitality. Giorgos shared the fascinating story behind this unique café, located in the heart of Xanthi, and guided the representatives through the beautifully preserved Turkish baths (hamams) nestled in its backyard. These historical treasures added an extra layer of charm, connecting the café to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Giorgos also recounted the significance of the café’s name, which pays homage to the Greek god Hermes. Originally a delicatessen offering delivery services, the name “Hermes” was chosen to symbolize speed, efficiency, and communication—qualities embodied by the messenger of the gods. Today, the café carries forward this legacy, blending mythology with modern hospitality, and creating a welcoming space that bridges the past and the present. The visit was a delightful reminder of how mythology can inspire both branding and ambiance, leaving the group enchanted.
Myths in the Mountains: Nemesis Hotel 🏔️
The day concluded at the Nemesis Hotel, a serene retreat in the Rodopi mountains where Macedonia and Thrace meet. Named after the goddess Nemesis, a symbol of justice and balance in Greek mythology, the hotel reflects her values of harmony and order. Its logo, a wheel, represents the cycle of life and the goddess’s role in ensuring balance and retribution. Surrounded by natural beauty, the hotel offers a tranquil escape, connecting guests to themes of mythology while providing unparalleled hospitality—a fitting end to a day filled with inspiration.
As the day drew to a close, the group paused to reflect on an enriching journey filled with captivating stories, cultural discoveries, and valuable connections. The evening provided a peaceful moment of rest, allowing everyone to recharge for the exciting second day ahead—where young participants would come together for the workshop, exploring the powerful fusion of mythology and entrepreneurship.
