“Ifestio Anemotias” S.C.E. in collaboration with the Skalochori Cultural – Environmental Association – “DRYS” and with the Anemotia Viticulture Association – “o Kampos” and with the contribution of the Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest organize:
Drystone Experiential Workshop for the construction of new vineyard terraces in Anemotia, Lesvos on 19-21 November 2021 in the framework of the project: “Restoration of degraded soil through its transformation into an organic vineyard for the preservation of indigenous varieties” – Funding: Environment & Innovative Actions 2021: Innovative actions with the citizens ”, ΠΥ: 50.000 €, Beneficiary: IFESTIO ANEMOTIAS S.C.E.
On the occasion of the formation of a sloping, degraded pasture, for its transformation into an organic vineyard with indigenous varieties, “IFESTIO ANEMOTIAS” S.C.E. organizes a three-day experiential drystone workshop in Anemotia, Lesvos.
Until about 50 years ago, terraces were the special element that supported the functionality of the island environment and primary production, enhancing water potential, reducing soil erosion and promoting local biodiversity. This is a special technical configuration of the sloping soils, which defined the man-made and natural environment of the islands (stone structures, biodiversity, cultivation methods, food choices, work specialization, customs, etc.).
The art of drystone, ie the construction with stones without any binder (dry) of the steps, has been registered in the National Index of Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2015, while in 2018 it was also registered in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Mankind (UNESCO, 2003 ). This registration recognizes and confirms the enormous ecological, cultural, geological and economic value of drystone in Greece and beyond.
The purpose of the workshop, which will be carried out as part of the maintenance and repair of existing terraces and the creation of new ones, is to raise the awareness of the participants and the island’s citizens about the importance of preserving the art of drystone and its craftsmen and its teaching – to younger professionals and amateurs interested.