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Welcome to the Guardians of Naxos, a research collaboration between three universities: Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences (Department of Communication, Media and Culture, Professor Nikos Leandros and Dr Panagiotis Kapos), Cyprus University of Technology (Media Arts & Design Research Lab, Associate Professor Doros Polydorou) and Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences (Department of Media, Professor Georg Struck and Professor Claudius Coenen).
The genesis of this project can be traced back to the passionate view of Professor Georg Struck from the University of Applied Sciences in Darmstadt. Professor Struck’s dream was not just to come up with a superficial solution to the challenges created by mass tourism, but to create a comprehensive, media-rich solution that would act as a beneficial addition to the sustainability of the island, while preserving the cultural identity of Naxos.
Other islands in Greece and other places around the world are facing the uncontrolled influx of tourists who leave in their wake an alienated landscape. What were once havens of unspoilt natural beauty and cultural authenticity have been transformed into bustling centres of commercialised leisure. The delicate balance of ecosystems is disrupted, local economies become overly dependent on tourism and indigenous cultures are often reduced to mere spectacles for the entertainment of visitors.
Naxos, with its enchanting landscapes, ancient ruins and living traditions, is a microcosm of this global dilemma. As tourism numbers increase, the island is at a crossroads, struggling with the challenge of maintaining its identity and integrity amidst the pressures of mass tourism. Having lived on the island for decades, Professor Struck recognised the urgency of the situation and envisioned a solution that went beyond traditional tourism management paradigms.
But Guardians of Naxos is more than just a digital platform – it is a testament to the power of collective action and interdisciplinary collaboration. The project embodies a holistic approach to sustainable development that integrates social, economic and environmental aspects. In Professor Struck’s words, Guardians of Naxos is not just a solution to a problem – it is the joy of creative possibility. In collaboration with Professor Nikos Leandros, Dr Panagiotis Kapos, Ass. Prof. Doros Polydorou and Prof. Georg Struck, we believe in the transformative potential of media solutions to uplift communities, preserve cultural heritage and safeguard the local environment for future generations.
As part of our collaborative effort, students come from different academic backgrounds, spanning several continents and disciplines. This project, which spans several semesters, has developed into a blend of ideas and innovation. Drawing on the diverse talents of students from Turkey, Germany, France, Germany, Iran, India, Pakistan, Russia, Greece, Cyprus, USA, Ukraine, India, Pakistan, Russia, Greece, Cyprus, USA, Ukraine and Colombia, Guardians of Naxos is a testament to the power of collaboration across borders and cultures.
Our members come from many academic fields. From applied sciences such as web development to film production, from storytelling to app development, from game development to sound and music production to more traditional academic activities such as anthropology, economics, sociology and business, this diverse skill set is the cornerstone of the Guardians of Naxos team, ensuring a multi-dimensional and enriching experience for all involved. Through this synthesis, Guardians of Naxos emerges as a holistic and interactive platform, offering travellers a window into the soul of Naxos, upholding the principles of sustainability and active community participation.
At the heart of Guardians of Naxos is a commitment to sustainability and community empowerment. Through compelling storytelling and technology, we aim to offer travellers a deeper connection with Naxos, its people and its historical past. By attempting to go off the beaten track and support local businesses, visitors become stewards of Naxos’ future, ensuring that its beauty and vitality will last for generations to come.
Join us as we embark on this transformative journey to rediscover the true soul of Naxos. Download our app, start a tour and let the magic of Guardians of Naxos take you to a world where culture, history and natural beauty coexist in harmony.
