University of Cincinnati researchers set for June launch of cultural, environmental, economic rescue mission in Crete

A University of Cincinnati research team working to save Crete from the curse of massive tourism will expand its studies into the picturesque town of Arhanes this summer. The nine-member team begins work Thursday, June 28.

Each summer since 1999, UC planning professor Michael Romanos has led teams of cross-disciplinary scholars to Crete, the largest of the Greek islands and his native homeland. More than one-fourth of the 12 million tourists who visit Greece each year make Crete their destination. This popularity is threatening the island's beauty and environment.

In Arhanes this July, four UC faculty members, two former UC faculty members and three graduate students will work to establish priorities for further study in summer 2002. The interdisciplinary team will include:

Michael Romanos, professor of planning and coordinator of the UC Sustainable Development Group, College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP).
Brenda Scheer, associate professor of planning, DAAP.
Frank Wray, assistant professor of biology, Raymond Walters College.
Carla Chifos, assistant professor of planning, DAAP.
David Prosperi, former faculty member in planning at DAAP, now professor and associate dean at Florida Atlantic University.
Nick Chaparos, professor emeritus of design, DAAP.
Melissa McVay, graduate student in planning, DAAP.
Kate Fischer, graduate student in planning, DAAP.
Katerina Janeteas, doctoral student in classics (archaeology), Arts and Sciences.

Recently declared one of the European Union's model villages, Arhanes sits in the island's interior, about 18 kilometers outside the capital, Heraklion. Protected by archaeological laws that restrict development, Arhanes has recently focused on preserving and restoring its treasure of Neo-classical architecture. While the town does not attract the high volume of overnight tourists that most of the coastal towns do, it's becoming a popular day trip destination because of its natural beauty, archaeological sites, spectacular vineyards and grapes, and its "old world" charm.

UC's previous work in Crete has been supported by the City of Hersonissos, UC's Institute for Global Studies and Affairs, UC's Faculty Development Council, the School of Planning, and DAAP. This summer's project has support from the City of Arhanes and the City of Hersonissos. While some faculty will return to the United States July 25, Romanos, Chifos and three grad students will stay until the end of August. A larger team returns next summer.