From September 28 to 30, the historic Athens Festival venue will host the iMEdD International Journalism Forum 2023. But the venue itself tells a story as rich and diverse as the topics that will be discussed within its walls.
Once the bustling hub of the Tsaousoglou Office Furniture Factory, the building complex stands as a testament to Athens' industrial past. Its architecture, emblematic of the 1970s industrial design, speaks of a time when the city was undergoing rapid industrialization. The Tsaousoglou site comprises four expansive buildings or warehouses, each echoing the former era's architectural ethos. Recognizing their historical and architectural significance, the Ministry of Culture has bestowed upon them a listed status, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
The journey of the venue from an industrial site to a cultural epicenter is emblematic of the transformation of its surrounding area. Once under the stewardship of the National Bank of Greece, a portion of the site was repurposed for the Athens Festival, marking the beginning of its cultural renaissance.
Today, Peiraios Street, which once echoed with the sounds of machinery and industry, is undergoing a metamorphosis. As the main artery of this erstwhile industrial zone, it is rapidly emerging as a focal point of urban development. The street is now dotted with a plethora of cultural venues, making it a hotspot for art enthusiasts, historians, and urban explorers alike.
The iMEdD International Journalism Forum 2023, set against this backdrop, aspires to be more than just a congregation of journalists and media professionals. As attendees delve into discussions about the future of journalism, they will be surrounded by reminders of the city's past, its architectural heritage, and its promising future as a cultural hub.