At the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) 2025, the European Commission showcased its commitment to sustainable tourism by dedicating an entire pavilion to the theme. The exhibition placed Greek heritage at the forefront, blending displays of modern tourism infrastructure with immersive storytelling that traces Macedonia’s history from antiquity to the digital era.
The Polycentric Museum of Aigai serves as the pavilion’s centerpiece, complementing the EU-backed initiative “Virtual Museum Alexander the Great: From Aigai to the World.” This digital platform enables global audiences to explore archaeological treasures remotely through 3D models, panoramic tours, and interactive simulations. Both projects share a sustainability focus, using data on visitor flows and carbon footprints to design experiences that are culturally enriching but environmentally conscious.
Visitors also encountered highlights from the Vergina Museum, home to artifacts central to Macedonia’s royal legacy. Together, these cultural sites demonstrate Greece’s role as a destination where heritage and innovation converge. By offering both traditional visits and high-tech virtual encounters, Greece is broadening access while reducing the ecological impact of tourism.
The virtual museum exemplifies how cultural tourism is evolving. From home, users can examine mosaics, explore reconstructed tombs, and navigate ancient royal precincts. This approach transforms the museum experience into something participatory, reaching students, families, and lifelong learners worldwide.
Additionally, the European Commission’s pavilion highlights Greece’s tourist strategy for the future: balancing economic growth and preservation. By investing in digital heritage, reducing the environmental cost of travel, and promoting cultural assets through modern platforms, Greece is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism.
As global travel demand changes, Greece’s blend of ancient monuments, cutting-edge digital innovation, and sustainability principles ensures that its heritage remains accessible, relevant, and responsibly shared with generations to come.
Greece Showcases Digital Heritage & Sustainable Tourism at TIF 2025
