The Greek Culture Ministry has teamed up with Raycap S.A., an Athens-based telecommunications supplier, to set into motion the creation of Audiovisual Industry Center in the northeastern city of Drama. The new center is set to serve as the permanent home of the Drama International Short Film Festival (DISFF).
Culture Minister Lina Mendoni and Raycap Chairwoman Kallissa Apostolidis formalized the initiative through a donation agreement, under which Raycap commits to cover all necessary studies for the development of the center at the site of the former Andrikakis military camp.
As part of the donation deal, Raycap will cover the cost of restoration studies for four buildings within the camp and oversee the planning of the surrounding area. This contribution marks the first concrete step in transforming Drama into a key player in audiovisual production, both locally and nationally.
“With its rich cinematic tradition, Drama is poised to acquire a space that meets international standards for audiovisual arts,” said Minister Mendoni. “This will significantly strengthen not only local but also national film production.”
The minister went on to add that Raycap’s donation fast-tracks the project by unlocking the necessary public funding, setting the foundation for what she described as a landmark development for both Drama and Northern Greece.
“Once completed, the Andrikakis Camp will become a focal point for film and new technologies,” she added. “This is more than a cultural investment, it is a cornerstone for economic and creative growth in the region.”
The studies will be carried out under the guidance of the Directorate for the Protection and Restoration of Modern and Contemporary Monuments, ensuring both architectural integrity and cultural sensitivity.
Source: Tovima.com
