United News of Bangladesh

Greece is hoping to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for Mount Olympus, the country's highest peak and the legendary home of the ancient Greek gods, by highlighting its unique blend of mythology, history, biodiversity and natural beauty. The 2,918-metre (9,573-foot) mountain, snow-covered for much of the year, has long been linked to ancient Greek mythology. According to legend, Zeus, the king of the gods, ruled from its highest peak after defeating the Titans. Greece's nomination for Mount Olympus as a mixed cultural and natural World Heritage site will be considered during the UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting in Busan, South Korea, running from Sunday to July 29. "Olympus is part of our everyday life," said Evagelos Geroliolios, mayor of Dion-Olympus municipality, based in the mountain town of Litochoro. "It represents mythology, history, biodiversity, stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage." Interest in the mountain may also increase with the release of Christopher Nolan's latest film, The Odyssey, based on Homer's epic, where Mount Olympus is portrayed as the home of Zeus and the Olympian gods who shape Odysseus' journey. Archaeological discoveries have added to the mountain's historical importance. Excavations on one of its lower peaks uncovered an ancient open-air sanctuary dating back to the Hellenistic era (323 B.C. to 30 B.C.). Historians believe it may be the sanctuary mentioned by the ancient writer Plutarch, who described religious processions and animal sacrifices dedicated to Zeus. Mount Olympus also remained an important religious site during the Christian era. It is home to what is believed to be the world's highest Orthodox Christian chapel, located on the Prophet Elias peak at 2,803 metres. The mountain also contains the remains of a monastery founded in 1542 and the Holy Cave of St. Dionysios, where a small spring is believed by many to have holy water. Beyond its cultural and religious importance, Mount Olympus is known for its rich wildlife and plant life, including many species found nowhere else. Local officials believe this combination of natural and cultural significance makes it a strong candidate for World Heritage recognition. "We want to preserve this place for future generations," Geroliolios said, adding that UNESCO recognition would be an achievement of global importance rather than just a local or national one. Greece first placed Mount Olympus on UNESCO's Tentative List in 2014, the required first step before submitting a formal nomination. The application has since undergone detailed evaluations by international heritage and conservation experts. However, the mountain's inclusion is not guaranteed. A draft agenda for the UNESCO meeting suggests the committee may ask Greece to provide additional information before making a final decision. Despite the uncertainty, local residents remain hopeful that the mountain's exceptional natural and cultural value will earn it a place on the prestigious list. Supporters also believe World Heritage status would strengthen efforts to protect the mountain, although it could also bring more visitors. Mountain guide Babis Marinidis, president of the Alpine Club of Litochoro, said increasing tourism could put additional pressure on the fragile ecosystem. "How many visitors can this mountain and its ecosystem really support?" he asked, noting that many tourists ignore restrictions such as bans on camping and swimming. Because of the growing number of visitors, local authorities are considering measures such as entry fees and visitor registration to better manage tourism. Marinidis said he had previously opposed such restrictions but now believes limits may be necessary. Mount Olympus remains a popular destination for hikers and climbers from around the world. Although reaching the summit does not require advanced climbing skills, rapidly changing weather and difficult terrain can make the mountain dangerous. On July 11, a 64-year-old Greek hiker died after collapsing on a trail. In May, rescue teams recovered the body of a 25-year-old Spanish climber who went missing while attempting to reach the summit through snowy conditions. First-time visitor Triantafyllos Giannospyros said careful planning and proper preparation are essential. "You need to respect the mountain and always put safety first," he said. Hotel owner Stavroula Vourou, whose business serves many hikers visiting Litochoro, shared the same view. "People come here to conquer the mountain," she said. "But if you respect Mount Olympus, it will respect you too."

Female empowerment, controversies about race, and designs that plunged to the depths of the seas then climbed Mount Olympus were among themes to grace Paris Couture Week on its drama-filled first day.