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Yuri Gagarin’s bust appeared in Greece

image 1 October 2016
A bronze bust of Yuri Gagarin appeared in the Greek city of Heraklion on the Crete Island on September 30, 2016.  The bust was given to Greek people by the «Dialogue of Cultures – United World» Fund with the support of the "TEZ TOUR Greece" company.

A festive atmosphere prevailed during the bust opening, which was accompanied by an orchestra performance. The opening ceremony attracted many honorable guests:

  • Mayor of Heraklion Vasilis Lambrinos;
  • Vice-Governor of Heraklion K. Euripidis;
  • Representative of the Russian Embassy Alexander Khomenko;
  • General Director of the "TEZ TOUR Greece" company Dimitris Haritidis;
  • Russian cosmonaut Oleg Skripochka;
  • Russian cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin;
  • Representative of the Fund «Dialogue of Cultures - United World» Vugar Aliyev and others.

"Installation of the monument to Yuri Gagarin, the most famous astronaut in the history of space exploration, has brought Iraklion and Russia closer," said Dimitris Haritidis, adding that he hopes the bust will be a place of interest for tourists from other countries.

“The first flight of Yuri Gagarin, undoubtedly, symbolizes the beginning of the space era. It is a landmark in the world’s history, and we are happy that Greece remembers and commemorates these remarkable events», said Oleg Skripochka.

Russian cosmonaut Alexey Ovchninin noted in his speech that the bust, opened in 2016, marks not only the 55th anniversary of the first manned flight into space but also the Russian-Greek friendship, since 2016 has been designated as cross-cultural year between Russia and Greece.

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