The Environment and Energy Ministry has announced a new subsidy scheme covering up to 50% of restoration costs for privately owned listed buildings.
Bankrolled through European Union resources, the “Diatiro” initiative is designed to help owners carry out structural reinforcement, facade repairs and – mandatorily – energy upgrades, based on approved technical studies.
Announcing the plan, Secretary General for Spatial Planning and Urban Environment Efthymis Bakogiannis said delays stemmed from negotiations with EU authorities.
“The initial idea was to provide incentives for all owners of listed buildings. It didn’t work,” he said, noting EU funding rules require energy upgrades. “In the end, the European Commission agreed to finance 50% of the costs … but with the mandatory condition of energy improvement.”
The program will launch this summer with a budget of €75 million, and the potential to double it if demand is strong. Officials cautioned that expanding funds depends on whether applicants can complete the required studies.
Owners and architects say costs and red tape have left many historic buildings abandoned. “We are not at five minutes to midnight, but past it,” said Giota Vrettakou, head of a national owners’ association, lamenting delays in addressing the issue.
Architects argue that restored buildings could also help mitigate housing shortages. “Their future is not as museum pieces or just hotels,” said Dimitris Xynomilakis.