One of Greece’s most iconic beaches to be extended to save famous shipwreck

Greek authorities have announced plans to extend one of the country’s most famous beaches in a bid to protect an eroding shipwreck.

Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis confirmed initiatives to protect, restore, and manage the Zante (Zakynthos) shipwreck at Navagio beach during his weekly review on Sunday.

Plans include a 30-metre extension of the shore towards the sea using 45,000 cubic metres of gravel to distance the Panagiotis ship’s deteriorating hull from wave action, reported Greek news outlet Ekathimerini.

The MV Panagiotis ship ran aground in October 1980 and quickly became a popular tourist destination in Zante.

The site is currently closed to the public until at least 31 October due to safety concerns over landslides following inspections by the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation (OASP).

The timeline for the changes to stabilise the Navagio beach shoreline is yet to be announced.

The Municipality of Zakynthos said that restoration of the coast and preservation of the Panagiotis ship marks a “new period of responsibility, cooperation and substantial interventions for the future of the most important natural monument of Zakynthos”.

Previously, the management of the shipwreck was decided by the Greek government.

The municipality, in collaboration with the National Technical University of Athens, will now proceed with a plan to protect the beach’s natural environment.

Mayor of Zakynthos, Giorgos Stasinopoulos, said: “The shipwreck is not only the top tourist attraction of Zakynthos. It is a global symbol of our island, a unique natural and cultural asset that we must protect and deliver safely and upgraded to future generations.

“The Municipality of Zakynthos is ready to respond to this great challenge, with responsibility, determination and efficiency. We continue with a plan, cooperation and vision for a Zakynthos that successfully manages its comparative advantages and creates the conditions for sustainable development for the benefit of all citizens.”

Read more: Timbers from 17th-century shipwreck wash up on beach after Storm Chandra