The event, titled “Byzantine Culture in Science, Technology, and Society,” was held with great success on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Cultural Center of the Holy Metropolis of Arta, serving as a shining example of the University of Ioannina’s outreach and meaningful connection with the local community.
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​The event highlighted how Byzantine heritage can be studied and promoted using the most modern tools of the digital age.
A central focus was the presentation of the innovative master’s program “Byzantine Studies through Artificial Intelligence and Immersive Technologies.”
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​Professor Chrysostomos Stylios discussed the use of digital media to highlight Byzantine Arta, linking cutting-edge technology with local cultural heritage.
​Assistant Professor Effie Sygkellou presented the vision for the new master’s program, which combines the humanities with artificial intelligence.
​Professor Christos Stavrakos spoke about the challenges and opportunities facing Byzantine studies in the 21st century.
​Archaeologist Fani Lytari approached Byzantine art as a subject of scientific research.
Journalist Thanos Houpis analyzed the presence of Byzantium in public discourse and the media.

​The hall was filled to capacity, confirming the public’s keen interest. The event was honored by the presence of:
​His Eminence Metropolitan Kallinikos of Arta, who emphasized the role of the Church in preserving memory.
​The Mayor of Arta, Christoforos Siafakas, and the Deputy Mayor for Culture, Angela Tsola, demonstrating the support of the local government.
Dimitrios Trapeziotis, President of the “Thucydides” Institute for Research and Study.
A large number of professors, undergraduate and graduate students, as well as doctoral candidates.
The event demonstrated that the knowledge generated at the University does not remain confined to the laboratories, but is returned to society, strengthening the cultural identity of Arta and opening new avenues for its promotion in the fields of tourism and science through innovation.