04 Jan “Metropolitan Irineos Galanakis” Mansion
In April 2001, the Foundation completed the procedures for the purchase of the Vloom residence, a mansion of 990,1 m², which is located opposite the Eleftherios Venizelos residence in Halepa, Chania. The purchase was funded by the Greek Parliament.
The Technical Services of the National Bank of Greece carried out the restoration projects of the mansion free of charge.
Since 2005 and directly after its restoration, the heritage building has been accommodating the administrative and scientific services (library, archive, research and educational activities) of the Foundation. The premises of the Foundation remain in Venizelos residence which has been converted into a museum.
In a special ceremony, in August 2007, the building was named “Metropolitan Irineos Galanakis” Mansion, in the honour of the man who envisaged the creation of the Foundation and remained its lifelong chairman untill 2013.
Premises
The project for the “Enhancement and Restoration of the Vloom Mansion”, was part of the Regional O.P. for Crete 2000-2006 (Priority 4.2: Upgrading Urban Environment and Quality of Life-Cultural Sector) within the third Community Support Framework. The EU contribution by the ERDF covered 75% of public expenditure and 25% was covered by the Greek state. The Region of Crete was the funding authority.
The project budget reached the amount of 880.410,86 euros, which was sufficient only for construction works.
“Stavros Niarchos” Foundation
The Board of Directors of “Stavros Niarchos” Foundation made a significant donation to the National Foundation “Eleftherios K. Venizelos”, for the necessary research and administration equipment of the Foundation,.
By making use of this donation, our Foundation acquired the necessary equipment for the formation of a modern scientific centre (administrative services equipment, librarian and archival equipment, fully equipped conference hall).
Showing its appreciation to “Stavros Niarchos” Foundation, the Foundation “Eleftherios K. Venizelos” has named its conference hall, which is also used for educational activities, “Stavros S. Niarchos” and has placed a special plaque in a distinctive space. The “Stavros S. Niarchos” Foundation became a benefactor and an associate of the foundation.