The most important reason for the creation of a private Cultural Organization is the willingness to invest in cultural projects. In a country like Greece and in a place like Crete, where the spiritual prowess has shown since the antiquity the sacred paths of the human civilization, the support in the unimpeded operation of the archaeological excavations and the promotion of their discoveries must be the highest cultural and national duty.

 

Rethymnon has the great fortune to connect the modern with the ancient. The scientific progress with the human "miracles" of the past. The modern University of Crete with the city of ancient Eleftherna. Through the initiative and painstaking work of the Professor of Archeology, University of Crete, Mr. Nikos Chr. Stabolidis and with the agreement and support of the respective authorities, it was possible to create the “Eleftherna Alsos” and the first Museum of Archaeological Site in Crete, the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna.
 

However, the precondition for their creation is the excavation research. Without it, nothing would have seen the light. The excavation is at the same time scientific work and education. It constitutes also an experience and a transfer of knowledge for the younger generation, from the archaeologists to workers. The site offers to those who come from abroad to work or to learn, a way to familiarize with the history, while at the same time provides a way for the locals to realize the historical value. 
 

Professor Stabolidis realized the extense of the value and importance of Eleftherna for the Cretan, Greek, Mediterranean region and the whole world even before he had glimpsed at the first traces of this ancient civilization, along with those that have been engaged for so many decades in this specific excavation. That's why he insisted: students and researchers from all over the world were invited to excavate in Eleftherna, within the educational frame of the excavation. Furthermore, land, premises and everything that was required was purchased for the needs of the whole project, with the help of donors and sponsors.   
 

Mr. Stabolidis made clear to everyone that Eleftherna is not only an investment in our history but also in the future. An investment with a character of continuity from the past to the present and the future. The ancient ancestors resting in the Necropolis of Standing Stone (Orthi Petra) and Homer are "conversing" with their descendants, the present inhabitants of Rethymnon and Crete, assembling the tiles of the future mosaic. All this constitutes a foundation for growth and progress.
 

The Daskalandonakis Group has been a devoted ally in all this effort. And it will continue to do so. Through the NDF organization, we aim at the more systematic support of the Museum and the Excavation of Eleftherna, the creation of educational programs and actions that contribute to the promotion of our cultural heritage and the forging of a promising developmental model that will connect culture with society and the economy.
 

With discretion and respect for the scientific work and the people and institutions that represent it, our aim is to contribute in the promotion of Eleftherna as a world destination and as a conduit for similar efforts throughout Greece.