The “Cavafia 2026” festival has made a dynamic return to Cairo after a seven-year hiatus, marking a significant revival of the cultural bonds between Greece and Egypt.
Greek Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni, who attended the re-established “Cavafy Awards”, highlighted the long history of the institution:
“Since 1983, the Cavafy Festival has enjoyed the material and moral support of the Ministry of Culture. Figures like the influential intellectual Kostis Moskof, during his tenure as Cultural Attaché in Cairo, were instrumental in establishing this festival as a global cultural landmark.”
Cavafia 2026: A celebration of literature and legacy
The ceremony, held at the Cairo Opera House, honored distinguished writers from both nations:
- From Egypt: Poet Iman Mersal and novelist Adel Esmat.
- From Greece: Poet and academic Nasos Vagenas and novelist Alexis Panselinos.
- Special Recognition: Professor Dimitris Daskalopoulos received a special award for his lifelong contribution to Cavafy studies and his role in organizing the festival since 1984.
Symbolic unveiling of the bust of Constantine Cavafy
The festivities began at the Greek Ambassadorial Residence with the unveiling of a bronze bust of Constantine Cavafy. Created by Egyptian sculptor Nathan Doss and donated by Antonis Kazamias, President of the Greek Centre of Cairo, the bust serves as a “act of high symbolism,” according to the Minister.
“Cavafy, a Greek of Egypt and a universal figure of letters, bridged his two homelands through his life and work,” she noted.
Related: Greek Poet Cavafy’s Home And Museum In Alexandria To Be Restored
