The inaugural event of Telesilla Talks & Walks was held on the historic Aspida Hill in Argos, marking the beginning of a new cultural initiative rooted in memory, dialogue, and shared experience. Chosen for its profound historical and symbolic significance, Aspida offered the perfect setting for this first gathering. It was here, on ground once occupied by the sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena, that participants came together beneath the shadow of the castle to exchange thoughts, stories, and aspirations. In a place where traces of antiquity still resonate, the first steps of a contemporary journey were taken—one that seeks to connect heritage with the present and imagination with the future.
The event was honoured by the presence of Dianne Title de Laet and Steve de Laet, founders and directors of the Arete Fund, whose support and commitment to cultural, educational, and community-driven initiatives gave special significance to this opening gathering. Their presence highlighted the shared vision of fostering meaningful dialogue, creative exchange, and sustainable cultural development through collaboration and active participation.
More than simply a meeting, this opening event established the spirit and identity of Telesilla Talks & Walks: a living platform where people, places, and ideas encounter one another through thoughtful conversation and meaningful movement through landscapes of history and culture. Surrounded by the timeless atmosphere of Aspida, participants reflected on the value of public dialogue, collective memory, and the importance of reclaiming historical spaces as sites of community engagement and inspiration. The hill itself became both host and symbol—reminding all present that the future is strongest when built upon an awareness of the past.
Following the gathering on Aspida, the event continued at ElaGaia in Chouni, where the conversation deepened in the serenity of the natural landscape. There, in an environment defined by calm, beauty, and connection to the earth, participants explored the purpose, vision, and future direction of the programme. Ideas were exchanged with enthusiasm and generosity, while new possibilities for collaboration and creative action began to emerge.
This first event was not only the launch of a programme, but the opening of a wider journey. It laid the foundations for a dynamic cycle of talks, walks, encounters, and shared experiences that aims to bring people together through culture, reflection, and participation. Telesilla Talks & Walks begins with the belief that meaningful change starts when communities gather, listen, and walk forward together.
