Haralambos Prasas, Greek researcher and artist

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 21: Greek researcher and artist Haralambos Prasas, who is known as ‘the lover of Kuwait’, considers Kuwait his second home, disclosing that he arrived in the country in 1977, where he began his work and formed strong relationships with Kuwaitis who appreciated his work and respected him as an individual. During his recent visit to Kuwait, Prasas stated that after four years of continuous residence in the country, he returned to Greece, but remained connected to Kuwait in spirit and thought. He later founded the Kuwait Center for History, Art, Culture and Humanity in Greece. He said it is the only center of its kind in the world, showcasing Kuwait’s history, heritage, people and authentic culture.

added the center houses more than 100 diverse items, including books on Kuwaiti history, photographs of prominent figures, Kuwaiti memorabilia, articles and heritage artifacts. He confirmed that everyone who visits the center is amazed by the presence of such a Kuwaiti cultural landmark 3,500 kilometers away. According to Prasas, the inspiration for the center originated from his profound love for Kuwait, and that his entire family – his wife and children – participated in its creation. He disclosed that “the center is open free of charge to all visitors. Journalists from Belgium, France and other European countries have visited it and featured it in their newspapers.”

He said the center is located on an island near Mykonos, one of the most popular tourist islands in Greece. He added that he continued to visit Kuwait twice a year after returning home to produce collections of commemorative medals documenting Kuwait’s history, such as the 20th and 25th Independence Anniversary Collections, and another series that depicts the journey of the late Amirs of Kuwait from 1917 to 1980. He also mentioned producing a similar collection on the history of the Kings of Saudi Arabia, indicating that the Embassy of the State of Kuwait in Athens follows and supports his work, and that all successive Kuwaiti ambassadors have visited the center and expressed their admiration for its contents. He asserted that “Kuwaitis have refined taste and great appreciation for art, culture and heritage.” He feels proud to have dedicated his efforts to highlighting the humane and civilized image of Kuwait to the world. He concluded “what I did came from the heart, because Kuwait is a country I love and I believe in its cultural and humanitarian message.”

By Fares Ghaleb Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff