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for the Minoan civilisation, where that and scents of my grandfather's village.
The sublime Cretan
essence lies in Elli fire stems from, and what her future in A small village that seemed to hide a
Lyraraki's every the art and fashion industries holds. treasure for me. As I explored my Cretan
design, from her What is your connection to Crete? roots, I discovered that the name of my
Olympic necklace I was born in Athens but chose to live in village, Alagni, came from Alagonia. Leg-
and sandals to her Crete and make it the centre of my life, end has it that Alagonia was a nymph,
clothes, defined by Elli Lyraraki found inspiration
vibrant colours and in her Cretan roots. Her works the source and foundation of my inspi- the daughter of Zeus and Europa. So,
textures. of art and fashion resonate ration and creativity. All my childhood when I presented the Minoan Collection
with that wondrous journey of memories are infused with the energy in Paris in 2019, it was the perfect name
self-discovery. to represent me and my work, drawn
from an amazing coincidence. Thou-
sands of years after ancient Alagonia,
the descendant of Europa, lived in myth,
I felt like I was following in her Minoan
footsteps, but in reverse. From Crete,
that is, a small corner at the edge of Eu-
rope, towards the heart of Europe and
fashion. Thus, the Minoan Steps were
created. In my effort to share my pas-
sion for Cretan culture, I created not only
the Minoan Steps collection but also the
company Cretan Minology. My goal is
to preserve and promote the traditional
arts and techniques of Crete, because
my research so far has led me to the
conclusion that nothing can be lost if it’s
well-preserved in the hearts of people.
What part of Crete's heritage moves you?
Its greatness. I could never imagine how
generous Crete would be to me, how it
would change my life and make me a
better person. It opened great new av-
enues for me. It honoured me and con-
tinues to do so in a touching way. When
my family and I permanently moved to
Crete, I didn't really know the place. So,
I decided to embark on an inner journey
and discover the artist within me in this
blessed place. Crete has a vast culture.
Inspiration is everywhere. Here I discov-
CRETAN ART are rooted in her love for Crete and its ered joy and happiness in simple things.
Elli Lyraraki’s efforts
Life in nature, a peaceful existence with
folklore, from its mythology to its artistry my family, and the luxury of solitude and
and nature. Her illustrious career in fash- isolation. In short, I found myself and dis-
ECHOES ion includes milestones related to Paris covered what I wanted to be and do in
Fashion Week and the Olympics, but
my life. A New-Minoan Aesthetic Artist,
she never forgets her journey’s humble the Financial Times called me.
yet magical beginnings exploring Crete’s What is your vision for this place?
Exclusive interview with Elli Lyraraki. The prestigious
hidden gems. They served as inspira- I have a vision for Crete: to discuss the is-
designer promotes Crete by connecting her creations tion and continue to adorn each of her land’s hidden history and culture through
artworks, whether it’s a shoe, jewel, or my art and inspiration. My goal is for
with the island's ancient customs and Minoan culture. sculpture. Learn more about her passion my work to always advocate for Cretan

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