Dimitris Kouvdis, a 70-year-old potter from Lesbos, has earned UNESCO recognition for preserving ancient pottery-making techniques. He works in a seaside workshop near Mandamados, a former pottery hub, where his family continues traditional methods.
They make pottery using clay from local soil and a traditional kiln fueled by olive pits. Each piece is painted with natural lime, preserving an old-world process. Kouvdis is among the last Mediterranean potters to use these methods.
Kouvdis expressed pride in the UNESCO honor, noting that mechanized presses can produce pottery much faster than traditional methods. Despite this, he is committed to maintaining the craft, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of handmade pottery.
The UNESCO recognition highlights Kouvdis’ efforts to safeguard a cultural tradition in a world dominated by industrial production. His work ensures the continuation of a valuable legacy on Lesbos.