Mountain Games International Symposium – Science – Health – Active Lives
Science, Health and Active Living
Mountain Games Cyprus 2026 opens in Platres with the Mountain Games International Symposium – Science – Health – Active Lives, held under the patronage of the Minister of Health. Under the scientific guidance of a committee chaired by Professor Ioannis Fatouros, the Symposium opens with a keynote address by Dr Yiannis Koutedakis, Scientific Coordinator of Mountain Games, entitled “Healthy, Active and Resilient Societies: Reconnecting Modern Lifestyles with Human Biology”.
Across four thematic panels, the scientific programme connects physical activity with public health and the prevention of non-communicable diseases; healthy lifestyles from childhood through to healthy ageing; inclusion, equality and mental wellbeing through sport; and the relationship between mountains, nature and human health in the context of climate resilience.
The scientific programme culminates in the Policy Forum “Sustainable, Inclusive and Resilient Communities: The Troodos Vision 2026–2030”, where the Symposium moves from scientific dialogue to public policy and the future of mountain communities. The day concludes with key findings and the presentation of the Mountain Games Declaration – Troodos 2026.
In parallel, the cultural journey of Mountain Games begins in Foini with Let’s Dance 4, an adapted workshop in music, movement and traditional dance for older people. In the evening, Pines & Echoes – Mountain Games Opening Night at Pendeli Resort in Platres welcomes the European delegations and event contributors with a musical performance by Nama Dama and the Mediterranean Welcome Dinner.
PROGRAMME AT A GLANCE
08:30–18:00
Mountain Games International Symposium
“Giorgos Seferis” Cultural Centre, Platres
16:00–17:30
Mountain Culture in Motion
Let’s Dance 4
Foini Regional Home for Older People
20:00–22:30 – by invitation only
Mountain Culture in Motion
Pines & Echoes – Mountain Games Opening Night
Welcome evening for the European delegations and event contributors
↳ 20:00–20:40 Nama Dama Performance
↳ 21:00 Mediterranean Welcome Dinner
Participation Information
Further details regarding the venue, keynote speakers, institutional supporters, registration process and participation guidelines will be announced with the final Symposium programme.