THE MARBLES AND STONES OF MANI
HISTORY, QUARRIES AND OUTCROPS, PETROGRAPHIK AND ISOTOPIC CHARACTERIZATION. PROSPECTS FOR THE FUTURE - ΠΕΤΡΟΣ ΤΖΕΦΕΡΗΣ

The marbles of Mani are an integral part of the region's wild and untamed nature, as well as its rich architectural and cultural heritage. Despite the fact that they dominated the markets of the ancient world and were highly valued for their use in decorative monuments, they are practically not extracted in any corner of the beguiling Maniate landscape today. Sadly, the ancient quarry sites that were once bustling with activity remain largely undocumented and overlooked. Similarly, the works of art and artifacts crafted from Mani marble have not received the attention they deserve, leading to uncertainty surrounding their historical significance and provenance. As a result, the marbles of Mani face a gradual decline, taking with them the legacy of the Maniate stone-the very essence of Mani and its people. This book endeavors to shed light on the history and scientific documentation of Mani marbles and stones, using them as a catalyst to address issues pertaining to Greek marble provenance determination. Through the "Mani marble renaissance" proposal, it aims to emphasize the imperative need for safeguarding and promoting the ancient extraction sites of the Greek marbles, where everything started! Moreover, it advocates for their integration into a novel selective production model for Mani's marbles that can be expanded to all historic marbles throughout the country. A model that grants paramount importance to the values sculpted over time alongside the stones of ancient Greece and Mani in particular. Profound values that have deeply permeated human existence and touched its sensitive chords, drawing it into the realm of creation, aesthetics, and symmetry. (From the publisher)