In Memory of Konstantinos “Dino” Politis
It is with profound sadness that the Museology Research Laboratory of Ionian University mourns the loss of Dr Konstantinos “Dino” Politis, a distinguished archaeologist, researcher, long-standing collaborator and member of the Laboratory.
For more than four decades, Dino Politis devoted his work to the archaeology and cultural heritage of Ṣāfī and the wider Dead Sea region in Jordan. Through his archaeological research, excavations, publications and teaching, he made a significant contribution to the study and preservation of the region’s cultural heritage. His work extended beyond academic research, reflecting a deep commitment to the communities connected to the places and heritage he studied.
A particularly important part of his legacy is his contribution to the development of the Museum at the Lowest Place on Earth in Jordan, which he inspired and helped establish. His work in Ṣāfī demonstrated his belief that archaeology and cultural heritage should be closely connected with local communities and that heritage can become a means of participation, knowledge and shared responsibility.
Through the Hellenic Society for Near Eastern Studies, which he founded and chaired, he also contributed to strengthening scholarly and cultural links between Greece and Jordan. His long-standing collaborations with researchers and institutions, including his work with the Museology Research Laboratory, reflected his commitment to international academic cooperation and to the study and communication of cultural heritage.
For the members and collaborators of the Museology Research Laboratory, however, Dino will be remembered not only for his remarkable scholarly contribution, but also for his generosity, warmth, intellectual curiosity and genuine commitment to collaboration and friendship. His presence enriched the work of everyone who had the opportunity to work alongside him.In recognition of his longstanding contribution to archaeology and cultural heritage, Dr Konstantinos “Dino” Politis will be honoured posthumously by the Patriarchate of Jerusalem on 9 October 2026 in Amman, Jordan. His work will continue to live on through the archaeological knowledge he contributed, the heritage he helped preserve, the museum he helped create, the communities with which he worked, and the many people he inspired.
The Museology Research Laboratory extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
