AND THERE WAS LIGHT – ARCADIA (2026)
A Documentary by Despoina Sotiropoulou
A cinematic journey into the heart of Arcadia, where history, nature, faith and human memory become one.
A Journey Through the Soul of Arcadia
"And There Was Light – ARCADIA" is a feature documentary that explores the history, landscapes and living memory of one of Greece's most remarkable regions.
Journalist, author and filmmaker Despoina Sotiropoulou embarks on an intimate journey across Arcadia, discovering places where nature, faith, history and human stories have shaped a unique cultural identity that continues to inspire generations.
Combining journalistic research with cinematic storytelling, the documentary captures voices, traditions and personal memories that risk disappearing with time, preserving them for future generations.
Official Trailer
Experience the first look at And There Was Light – ARCADIA, an emotional cinematic journey through the landscapes, people and history of Arcadia.
Documentary Information
Title
And There Was Light – ARCADIA
Original Title
Και Εγένετο Φως – ΑΡΚΑΔΙΑ
Director
Despoina Sotiropoulou
Writer
Despoina Sotiropoulou
Production Company
ds productions
Genre
Feature Documentary
Country of Production
Greece
Language
Greek
Release Year
2026
Television Premiere
COSMOTE HISTORY (Coming Soon)
Synopsis
Arcadia has long been associated with beauty, harmony and an ideal connection between humanity and nature. Yet behind its breathtaking mountains, forests and historic villages lies a deeper story—one of resilience, memory, faith and identity.
In And There Was Light – ARCADIA, journalist and filmmaker Despoina Sotiropoulou travels throughout the region, meeting local communities, historians, artists, clergy and residents whose lives are deeply connected to Arcadia's rich cultural heritage.
Through intimate conversations, archival research and stunning cinematography, the documentary uncovers forgotten stories, local traditions and personal testimonies that reveal a living history often overlooked by modern society.
Rather than simply documenting a place, the film explores the emotional relationship between people and the land they call home. It tells the stories of those who remained, those who left and those who continue to preserve Arcadia's traditions for future generations.
Rich with breathtaking landscapes, authentic voices and powerful visual storytelling, And There Was Light – ARCADIA offers audiences a thoughtful exploration of history, identity and belonging.
It is ultimately a celebration of memory, culture and the enduring light that continues to illuminate the heart of Arcadia.
Director's Note
"Every place has stories waiting to be heard. Arcadia is much more than a geographical region—it is a living landscape where history, faith, tradition and human memory continue to shape everyday life.
Throughout this journey I met remarkable people whose experiences, memories and love for their homeland became the heart of this documentary. My goal was not only to document Arcadia's extraordinary beauty, but also to preserve voices and traditions that deserve to be remembered.
I hope this film encourages audiences to discover Arcadia through new eyes and reminds us all that our cultural heritage lives on through the people who continue to protect it."
Despoina Sotiropoulou
Director
Behind the Documentary
Explore the making of And There Was Light – ARCADIA through exclusive interviews, conversations and behind-the-scenes content.
Hear from director Despoina Sotiropoulou as she shares the inspiration, research and creative vision behind the documentary, along with insights from the people whose stories helped shape the film.
The Journey Begins
The documentary's journey across Arcadia begins
This summer, "And There Was Light – ARCADIA" begins its public journey with a series of special open-air screenings across some of Arcadia's most historic and picturesque villages.
Audiences will have the opportunity to experience the documentary in the very places that inspired its creation, celebrating the region's history, cultural heritage and enduring spirit under the Arcadian sky.
The Premiere
The journey … began in Leontari
Leontari, Arcadia — 7 August 2026
The journey of “And There Was Light – ARCADIA” began in Leontari, Arcadia, with its first open-air screening under the Arcadian summer sky.
Surrounded by the landscape and the people that inspired the documentary, the evening brought together residents, visitors and friends of Arcadia for a special celebration of local history, memory and cultural heritage.
Watch highlights from the premiere in Leontari and experience some of the moments that marked the beginning of the documentary’s journey across Arcadia.
Screening Schedule
7 August 2026
Leontari, Arcadia • 21:00
With the support of the Municipality of Megalopolis.
9 August 2026
Stemnitsa, Arcadia • 21:00
With the support of the Stemnitsa Cultural Association.
10 August 2026
Theoktisto, Arcadia • 21:00
Presented as part of the festival organised by the Theoktisto Cultural Association.
11 August 2026
Vyziki, Arcadia • 21:00
With the support of the Vyziki Cultural Association.
12 August 2026
Nymfasia, Arcadia • 21:00
With the support of the Nymfasia Cultural Association.
Admission to all screenings is free.
Coming Soon on COSMOTE HISTORY
Following its premiere screening tour across Arcadia, "And There Was Light – ARCADIA" will make its television premiere on COSMOTE HISTORY.
The broadcast date and time will be announced soon.
Stay tuned for further updates.
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