The channel launched as ET3 on 14 December 1988, following the merger of state-owned TV and radio services into ERT, as a single entity. On 11 June 2013, the Greek coalition government abolished ERT and attempted to close the Thessaloniki studio, but the station's employees continued to unofficially transmit ET3 via the Internet as part of the ERT Open movement, protesting the closure of public television and producing citizen journalism. Exactly two years later, the following coalition government restored ERT as part of the counter-austerity measures: on the same day, ET3 adopted its current name and identity. The channel, under the new name ERT3, returned on all domestic television platforms.
Programming
Shows included:
Αlithina Senaria – Informative series, that takes the viewer around the country and the world, to meet people who excel in various topics and subjects. From a businessman on Wall Street to a shepherd in Pindos, from an acclaimed journalist to a hermit in Pilios, fascinating people with a story to tell. This program is now in its 9th season and has been the most watched show on ERT-3 since its inception. Hosted by Nikos Aslanidis.
Anichnevsis – A socio-political talking program regarding politics and science. Hosted by a journalist Pantelis Savvidis. Thursdays at 10:30 pm.
Deltio Eidiseon – Daily newscast, with national and international news as well as regional news with a focus on headlines from Northern Greece. Airs at 1:00pm, 3:00pm and 12:00am, with update at 7:00pm. Main newscast hosted by Olga Pharidis.
Diaspora – A series that focuses on bridging the gap between Greeks living abroad and Greece. It gives a voice to the homogeneity, to tell about their way of life, the problems they face, stories about their experiences and more. A show that will inform and entertain viewers the world around. Hosted by Xrusa Samou.
Κyriaki Sto Horio – It is a journey to different towns and villages across the country giving viewers a glimpse at life in rural Greece, the traditions, music, culture, history and problems that the residents face. An informative and entertaining program that looks at how those outside the city live. Hosted by Marni Hatziemmanouil, airs Sundays at 3:30pm.
Lavyrinthos – Weekly program that deals with Politics and features a discussion on issues of importance that are making headlines. Economic and policy debates as some of the topics discussed, with live reports and a focus on a regional issue affecting Thessaloniki and all of Northern Greece. Hosted by Alexandros Triantafillidis.
Ο Κosmos Ton Spor – It is a look at the top stories from the sports world. With news and analysis of the day's events, scores and highlights of matches, live reports and guests in the studio. A daily wrap up from the Greek sports scene as well as the rest of the world. Hosted by Tasos Stamboulis, airs Monday to Friday at 8:00pm.
