From Byzantine Weaving to Maritime History: The heritage of Geraki and Neapolis Voion on Display

Echoes of our past that continue to resonate today!

We are thrilled that Geraki is once again a part of this year's European Cultural Heritage Days, offering an opportunity to showcase the village's rich cultural heritage to the local community, especially the younger generation.

The European Cultural Heritage Days are celebrated across Europe during the final weekend of September. Their primary goal is to raise awareness about preserving and promoting national and shared European cultural heritage. This year's theme, "Cultural Heritage and Tradition: Echoes from Yesterday in Today," will be celebrated through various events at archaeological sites and museums, all of which will offer free admission during the festivities.

The Ephorate of Antiquities of Laconia is actively participating in this year's European Cultural Heritage Days and has organized events for both students and the general public. These events will take place at the Archaeological Museum of Neapolis Voion and the archaeological site of Geraki Castle.

Here are the details of the events:

September 20th at the Archaeological Museum of Neapolis Voion (10:00 - 13:00):

An exhibition titled "Ships and Seafaring on the Coasts of Malea and Epidaurus Limera from Prehistoric Times to the 20th Century" will be hosted. Additionally, guided tours of the museum's permanent exhibition will be available for primary school students (4th, 5th, and 6th grade). These tours will focus on topics such as maritime trade, population movements through maritime routes, and fishing.

September 23rd at the Archaeological Site of Geraki Castle (starting at 17:00):

An event called "Play the Loom, Thunder..." will be held. In collaboration with the Directorate of Modern Cultural Heritage and with the support of the Cultural Association of Geraki and the Philanthropic Society of Ladies and Misses of Geraki, an awareness and familiarization event will be organized for the local community and educators of Laconia. This event will highlight Geraki's art of weaving, a significant part of the town's culture since Byzantine times and officially recognized as part of Greece's Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2019. Visitors will gain insight into the art of weaving on upright looms and other elements that constitute Geraki's rich intangible cultural heritage through informational tours, presentations on the educational work of the Directorate and UNESCO related to integrating intangible cultural heritage into education, as well as musical and dance performances.

The European Cultural Heritage Days offer a splendid opportunity for Laconia to celebrate its cultural heritage and traditions. The Ephorate of Antiquities of Laconia's participation in these events, with a focus on maritime history and the art of weaving, promises to be both informative and engaging. It's a wonderful chance to explore the echoes of the past in the vibrant present of Laconia.

The Dark Days of 1825: Ibrahim Pasha's Rampage in Laconia and Vrontamas' Stand

Holocaust of the Palaiomonástiro on 15 September 1825: 

Remembering the Fight for Greek Freedom and National Independence

In the year 1825, the region once known as Morea, and today recognised as the Peloponnese, bore witness to a profoundly distressing chapter in its history. The catalyst for this ordeal unfolded on August 30th when Egyptian army general Ibrahim Pasha launched a campaign marked by devastation, terror, and chaos throughout Morea, the ancient Peloponnese. This grim expedition left villages in ruins, frightened communities seeking refuge in the mountains, and Greek fighters under the leadership of Theodoros Kolokotronis engaged in a determined struggle.

However, the most sombre day of all arrived on September 15, 1825, forever etched into memory as the Holocaust of the Palaiomonástiro in Vrontamas. It was on this day that 400 courageous Vrontamites boldly declared "OXI" (no) in defiance of Ibrahim's assault, just seven kilometres from Geraki. What followed was a relentless and brutal response from the Ottomans, an event that would come to symbolise Greece's enduring struggle for independence and freedom.

Ibrahim Pasha's Campaign Begins (August 30, 1825) 

The grim campaign commenced as General Ibrahim Pasha and his forces departed from their fortified camp in Tripolitsa. Their mission was to sow chaos throughout Morea, with a particular focus on the rugged Parnon Mountains. Their initial target was Trinisa, situated at the estuary of the Evrotas River where it flows into the Laconian Gulf. Local resistance crumbled, and the nearby villages in the Elos plain fell victim to looting and arson. Frightened residents sought refuge in the Parnon Mountains, notably in the densely wooded Zarakas region.

Gathering of Greek Resistance (September 5, 1825)

As Ibrahim's troops established a camp roughly 30 kilometres from Trinisa, near Molaoi, Theodoros Kolokotronis, a prominent Greek leader, descended from the mountains near Kosmas of Kynouria. Their mission was to defend the southern flank, forming a defensive line extending from Kourkoúla to Gkagkaniá, Toúrla, and Koulochéra. Meanwhile, Greek fighters, under the command of notable revolutionaries like Giannakis Notaras, gathered around Agios Petros.
Ibrahim's Onslaught Continues (September 11, 1825)

Ibrahim Pasha's relentless march led him to Niata and Apidia as he moved toward the Kounoupochoria, a cluster of villages in southern Parnon. On September 11, skirmishes erupted near Mariorema, where Greek fighters, led by Staikos Staikopoulos, confronted the enemy. The Zacharopoulos brothers guarded the Kosmas pass, which was essential for controlling access to the Kynouria region.

On the same day, clashes occurred in the wooded slopes of Elatias above Karitsa, resulting in minor casualties on both sides. Local legends recounted a fierce battle between Ibrahim's troops and Kolokotronis' fighters, with the Ottomans reportedly burying their fallen in the area, now known as "Mnimata" or Graves. Panic-stricken villagers of Karitsa sought refuge in the dense forest of Tsouka, from where they witnessed the devastation of their homes.

Torching of Geraki (September 12, 1825)

On September 12, 1825, Ibrahim's forces descended upon Geraki, setting the town ablaze and causing hundreds of casualties. Surrounding olive groves and scrubland also went up in flames. Many locals fled to the mountains, while women and children sought refuge in Sormpanos, hoping to escape to the islands of Spetses and Hydra. Regrettably, not all would reach safety.

In eastern Laconia, distressed folk sought shelter in the old castle of Kyparissi, situated in an isolated and mountainous area known as "Koulia." The monks of the small monastery of Agios Theodoros in Chararakas abandoned their abode upon hearing of Ibrahim's approach.

Holocaust of the Palaiomonástiro in Vrontamas (September 15, 1825)

September 15, 1825, stands as a day of infamy, just seven kilometres from Geraki. On this day, 400 villagers of Vrontamas, resolute and defiant, thundered "OXI" in response to Ibrahim's assault. The Ottoman retaliation was swift and merciless, involving fire and sulphur. This tragic confrontation would forever symbolize the indomitable spirit of Greece's struggle for independence.

The women and children of Vrontamas had sought refuge in Palaiomonástiro, a cave church adorned with rare frescoes dating back to 1201 AD. Led by the village priest Papa-Dimitris Papadimitriou and local chieftain Giannakis Karampas, their spirit and determination remained unbroken.

Ibrahim's troops scoured the area for information but were met with silence. Eventually, they discovered the hidden refuge of 300 to 400 Vrontamites, a monastery perched atop an inaccessible cliff face. The siege began, with relentless attacks. From within the monastery, the defiant villagers sang and chanted, further infuriating Ibrahim. Recognising a weakness in the monastery's roof, the Ottomans ordered it blasted. "Fire and sulphur!" cried the Ottomans, and thus, the holocaust of Palaiomonástiro became an indelible testament to the struggle for Greek independence.

Conclusion

It is incumbent upon us today to ensure that the memory of these dark days never fades. We owe it to our forebears and their unrelenting fight for a free and independent homeland.

Let the memory of the martyrs and fighters of Palaiomonástiro in Vrontamas endure for eternity, a testament to the unwavering spirit of those who fought for the independence and freedom of Greece.

 

https://www.facebook.com/dimotikiagoratislakonias/videos/293252273570890

 

A Pan-Laconian Society Founding Member Stavroula Pandos Turns 99!

"Her 'human wealth' — three children, eight grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren."
- Stavroula Pandos' Family Legacy

 

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, there are moments of pure joy and inspiration that remind us of the beauty of life. Today, as we celebrate the 99th birthday of our beloved Stavroula Pandos, we are reminded that age is but a number, and the human spirit can remain as vibrant and creative as ever.

Stavroula Pandos, née Laganas, is a living legend within the Pan-Laconian Society, a popular poet, and one of our cherished founding members. Born sometime in 1924, no one knows exactly when, the actual birthdate is shrouded in uncertainty; such were the recordkeeping practices of that era. In a delightful twist of tradition however, she chooses to celebrate her birthday on September 14, aligning it with her nameday. Hailing from the picturesque village of Kastania (present-day Kastoreio), nestled at the base of the legendary Taygetos Mountains, Stavroula truly embodies the spirit and essence of Laconia.

Stavroula's "human wealth"

As the youngest of seven children born to Giorgis and Giannoula Laganas, Stavroula faced the challenges of her time with determination and resilience. In an era when educational opportunities for village children were scarce, more so for young girls, she defied the odds and completed her primary education during the tumultuous years of the Great Depression.

Stavroula had a strong desire for knowledge, but she couldn't pursue higher education due to the challenging circumstances her family and many others in the countryside were facing. However, her life took a positive turn when, at the age of 26, she married Evangelos Pandos, who was both her true love and a fellow villager. Their wedding, celebrated on March 25, 1951, during Kastania's national day festivities, was a joyful occasion highlighted by the Dance of Isaiah.

Thirty months later, Stavroula, Evangelos, and their 19-month-old daughter embarked on a life-changing journey to Australia. They sailed aboard the migrant ship Skaubryn, bidding farewell to their beloved Kastania on October 26, 1953, the Feast Day of Agios Dimitrios. In Adelaide, they lovingly raised three children: Charikleia, Ioanna, and Alekos.

The Pandos family holds a special place in the heart of the Pan-Laconian Society of SA "Leonidas." Evangelos dedicated years of service to the society, including a term as its president, considering it a representative body for all South Australians of Lakonian descent.

Though Evangelos sadly passed away in 2008, Stavroula, at the age of 99, continues to exemplify the family's unwavering commitment to the club. Despite her health challenges, when well enough she eagerly participates in Pan-Laconian functions, captivating audiences with her epic poems filled with wisdom, wit, and inspiration. Yet, what brings her the greatest joy is what she calls her "human wealth" — three children, eight grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

Chronia Polla, Stavroula! Happy 99th Birthday, and may your days be filled with happiness and inspiration. May you long continue to grace our gatherings with your wisdom and poetic words, reminding us that age is no obstacle to a life well-lived.

Adelaide's Greek Heritage: A Pictorial Odyssey Through Time

"An ever-expanding photo album that will grow with your contributions and those of many community members."

In every thriving community, memories weave a precious tapestry that connects the past and the present. Today, we embark on an extraordinary journey back to the Adelaide Greek Community's yesteryears. We're excited to introduce our latest project – an ever-expanding photo album that will grow with your contributions and those of many community members, illuminating the rich history of our community.

The first photo in the album, generously shared by John Chronopoulos, captures a moment from the 1970s when the Premier of South Australia, Don Dunstan, shared a drink with members of the Greek community. John has also shared several other undated photographs, each brimming with historical significance, though lacking captions. These snapshots provide glimpses into a world where dreams were pursued, friendships flourished, and traditions thrived. While these photos may not exclusively feature Laconians, they represent a collective heritage that binds us together. They are mosaic fragments portraying the broader journey of the Greek community, filled with triumphs and tribulations.

Through these images, we can revisit the moments that have shaped our identity. Our mission is to preserve and share this invaluable treasure trove with you. We proudly present "Adelaide's Greek Heritage: A Pictorial Odyssey Through Time". It's a labour of love, a tribute to our roots, and an invitation to explore the stories within each frame. However, our journey is ongoing, and we invite you, our readers, to join us. We seek your expertise, memories, and insights to identify faces and describe events. With your feedback and additional photos, we aim to breathe life into these images, providing the context they deserve.

As we turn the pages of this photo album, let's embark on a voyage of rediscovery. Together, we'll unveil untold stories, celebrate unsung heroes, and rekindle the connections that bind us for generations. We eagerly anticipate creating, preserving, and celebrating our community's remarkable history, one image at a time. 

Thank you for being a part of this exciting journey. You are also welcome to share your own treasured photos from the past. Please send through our Facebook Messenger with accompanying captions.