Black Bicentenial: Two Centuries Since Geraki Was Set Ablaze

Panic in the village as Geraki is set ablaze.

By Dimitri Katsambis

Karitsiotika Nea 

Friday, 12 September 2025

Two centuries on, Geraki remembers the blazing inferno of Ibrahim – the flames that destroyed homes and hearts, and the unyielding bravery of its people.

Today marks two hundred years since 12 September 1825, the day when Geraki, the historic chief village of our region, was destroyed by the forces of Ibrahim Pasha. The burning came the day after the battle at Mnimata above the mountain village of Karitsa, and just three days before the martyrdom at Paliomonastiro, the old monastery, near Vrontamas. It was a dark page not only for Geraki, but for the whole region – an area that resisted with courage, yet suffered devastating losses.

The Preparations of Spring and Summer

The events of that bleak autumn of 1825 began months earlier. In April, the Ministry of War summoned the local elders of the Lymbochoria – the cluster of villages comprising Geraki, Kosmas, Paliochori, Agios Vasileios and Platanaki – to mobilise men in case of emergency. In June, the local leader in arms Anagnostis Asimakopoulos was appointed commander, and by 8 July a report was sent from Geraki to the Ministry of War describing the poor morale among the soldiers and the disappointing state of affairs.

The Presence of Kolokotronis

Theodoros Kolokotronis, recognising the pressing need, arrived in Geraki on 6 September 1825, where he met with D. Plapoutas, D. Deligiannis and A. Zaimis. His purpose was to raise the morale of the locals and to organise the defence.

The Advance of Ibrahim

Ibrahim then moved from Trinisa towards Skala and Molaoi, burning villages along the way. On 8 September Kolokotronis shifted to Kremašti, setting up camp between Geraki and Kremašti in order to defend the village. Under his guidance, women and children from Geraki were given time to escape through the Sorbanos Pass and seek refuge on the island of Spetses.

The Burning of Geraki

On 12 September, as Kolokotronis himself recorded in his memoirs, “today is a black day, for Ibrahim burns Geraki.” The flames consumed more than houses: property, harvests and storehouses were lost; fear spread through the hearts of the people.

The Battle at Mnimata

The day before, on 11 September, a clash had taken place at Mnimata above the mountain villag Karitsa, where Ibrahim’s forces met the warriors of Kolokotronis. Villagers from Karitsa fought in that battle; the place took its mournful name “Mnimata” – Graves – perhaps because the Turkish dead were buried there.

The Holocaust of Paliomonastiro

Three days after the burning of Geraki, on 15 September, came the martyrdom at Paliomonastiro, the Old Monastery of Vrontamas, where around 400 souls perished “heroically for freedom.”

The Captives of Ibrahim

Women and children flee Geraki through Sormpanos

In those dark days, when Ibrahim spread fire and ruin across our land, some women and children from Geraki managed to escape through the Sorbanos pass and reach safety in Spetses. Many others, however – mostly women and children from Geraki, Alepochori and Karitsa – were not so fortunate; they were captured and carried into captivity. The General State Archives preserve lists of these captives, drawn up between 1828 and 1837 by the local authorities of the time. The records appear stark – mere names and family ties – yet behind each line lay a torn family, a child separated from its mother, a girl sold in the slave market of Methoni. From there, most were dispersed to Egypt, and only a few ever returned, rescued by expatriate Greeks, European philanthropy or through the Treaty of 1829.

Below we reproduce the names of captives from Geraki, Alepochori and Karitsa, as published by Konstantinos Oikonomakis in the newspaper To Geraki (March–April 2005 edition). The sources may overlap or contain ambiguities, yet the truth remains: the tragedy of captivity reveals the scale of the disaster Ibrahim’s campaign brought – looting, fire, desolation and slavery. 

Geraki

1.      Kanella, wife of K. Mitros

2.      Konstantina, daughter of Kon. Nizas

3.      Archontou, sister of G. Smadis (also recorded as Archontou G. Aimadis)

4.      Antonia, sister of G. Smadis (also recorded as Antonia G. Aimadis)

5.      Konstantis, son of Georgios Asmadis

6.      Dimitroula, daughter of Georgios Asmadis (Demetra G. Aimadis)

7.      Kanella, daughter of Nikolaos Georgios Asmadis

8.      Kanella, daughter of Nikolaos Fasmoulis

9.      Athanasios, son of Kon. Monezis

10.  Panos, son of Petros Kanellis

11.  Maroulitsa, daughter of Petros Kanellis (also recorded as Maroulitsa Mitrou Kanelli, aged 1)

12.  Panagiota, wife of Dimitrios Maroutas (aged 22)

13.  Kanella, daughter of Dimitrios Karoutas (also recorded as Kanella, daughter of Dimitrios Maroutas, aged 2)

14.  Aikaterini, wife of Nikolaos Ntoulfas

15.  Michalis, son of Christos Bardis

16.  Panagiotis, son of Christos Bardis

17.  Georgakis, son of Christos Maroudias

Alepochori

1.      Konstantina, daughter of Stamatis Kontos

2.      Her nephew, Stamatis

3.      Panagiota, daughter of the same

4.      Eleni, daughter of Mitros Kontos

5.      Panagiota, daughter of Mitros Kontos and sister of Eleni

6.      Theodora, daughter of Dimitrios Kontos

7.      Her brother

8.      Georgis, son of Anagnostis Tryfonas (also recorded as Georgis Anagnostis Roufakis, aged 9)

9.      Theodora, his daughter (Theodora Anagnostis Tryfonas Roufakis)

10.  Kyriakoula, his daughter (Kyriakoula Anagnostis Tryfonas Roufakis)

11.  Lygeri, his daughter (Lygeri Anagnostis Tryfonas Roufakis)

12.  Antona, daughter of Zacharias

13.  Female children of Zacharias

For those listed under numbers 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12, it is noted that “they were taken captive to Daliana.”

1.       Georgakis, son of Konstantinos Tsembelis, together with two children of Konstantis Tzapolis, one boy and one girl;

2.       Irini, daughter of Georgios Tsembelis;

3.       the wife of Dimitrakis Maroudas with her daughter (likely the same persons listed as nos. 11 and 12 in the Geraki register);

4.       Panaina Maroudou with her young daughter (Panaina, daughter of Panagiotis Maroudis);

5.       the son of Georgios Lagos, aged six;

6.       two children of Georgios Midis;

7.       a small child of Dimitrios Kanellis;

8.       Morpho, daughter of Georgakis Mitou (also recorded as Morpho, daughter of Georgakis Milos);

9.       two sons of Christos Perdis (very likely the same listed as nos. 14 and 15 in the Geraki register);

10.    Aikaterini, also of Christos Perdis;

11.    Aikaterini, daughter of Mitros Kanellis, found in a cave at Vrontamas;

12.    Kanella, daughter of Giannakis Mitroudas;

13.    Kanella, daughter of Mitros Bratis, recorded at the fortress of Kremasti;

14.    Thanasis, son of Kostas Sakellariou, noted at Velita (the settlement of Velota);

15.    Nikolaïna, widow of Polygiannis (also recorded as Nikolaïna, widow of Polygainas);

16.    Diamanto, daughter of Poulitsas of Apidia, at the fortress of Kremasti;

17.    and her two daughters.

Last reflection

Two hundred years on, Geraki and the neighbouring villages have not forgotten. They remember the fire of Ibrahim that consumed homes and harvests, they remember the battle at Mnimata above Karitsa, they remember the martyrdom at the Paliomonastiro of Vrontamas. But above all they remember the women and children who were lost to captivity, scattered to distant lands, far from their own soil.

This history is not only a lament; it is also a testimony to the indomitable spirit of our ancestors. From the ashes they rose again, keeping alive their faith, their tradition and their homeland.

Today, 12 September 2025, exactly two hundred years since that “black day”, we bow our heads in respect and remembrance. Geraki does not forget the flames, but holds fast in its heart the courage that stood tall then – and which, even today, shows the path of endurance and hope

On this day, 200 years ago, dark fate cast a heavy shadow over Karitsa

The bells fell silent, and the village turned into a wail of sorrow

By Dimitri Katsambis

Karitsiotika Nea 

Thursday, 11 September 2025

The village’s history turned to its darkest page on 11 September 1825, when fire, fear, captivity and death ravaged its memory and spirit.

In 1825, a detachment under Ibrahim Pasha launched a brutal raid, aiming to exterminate and terrorise the people of Laconia and lay waste to their land. Wherever they passed, they slaughtered civilians, took young men and women captive, and burned villages and homesteads to the ground.

The Battle at Mnimata

Resistance at "Sta Mnimata"

On the morning of Friday, 11th September 1825, a day before they torched Geraki and just four days before the holocaust at Paliomonastiro, a fierce battle erupted between Ibrahim's forces and the Greek fighters under Kolokotronis on the mountain opposite Agios Ioannis in Karitsa. Locals still recount how many villagers ran to help the Greek fighters. In fact, a fellow villager was killed in the fighting; his body was carried back on a ladder to be buried in Karitsa. It's also said that many enemy soldiers fell. From that day on, the slope was named "Mnimata" (The Graves), as it appears the Muslim forces buried their dead there.

Fleeing to the Forest of Tsouka

In a state of panic, the villagers fled to the forest of Tsouka, west of the village. From there, that same afternoon, they watched in anguish as flames and smoke rose from several burning houses in Karitsa. Soon, the fire engulfed the forest around them. Local folklore tells that Georgakis Tsebelis and his wife, Eirini, were captured. In Tsouka, according to accounts, two other young Tsebelis women were also taken prisoner; they were raped and murdered.

The Captives of Karitsa

The village mourned its daughters and mothers

Official records preserved to this day in the General State Archives (GAK) provide a more detailed picture. A list of captives notes that Georgakis, son of Konstandis Tsebelis, his wife Eirini, and his sister, whose first name we do not know, were among 23 captives taken in Karitsa, mostly women and children. The prisoners were taken to a camp in Messenia and from there were loaded onto ships bound for the slave markets of the Middle East, where their fate was forever lost. Recent findings not only confirm but also add to this information. Stelios Hagias, coordinator of the research into the Family Trees of Southern Parnon, cross-referenced the data and reveals that the two Tsebelis women were in fact a daughter-in-law and a sister-in-law.

The Child of Misfortune

Another tragic detail comes to light: a third Tsebelis girl, seven-year-old Chrysoula, the daughter of Georgakis and Eirini, also fell into the hands of the enemy. Stories passed down tell that she suffered horrific torture; the Turks tied her delicate little hands with ropes and dragged her behind a horse. However, the little girl managed to escape and survive, evading the fate of her mother and aunt.

The List of Captives

What follows is a list of names of those captured in Karitsa, in alphabetical order, as preserved in the archives…

Georgakis Kon. Tsembelis (with two children, a son and a daughter of Konstantis Tzapoulis), Irini (his daughter, Irini Georg. Tsembelis),The wife of Dimitrakis Maroudas with her daughter, Panaina Maroudou with her daughter (Panaina, daughter of Pan. Maroudis), The son of G. Lagos, Two children of G. Midis, A small child of Mitros Kanellis, Morfo, daughter of Georgakis Milos, Two sons of Christos Perdis, Aikaterini, daughter of the same, Aikaterini, daughter of Mitros Kanellis, in a cave at Vrontamas, Kanella, daughter of Giannakis Mitroudas, Kanella, daughter of Mitros Bratis, at the castle of Kremasti, Thanasis, son of Kostas Sakellariou, at Velita (the settlement of Velota), Nikolaïna, widow of Polygainas, Diamanto, daughter of Poulitsas, from Apidia, at the castle of Kremasti, Her two daughters.

Memory and Duty

It's clear that several of these names do not belong to people from Karitsa, but rather to refugees from Geraki. This makes sense when you consider that, on that day, many women and children had fled Geraki via Sorbanos to seek safety and were likely captured alongside the people of Karitsa. In any case, it is our duty to remember and honour all of them, whether from Karitsa or the neighbouring villages.

Little Chrysoula: child of calamity, symbol of hope and endurance

Little Chrysoula,

her gaze brimming with innocence and courage,

stands at life's threshold,

a living symbol of hope and resilience

The story of little Chrysoula remains deeply etched in the village's memory. The testimony of her suffering was passed down by word of mouth until Stelios Hagias recorded it from the late Katerina Rozakli, née Malavazou.

Chrysoula was just seven years old at the time, the daughter of Georgakis and Eirini Tsebelis. Along with her mother, whom fellow villagers later remembered as ‘the Enslaved One,’ her father, and her aunt, whose name has been lost, she was taken captive by Ibrahim’s soldiers. Fate was harsh; her mother and aunt were lost, but Georgakis and little Chrysoula managed to escape and return to the village.

Later, her father Georgakis remarried, had seven more children, and died in 1861 at the age of 65.

Chrysoula, the child who knew the horrors of war, lived a long and fruitful life. She married Nikolaos Anastasiou Malavazos, known as ‘Konto-Nikolas’, and they had four daughters together. She lived for almost a century, until she was 95, and in her old age was known to everyone as ‘Giagia Mou-Mou’. She passed away in 1913, leaving behind a whole dynasty; to this day, she has over 150 descendants across seven generations. Among them are Stelios Hagias himself, a fifth-generation descendant, and the author of this piece, Dimitris Katsambis, her great-great-grandson.

And so, little Chrysoula, who was once dragged along tied behind a horse, became, along with her father, a symbol of life, resilience, and continuity for all the people of Karitsa.

Epilogue

Recording these events is not merely of historical importance; it is a legacy and a memory for us all. The tragedy of the people of Karitsa and their neighbours in 1825, but also the salvation of little Chrysoula, are symbols of endurance, faith, and continuity. By keeping these stories alive, we honour not only our ancestors but also the very value of memory that unites us as a Laconian community worldwide.

«Νιώσαμε ότι δεν μας ξέχασε η ζωή»

Κείμενο: Κυριακή Κάππα

Φωτογραφίες: Anastasia Mavrides 
Αναδημοσίευση από τον «Νέο Κόσμο» Αυστραλίας,
Σάββατο, 9 Αυγούστου

Χαρά και συγκίνηση χάρισε στους ηλικιωμένους του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας η επίσκεψη μαθητών ελληνικής καταγωγής, στους οποίους μίλησαν για τις προσωπικές τους ιστορίες.

 

Με μεγάλη χαρά και συγκίνηση υποδέχθηκαν οι ηλικιωμένοι του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας νεαρούς μαθητές, με τους οποίους μοιράστηκαν τις ιστορίες της ζωής τους.

                         

 «Δεν το βλέπεις κάθε μέρα να μπαίνουν νέα παιδιά στο καφενείο, να κάθονται, να είναι έτοιμα να παίξουν ένα τάβλι μαζί σου, να ακούσουν, να ρωτήσουν», δήλωσε στον «Νέο Κόσμο» ο Dimitri Katsambis, μέλος του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας, και πρόσθεσε:

 

«Νιώσαμε ότι δεν μας ξέχασε η ζωή. Μας έδωσαν ζωή με την παρουσία τους».

«Σαν να ξανάζησα τα χρόνια μου. Τα διηγήθηκα και τα ένιωσα ξανά. Και ένιωσα και περήφανος, γιατί κάποιο παιδί θα πάρει την ιστορία μου και θα την κρατήσει. Δεν θα χαθεί».

Ο κ. Katsambis δήλωσε επίσης ιδιαίτερα εντυπωσιασμένος από τη «ζεστασιά και το ενδιαφέρον» που εισέπραξε από όλα τα παιδιά.

Όπως είπε «δεν ήταν μια τυπική επίσκεψη».

«Φαινόταν ότι είχαν προετοιμαστεί με αγάπη και σεβασμό … Μου άφησαν την αίσθηση ότι στα σχολεία των παιδιών και των εγγονών μας γίνονται πολύ όμορφα πράγματα. Κι αυτό μας γεμίζει ελπίδα».

Η επίσκεψη των μαθητών στο Καφενείο Λακωνίας πραγματοποιήθηκε στο πλαίσιο της ευρύτερης πρωτοβουλίας «Our Greek-Speaking Community»

Τόνισε δε πόσο σημαντικό είναι για τα παιδιά να μαθαίνουν για την καταγωγή και την ιστορία τους «γιατί αλλιώς», όπως είπε, «ξεχνιέται ο τόπος, η γλώσσα, οι άνθρωποι».

«Αν δεν τα πεις στα παιδιά, θα χαθούν όλα. Κι εμείς από τους παλιούς τα μάθαμε, και τώρα ήρθε η ώρα να δώσουμε τη σκυτάλη. Να ξέρουν από πού κρατάνε».

Πρόσφατα, μαθητές ελληνικής καταγωγής της τάξης Year 9 του Adelaide High School κάθισαν και συνομίλησαν με ηλικιωμένους του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας στην Αδελαΐδα, με σκοπό να καταγράψουν και να διαφυλάξουν τις ιστορίες της ζωής των παλαιών, για να μαθαίνουν οι… νέοι.

Κάθε μαθητής/τρια που συμμετείχε στην εν λόγω πρωτοβουλία διασύνδεσης γενεών, θα δημιουργήσει στη συνέχεια μια σύντομη βιογραφία και ένα βίντεο-αφιέρωμα για τα άτομα με τα οποία συνομίλησαν.

Τα έργα καταγραφής ιστοριών θα παραδοθούν ως ενθύμια στις οικογένειες των ηλικιωμένων «πρωταγωνιστών» και θα αποτελέσουν μέρος ενός ευρύτερου αρχείου, ως ένα είδος παρακαταθήκης για τις μελλοντικές γενιές.

Η επίσκεψη των μαθητών πραγματοποιήθηκε στο Καφενείο Λακωνίας του Συλλόγου, στο πλαίσιο της ευρύτερης πρωτοβουλίας «Our Greek-Speaking Community», και είναι αποτέλεσμα συνεργασίας μεταξύ της Neoléa, του Adelaide High School και του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας (Pan-Laconian Society of SA).

Μαθητές ελληνικής καταγωγής κάθισαν και συνομίλησαν με ηλικιωμένους του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας στην Αδελαΐδα. Φωτογραφίες: Anastasia Mavrides

Όπως δήλωσε στον «Νέο Κόσμο» ο Manos Nikolaidis, ένας εκ των μαθητών του Adelaide High School, η εμπειρία της αλληλεπίδρασης με μέλη της παλαιότερης γενιάς της ελληνικής κοινότητας υπήρξε «πραγματικά αποκαλυπτική».

«Με έκανε να συνειδητοποιήσω τις δυσκολίες που αντιμετώπιζαν τότε οι άνθρωποι στην Ελλάδα. Μας δίδαξαν επίσης πολλά μαθήματα ζωής, όπως το ότι η οικογένεια είναι πάνω απ’ όλα, καθώς και ότι πάντα πρέπει να συμπεριφέρομαι με σεβασμό (be a gentleman)».

Ο Manos εντυπωσιάστηκε ιδιαίτερα από το γεγονός ότι οι ηλικιωμένοι με τους οποίους συνομίλησε «είχαν πάντα θετική διάθεση» και «δεν είπαν ούτε μία φορά κάτι αρνητικό για τη ζωή τους», καθώς μοιράζονταν τις ιστορίες τους, από τα χρόνια τους στην Ελλάδα έως τη μετεγκατάστασή τους στην Αυστραλία.

Για τη μαθήτρια Ruby Grivas, αυτό που ξεχώρισε ήταν το ότι τα μαθήματα ζωής που μοιράζονταν οι περισσότεροι ηλικιωμένοι με τους μαθητές είχαν έναν κοινό παρονομαστή: την αξία της οικογένειας.

«Οι στιγμές που μου έμειναν περισσότερο ήταν όταν οι περισσότεροι ανέφεραν ως μάθημα ζωής το ‘η οικογένεια πάνω απ’ όλα’».

«Ήταν όμορφο να βλέπω πως όλοι είχαν την ίδια άποψη πάνω σε αυτό».

Οι μαθητές προσέφεραν στον Παλλακωνικό Σύλλογο Νότιας Αυστραλίας ένα χειροποίητο παγκάκι ως δώρο

Χαρακτήρισε την εμπειρία ιδιαίτερα «ευχάριστη», η οποία, όπως δήλωσε η Ruby στον «Νέο Κόσμο», τής πρόσφερε την ευκαιρία να κατανοήσει «τα σκαμπανεβάσματα και τις δυσκολίες στη ζωή των άλλων».

Ιδιαίτερο ενδιαφέρον προκάλεσε στη μαθήτρια Sofia Gonis, το πόσα κοινά σημεία εντόπισε σε πολλές από τις εμπειρίες της μετανάστευσης που άκουσε.

«Μια ιστορία που μου έκανε ιδιαίτερη εντύπωση ήταν όταν άκουσα για τα πλοία με τα οποία έφτασαν όλοι, τα περισσότερα ήταν τα ίδια, και για το πώς κάποια από τα μέλη (του Συλλόγου) πιθανόν να γνωρίζονταν χρόνια πριν (συναντηθούν στην Αυστραλία)».

Η Dimitra Rozaklis, καθηγήτρια Ελληνικών στο Adelaide High School, εξέφρασε την ευγνωμοσύνη της προς τη Neoléa «για την καταγραφή αυτών των πολύτιμων στιγμών μεταξύ γενεών».

«Η ευρύτερη κοινότητα εμπλουτίζει τις ζωές των μαθητών μας. Η καλοσύνη και η φιλοξενία των Λακώνων και φυσικά το νόστιμο φαγητό έκαναν αυτή την ημέρα αξέχαστη».

«Νιώθω πραγματικά ευλογημένη που προέρχομαι από μια τόσο υποστηρικτική κοινότητα».

Η πρόεδρος της Neoléa, Anastasia Mavrides, ανέφερε ότι η συνεργασία με την κα Rozaklis και το Adelaide High School ήταν ιδιαίτερα ευχάριστη, υπογραμμίζοντας πως η εν λόγω πρωτοβουλία επικεντρώνεται στο «χτίσιμο γεφυρών ανάμεσα στις γενιές».

«Το να βλέπεις τον χώρο γεμάτο συζητήσεις, μουσική και γέλια ήταν μια δυνατή υπενθύμιση του τι σημαίνει κοινότητα».

Εκτός από τις συνεντεύξεις, οι μαθητές προσέφεραν στον Παλλακωνικό Σύλλογο Νότιας Αυστραλίας ένα χειροποίητο παγκάκι ως δώρο.

Δύο μαθητές παρουσίασαν μια μουσική παράσταση, ενώ οι παρευρισκόμενοι απόλαυσαν γεύμα που ετοίμασαν μέλη του συλλόγου.

Η Neoléa —μια πρωτοβουλία που έχει ως στόχο να ενθαρρύνει νέους Ελληνοαυστραλούς να εξερευνήσουν την πολιτιστική τους κληρονομιά και να οικοδομήσουν το μέλλον τους με βάση την παρακαταθήκη των προγόνων τους— συνεργάζεται με σχολεία όπου διδάσκεται η ελληνική γλώσσα, υλοποιώντας δράσεις που κυμαίνονται από συνεντεύξεις προφορικής ιστορίας έως δημιουργικές δραστηριότητες, με στόχο την ενεργή συμμετοχή των νέων στην κοινότητα.

On This Day, 17 March 1821: How Mani and Laconia Lit the Flame of the 1821 Greek Revolution

“The hour has struck, the time has come for us to take up arms and fight for our faith and our homeland!” 

— Petros Mavromichalis, addressing the Maniot clans in Areopoli, 17 March 1821

These words, thundered by Petros Mavromichalis, the Bey of Mani, marked the decisive moment when Greece’s struggle for independence shifted from whispers of rebellion to open war. On this day, 17 March 1821, in the windswept town of Areopoli, perched on the rocky Mani Peninsula of Laconia, a band of fierce warriors and clan leaders gathered to light the fuse of Greek independence. While 25 March is celebrated as the symbolic start of the Greek War of Independence, it was here, eight days earlier, that the revolution’s first formal proclamation rang out—a bold act of defiance that shattered centuries of Ottoman subjugation.

The Maniots: A People Forged in Resistance 

The Mani Peninsula, a rugged, semi-autonomous region in Laconia, had long resisted Ottoman dominance. Its fiercely independent clans, led by figures such as Petros Mavromichalis, chafed under Ottoman taxation and conscription. By early 1821, clandestine networks of the Filiki Eteria (Society of Friends) had been mobilising support for rebellion. However, it was the Maniots—exhausted by oppression and galvanised by news of uprisings in the Danubian Principalities—who acted first. 

17 March 1821

On 17 March 1821, chieftains and elders gathered in Areopoli’s Church of Taxiarchis. Under Mavromichalis’ leadership, they swore an oath to fight for freedom, declaring “Victory or Death”. Within hours, Maniot forces marched north, swiftly capturing Ottoman-held Kalamata on 23 March. This bold strike demonstrated the revolution’s viability, inspiring neighbouring regions to join. 

Why 25 March Prevails in Public Memory 

The prominence of 25 March stems from its symbolic alignment with the Feast of the Annunciation, a key Orthodox Christian feast. Bishop Germanos’ ceremonial act at Agia Lavra—whether factual or mythologised—resonated deeply with the Greek populace, intertwining religious faith with national liberation. Additionally, the Peloponnesian leadership’s coordination from 25 March provided a unifying narrative, overshadowing regional uprisings like Mani’s. 

Reconciling the Dates 

Historians acknowledge that the revolution unfolded in stages rather than a single day. Mani’s proclamation on 17 March was a catalyst, proving Ottoman forces could be challenged. The Peloponnesian uprising from 25 March, meanwhile, marked the revolution’s formal expansion. Both events were critical: Mani provided the initial spark; later proclamations broadened the revolt into a collective struggle. 

Conclusion: Honouring a Complex Legacy 

The 17 March proclamation in Areopoli underscores the revolution’s decentralised nature. While 25 March remains a potent national symbol, recognising Mani’s contribution enriches our understanding of the revolution’s grassroots origins. As Greece reflects on its past, acknowledging both dates fosters a fuller appreciation of the sacrifices and strategies that birthed a nation. 

In revisiting history, we honour not just the symbols that unite us, but the myriad acts of courage that made independence possible. The people of Mani, gathering in Areopoli’s shadowed streets, deserve their place alongside the storied banners of Agia Lavra. 

Vale Thymios Traiforos (1939–2025)

We are saddened to announce the passing of our valued member, Thymios Traiforos, on Tuesday, 4 March 2025, at the age of 85.

Born on 10 June 1939 in Kosmas, Kynouria, Thymios remained deeply connected to his birthplace throughout his life. Seeking new opportunities, he migrated to Australia aboard the Patris, arriving on 28 March 1964. Through hard work and determination, he built a life that earned the respect and admiration of many.

A dedicated member of our Society, Thymios was known for his commitment, wisdom, and friendship. His contributions enriched our community, and he will be greatly missed.

We extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Rina, their children, grandchildren, and extended family. May his memory live on in the lives he touched.

Αἰωνία του ἡ μνήμη.
May his memory be eternal.

Weaving the Past into the Future: Geraki Hosts a Celebration of Art and Tradition

“I am thrilled to present this paper in Geraki as part of the celebration for the publication of ‘Weaving Dreams: Kilims from Geraki, Lakonia.’” – Dr. Sharon Gerstel, UCLA 

Geraki of Lakonia came alive on 22nd and 23rd February as the Cultural Association of Geronthres hosted a two-day event celebrating the history, present, and future of the region’s art and culture. Supported by the Ministry of Culture, the Municipality of Evrotas, and the Peloponnese Region, the event brought together renowned speakers, a captivating photographic exhibition, and a heartfelt celebration of Geraki’s rich weaving traditions. 

The festivities began on Saturday with a series of insightful talks by distinguished guests. Dr. Sharon Gerstel, Professor of Byzantine Art and Archaeology at UCLA and Director of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center for the Study of Hellenic Culture, delivered a fascinating presentation on the deep connection between Geraki and its iconic kilims. She was joined by Sofia Pitouli, a PhD candidate in Byzantine Art, and George Manginis, Academic Director of the Benaki Museum, who explored the artistic and cultural significance of Geraki’s weaving heritage.

Dr. Gerstel shared her enthusiasm, saying, “I am thrilled to present this paper in Geraki as part of the celebration for the publication of ‘Weaving Dreams: Kilims from Geraki, Lakonia.’” She emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting this ancient craft, which has been a cornerstone of Geraki’s cultural identity for generations.

The event also featured an emotional speech by Chrysoula Stamatopoulou, local master weaver and instructor, who spoke passionately about her craft. Attendees described her words as “a true testament to the soul of weaving,” capturing the deep personal and cultural significance of the tradition.

Local Member of Parliament Thanasis Davakis, who attended the event, reflected on the multifaceted identity of Geraki, stating, “Geraki is many things at once: it is Guy de Nivelet and his castle from the Frankish era, its Byzantine churches, the art of weaving with its kilims, the dynamic cultivation of edible olives, and its restless and creative people.” He praised the Cultural Association of Geronthres for organising the event, noting how the history and themes of Geraki’s kilims were “unfolded before our eyes,” alongside the stories of the women who wove them with their “blessed hands” on looms for generations.

On Sunday, the focus turned to the future of cultural heritage, with talks by Katerina Frentzou of Branding Heritage and Elli Sfika of Amaltheia Athens. They discussed innovative approaches to preserving and promoting traditional arts in a modern world, offering fresh perspectives on how to keep these practices alive.

One of the highlights of the event was the photographic exhibition “Outside the Walls” by Afroditi Voulgaraki, a local schoolteacher. Her striking images, displayed on upright looms, beautifully captured the everyday life and people of Geraki, blending tradition with contemporary artistry. The exhibition was widely praised for its creativity and emotional resonance.

The two-day event concluded with heartfelt congratulations to the Cultural Association of Geronthres for their dedication to bringing Geraki’s cultural memory into the present. As Theodoros Veroutis, the Deputy Regional Governor of Lakonia, aptly remarked, “The best is yet to come for this collective effort to highlight the culture of our homeland.” The event not only celebrated Geraki’s past but also laid the foundation for a vibrant future, ensuring its traditions continue to inspire for generations to come.

Call to Pan-Laconian Members: Rest Under the Shade of History at Elafonisos’ Historic Cedar

“These ancient trees are living witnesses to the struggles and dreams of our ancestors. They deserve their place in history.” 

– Gianna Angelopoulou-Daskalaki, President of the “Greece 2021” Committee

In a celebration of Greece’s rich revolutionary heritage, a majestic cedar tree located opposite the Church of Agios Spyridon on Elafonisos has been officially added to the “Network of Monumental Trees of the Greek Revolution.” This inclusion marks another step in preserving the living memory of the Greek War of Independence, as the tree is believed to have witnessed pivotal moments in the nation’s fight for freedom. Now, visitors, especially members of the Pan-Laconian Society, are encouraged to rest under its shade, just as the revolutionaries did, and connect with the enduring spirit of 1821.

The cedar, now part of the “Δέντρα Ελευθερίας” (Trees of Freedom), joins a distinguished list of ancient trees in Laconia that have been recognised for their historical significance. These trees, many over 200 years old, are not just natural wonders but also silent witnesses to the bravery and resilience of Greek revolutionaries.

Angelos Tsirigotakis, Mayor of Elafonisos, highlighted the importance of the cedar’s inclusion, remarking, “This tree is a symbol of our history, a living connection to the stories and struggles of 1821. Its recognition ensures that these stories will be passed down to future generations.” He also expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I feel a deep need to sincerely thank Panagiotis Laloumis for his meticulous work in compiling the historical documentation. Highlighting the cultural heritage of our region is a priority.”

The “Network of Monumental Trees of the Greek Revolution” is part of a broader initiative under the commemorative research program “1821 – 2021,” which aims to document and honour trees that were alive during the early 19th century. These trees, including plane trees, olives, willows, and oaks, are not only ecological treasures but also cultural landmarks.

In Laconia, the list of monumental trees now includes:
- Elafonisos: Cedar, Municipality of Elafonisos
- Vachos: Oak, Municipality of East Mani
- Kastania: Plane Tree, Municipality of East Mani
- Apidia: Olive Tree, Municipality of Evrotas
- Arna: Plane Tree, Municipality of Sparta
- Georgitsi: Plane Tree, Municipality of Sparta

Gianna Angelopoulou-Daskalaki, President of the “Greece 2021” Committee, emphasised the symbolic importance of these trees: “The ancient trees—plane trees, olives, willows, and oaks—are surviving witnesses to the battles fought by our ancestors 200 years ago. They deserve a place of honour in our commemorative celebrations. Under their shade, Greek fighters rested, quenched their thirst, and found inspiration. Many of these trees were destroyed by Ibrahim, who understood their vital role not only in the survival of the Greeks but also in fuelling the revolutionary spirit.”

The addition of the Elafonisos cedar to the “Trees of Freedom” network is a poignant reminder of the enduring connection between nature and history. As these ancient trees continue to stand tall, they serve as living monuments to the courage and determination of those who fought for Greece’s independence.

When members of the Pan-Laconian Society next holiday in Greece, we urge them to make a detour and visit these remarkable trees. Like our ancestors, take a moment to rest under their refreshing shade, quench your thirst, or even sing a song. These trees are not just part of our history—they are a living connection to the courage and spirit of those who fought for Greece’s freedom. Let their enduring presence inspire you as they once inspired the revolutionaries of 1821.