1821 – 2021
In 1821, Hellenism proved that despite years of enslavement, it remained alive and vigilant, looking for the right moment to light the flame that would lead the nation to freedom. We honour this indefatigable Greek soul who two hundred years ago “stood up” and managed to fulfil an unquenchable – for four hundred years – desire, on 25 March. When we joined forces and fought against the Ottoman yoke. A shining example of what we Greeks can do if we put aside our personal differences and commit ourselves to a common cause, a great Struggle.
…and 183 years of official celebrations
The establishment of 25 March as a national anniversary was established by a royal decree of Otto in 1838, which was published in the press of the time. Seventeen years after the “uprising” of the Greeks and the raising of the Revolutionary banner in Moldavia and from there to the Peloponnese, Central Greece, the islands and the whole territory, where the heart of the Nation was beating loudly.
The symbolism in the choice of date is obvious.
On 25 March, we celebrate the Revolution of the Nation, on the same day as the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary – “the Head of our salvation” according to the Church.
This first celebration, in 1838, was held with great splendour and with the enthusiastic participation of the people.
An endless feast with dances was “set up” in the palace square – today’s Klathmonos Square, while as night fell, the Acropolis was illuminated with the means of the time and a huge cross with the inscription “En touto Nika” was formed on Lycabettus with lanterns.
The pandemic does not allow us to celebrate as we did the first time, 183 years ago, close to each other. The meaning of the day, however, remains strong. We hope that this year’s anniversary will be an occasion to find the common goal that will unite us and, like the Greeks of 1821, let us also draw inspiration and courage from our long history, our traditions and our culture to build the Greece of the future, which will stand tall in the challenges of the times.