AHEPA Australia is commemorating its 90th anniversary in 2024, marking a significant milestone since its establishment in 1934. As part of the celebrations, AHEPA has organised a series of lectures in collaboration with the Australian Archaeological Institute of Athens (AAIA) at the University of Sydney.
On Friday, July 19, the Greek Community Club in Lakemba was the venue for an engaging evening featuring Dr Stavros Paspalas, the Deputy Director of the AAIA. Attendees were also treated to a culinary delight prepared by Chef Aris, setting the stage for an informative and enjoyable event.
Dr Paspalas delivered an insightful lecture on the archaeological site of Zagora, located on the island of Andros. Zagora is renowned for providing unique insights into ancient Greek history, particularly the ninth and eighth centuries BC. It is the best-preserved known settlement from this period in the Greek world, a time marked by the establishment of Greek settlements across the Mediterranean, the development of the Greek alphabet, the crystallisation of the Homeric epics, and the early stages of the Greek polis.
Drawing on the results of Australian excavations, Dr Paspalas vividly recreated the key aspects of life for the ancient inhabitants of Zagora. He highlighted their interactions in the expanding Greek world, which included regions from Italy and Sicily to the coast of the Levant (Lebanon, Syria, and Israel). The Zagora site, excavated by an Australian team, has garnered worldwide attention for its historical significance.
The co-directors of the Zagora Archaeological Project – Dr Paspalas, Dr Lesley Beaumont, Dr Paul Donnelly, and (until 2019) Professor Margaret Miller – have expressed their gratitude to the Greek Ministry of Culture for its support, particularly colleagues in the Archaeological Directorate of the Cyclades. The project has also introduced scores of Australian students to the excitement of on-the-ground archaeology in Greece, fostering a deeper appreciation for ancient history and cultural heritage.
Dr Paspalas’ passion for archaeology was evident throughout his presentation, captivating the audience with his enthusiasm for Zagora. After the lecture, attendees eagerly engaged with Dr Paspalas, asking numerous questions which he kindly addressed.
The feedback from members and guests was overwhelmingly positive. Comments such as “The Zagora lecture was very interesting,” “I learned something new today,” and “I am from the Cyclades and was not aware of this archaeological treasure” echoed the general sentiment. One member remarked, “Those who did not attend missed out on a very informative presentation.”
As AHEPA Australia continues to celebrate its 90th anniversary, events like the Zagora lecture highlight the organisation’s ongoing commitment to education, culture, and community engagement.
