Greece commemorates Athens Polytechnic Uprising with protests and memorials

·

Despite wet weather, crowds gathered early on Sunday, November 17, at the Athens Polytechnic to honour the 51st anniversary of the 1973 anti-junta uprising. Families, students, and political figures commemorated those who lost their lives fighting for democracy during the military dictatorship.

Attendees placed flowers at the monument, sharing stories of the uprising with younger generations. “Rain or shine, we promised we’d come,” said one father, accompanied by his young child. A woman from the “Polytechnic Generation” reflected, “This historical event must never be forgotten. Its relevance endures today.”

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis underscored the uprising’s legacy, calling it “an enduring symbol of progress” and a reminder of Greece’s commitment to democracy. President Katerina Sakellaropoulou emphasised its significance amid modern challenges, stating, “Democracy is our most valuable asset.”

Photo: Tovima.

The day culminated in a march from the Polytechnic to the US Embassy, with around 25,000 participants chanting slogans like “The Polytechnic uprising lives on” and “Freedom in Palestine.” The protest also drew criticism of US support for the junta during the Cold War.

Authorities deployed over 5,500 officers, supported by drones and helicopters, to monitor the march and prevent unrest. Police detained over 110 individuals in pre-march checks. In Thessaloniki, clashes erupted as demonstrators threw Molotov cocktails, prompting police to respond with tear gas.

The Polytechnic uprising is widely seen as a turning point that hastened the collapse of Greece’s military dictatorship, leading to the restoration of democracy in 1974. Protests were held nationwide, reinforcing its enduring call for freedom and justice.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Meatfare Sunday: A time for reflection and mercy

Meatfare Sunday, observed on the second Sunday before Great Lent, marks the final day for eating meat before the Lenten fast.

Eleni Elefterias on music, Greek language, and her journey to writing

Growing up, Eleni Elefterias wasn’t the biggest fan of learning Greek - she was forced to speak Greek at home and she hated going to Greek school.

Chocolate and Hazelnut Biscotti: Niki Louca shares her favourite recipe

Niki Louca from My Greek Kitchen shares her favourite recipe for Chocolate and Hazelnut Biscotti with The Greek Herald. 

Greek olive oils ranked in EVOO world ranking for 2024

The EVOO World Ranking is an annual ranking by the World Association of Journalists and Writers of Wines, Liquors and others (WAWWJ).

Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey sparks controversy ahead of 2026 release

Christopher Nolan’s upcoming adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey is already drawing criticism for historical inaccuracies.

You May Also Like

Alphington Grammar School escalates dispute with Yarra Council over gate removal demand

Alphington Grammar School has escalated its fight with the Yarra City Council over its demand to open the school's front gates to the public.

Lamia man sets fire to shop for refusing to serve him alcohol

A young man has attempted to burn a shop in Lamia after the owner refused to give him another drink a day prior, LamiaReprt.gr reports.

Uber rides into Santorini and other European islands ahead of the summer season

Uber has announced that UberX, Uber Black and Uber Comfort services will be launching across the Mediterranean and Balearic Islands.