Greek President, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, commemorates Chios massacre

·

Greece’s President, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, visited the Eastern Aegean island of Chios on Sunday to commemorate the Chios massacre.

The Chios massacre was one of the worst atrocities committed by the Ottoman Turks in the 19th century against the revolted Greek Christian population of the then-Empire.

”Today, here in Anavatos of Chios, we honor the memory of the thousands of undefeated martyrs of the terrible massacre committed by the Turks in 1822,” Sakellaropoulou wrote on Twitter.

“We praise the spirit of those who made the island to be reborn at the urging of their compatriot, Adamantios Korais, who said ‘You recovered and made the paternal land brighter’.”

Painted depiction of the Chios massacre by Eugène Delacroix.

What is the Chios massacre:

In March 1822, several hundred armed Greeks from the neighboring island of Samos landed on Chios. They attacked the Ottomans, who retreated to the citadel. Many islanders then decided to join the Greek War of Independence.

The Ottomans sent reinforcements to Chios on March 22. On March 31, orders were given to burn down the town, and over the next four months, another estimated 40,000 Turkish troops arrived on the island.

The troops were also ordered to kill all infants under three years old, all males 12 years and older, and all females 40 and older – except those willing to convert to Islam.

Tens of thousands of survivors dispersed throughout Europe and became part of what is known as the Chian Diaspora.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

Remembering Mikis: Greek Australians share their encounters with a music legend

On the centenary of Mikis Theodorakis’ birth, three Greek Australians reflect on the unforgettable moments they shared with the maestro.

The saints among us

Canonisation of St Dimitrios Gagastathis reminds us that holiness is not confined to monasteries. It flourishes in families and everyday life

GOCNSW launches youth initiatives ahead of Panathinaikos tournament in Australia

Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament is coming to Australia’s shores and the GOCNSW is playing an active role in highlighting the historic event.

VCE students of the GCM and St John’s College visit Bonegilla migrant centre

VCE students participated in an educational excursion to the historic Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre on Sunday, July 28.

Saints’ Junior Reps cap off season with Grand Final victories

Last weekend the Basketball NSW Metro Junior League had reached its climax: the Grand Final. Read more here.

You May Also Like

Four Australians of Greek heritage among rugby’s most powerful

NRL’s most influential figures for 2023 has been revealed with four Australians of Greek heritage being recognised for their contributions.

Greek Orthodox Community of NSW calls for immediate end to Gaza conflict

The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW have issued a statement expressing solidarity with the People of Palestine.

Greek islands included among the 12 greatest of all time

The article notes "be cognisant there are more than 200 other options to include on a Greek island-hopping adventure.