For the first time, Asia Minor studies will have a dedicated role in Greek higher education through a new endowed chair at the University of Macedonia’s Department of Balkan, Slavic, and Oriental Studies.
According to ekathimerini.com, the chair, focusing on Asia Minor—modern-day Anatolia in Turkey—aims to connect Balkan and Middle Eastern research. Professor Dimitris A. Stamatopoulos noted it will address gaps in studying critical events like the Asia Minor Catastrophe (Greek-Turkish War of 1922) and its lasting impact.
Funded by companies like Alumil and Optima Bank, the initiative will delve into the region’s multicultural legacy, including interactions among Greeks, Armenians, Turks, and others. The official launch will take place Friday at Thessaloniki City Council Hall, featuring speeches from the university rector and academics like Helene Glykatzi-Ahrweiler.
The university aims to spotlight Asia Minor’s historical importance and promote interdisciplinary research.
Source: ekathimerini.com
