With great solemnity and national pride, the flag-raising ceremony took place on the Sacred Rock of the Acropolis, marking the 81st anniversary of the Liberation of Athens from Nazi occupation.
The ceremony was attended by President of the Hellenic Republic Konstantinos Tasoulas, Mayor of Athens Haris Doukas, representatives of the Armed Forces, the Hellenic Parliament, and political parties.
President Tasoulas stated:
“The liberation of Athens exactly 81 years ago, on October 12, 1944 — which we proudly and emotionally commemorate today — unfolded in an atmosphere of overwhelming joy and relief.
Athens, like the rest of Greece, endured, suffered, and resisted during the three and a half years of ruthless Nazi occupation. We must always remember and honor that endurance, that indomitable patience, that harsh trial, and that resistance.”
He went on to emphasize:
“The hour of liberation for the capital of Greece was the long-awaited moment of freedom — precious, delicate, and hard-won.
Even today, 81 years later, it reminds us that freedom, though invaluable, is also fragile. It must be defended and safeguarded every single day. Especially by a society united in this purpose, so that freedom can continue to breathe — and by breathing, generously grant us its life-giving spirit.
Happy Anniversary!”
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas added:
“Eighty-one years ago, the swastika was taken down from the Acropolis, and the Greek flag was raised once again in its place.
On this anniversary, we honor those who fell resisting fascism — and we make a promise to the living: that we will protect and expand upon the values won with blood — Freedom, Justice, and Democracy.”
Photos: Eurokinissi / Giorgos Kontarinis
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