On September 17, 2025, a significant event unfolded beneath the ancient monumental olive tree adjacent to the historic Byzantine church of Agia Sophia in Upper Monemvasia. This ceremony marked the official inclusion of the olive tree into the Network of Centenarian Trees of the Greek Revolution, organized by the Municipality of Monemvasia in collaboration with the Cultural Institute of Messinia.
The event commenced following the Divine Liturgy at Agia Sophia, celebrating the church’s feast day. Key figures in attendance included Mr. Stavros Christakos, the Deputy Mayor of Monemvasia; Dr. Dimosthenis Kordos, a Cultural Studies scholar from the University of the Peloponnese and founder of the Cultural Institute of Messinia; Professor Massimo Cazzulo, a Classical Philology expert at the University of Milan and President of the Italian Philhellenic Society; and former Mayor Mr. Nektarios Mastoropoulos.
Researcher Mr. Panagiotis Lalousis spoke about the historical significance of the ancient olive tree, which he had proposed for inclusion in the network through extensive historical documentation. He emphasized the tree’s strategic location atop the historic rock, allowing it to «oversee» the ships involved in the Greek naval struggle against the Ottoman fleet, as well as those navigating the waters of Cape Maleas and the Myrtoan Sea. He noted that the estimated age of this monumental tree coincides with the establishment of the Agia Sophia church in 1150.
In his concluding remarks, Lalousis highlighted the experiential aspect of studying history, inviting attendees to reflect on the Greek leaders who may have gathered in the shade of this historic olive tree and the discussions that might have taken place two centuries ago among the commanders of Monemvasia, including the legendary admiral Konstantinos Kanaris.
The ceremony proceeded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by Deputy Mayor Mr. Stavros Christakos, Mr. Panagiotis Lalousis, Dr. Dimosthenis Kordos, Brigadier General Mr. Georgios Zorbas, the commander of the Supply and Transport Training Center in Sparta; Mr. Ioannis Kostakos, the deputy commander of the Monemvasia Port Authority; Mr. Nektarios Gagkas, the commander of the Monemvasia Police Station; and Father Georgios Kampras.
In a particularly symbolic gesture, the unveiling of the Greek flag was presented by researcher Mr. P. Lalousis to Brigadier General Mr. Georgios Zorbas, concluding the ceremony with the attendees singing the National Anthem.
This event not only honored the historical significance of the olive tree but also reinforced the cultural heritage of Monemvasia, a town steeped in history and resilience. The olive tree stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Greek people and their rich historical narrative.
