Sofia Ps.
Antiquarianism and Philhellenism; a virtual visit
The 25th of March is a very special day for Greece. On this day we remember and celebrate the declaration of the revolution against the Ottoman Empire, which had conquered the Greeks and occupied their land for 400-500 years. The Greeks tried to fight back and be liberated but failed every time. However, the Revolution of 1821 succeeded! So, Greece, after the Greek War of Independence, became a free, independent country in 1830.
Bicentenary celebration
This year, the celebration is extra special! It’s been 200 years since then, so today we celebrate the bicentenary of the declaration which eventually led to our freedom. There are going to be SO many events and exhibitions and many more things throughout the whole year, that it’s impossible for me to tell you about everything that’s happening.
An exhibition at the Museum of Cycladic Art
For now, I’d like to share a really nice virtual experience, where you can know more about the European perspective of the Greek War through art. More specifically, European art was inspired by events of the revolution as well as the classical past and legacy of the Greek fighters. I’m talking about the “Antiquarianism and Philhellenism: The Thanassis and Marina Martinos Collection” temporary exhibition. This rare and original exhibition is at the Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens, but you can also visit it online!
Virtual experience
On the micro-website 1821.Cycladic.gr, which was created especially for this, you can find information about the exhibition, a wonderful video of the curators’ guided tour (in Greek with English subtitles), a gallery with the objects, and even a shop!
Of course, if you prefer to delve deeper and explore the exhibition yourself the museum offers a virtual tour. It’s really easy and fun to “walk” (it’s one of the most user-friendly systems I’ve ever used and all the information is given in both Greek and English) and discover several interesting objects and amazing stories.
Ancient greek art & philhellenic art
At the “Antiquarianism and Philhellenism” exhibition you’ll learn more about the so-called philhellenic art through a rich collection of enchanting and elegant artworks created by Europeans, supporters of the Greeks and admirers of their ancient past.
Additionally, you’ll have the chance to see authentic antiquities, which inspired philhellenic art. Many of them are truly stunning.
Last but not least, as you take a tour of this superb exhibition, check out the surroundings and the building itself. Even if you only visit this place online, you still get a nice glimpse of this gorgeous Neoclassical mansion, designed by Ernst Ziller in the late 19th century.
It’s a unique opportunity to see the interior of an actual haut-bourgeois European residence of the 19th century while living a theatrical experience.
The Greek War of Independence is a really important part of Greek history and -I believe- a really interesting one! The best way to know more about it is through the authentic objects and the fascinating stories you’ll learn in museum exhibitions. And now, because of the option of virtual tours, you don’t even have to wait to start exploring!
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