Honouring Philhellenism in Berlin: A Cultural Evening at the Greek Embassy
Celebrating history and the legacy of the Greek Revolution of 1821
April 01st, 2026
A special evening dedicated to history, cultural memory, and shared heritage took place at the Greek Embassy in Berlin on Saturday, March 28. The event was held to mark the opening of the exhibition “Im Namen der Freiheit – Stuttgart und die griechische Revolution von 1821”, which explores the role of Stuttgart and German supporters during the Greek War of Independence. At its centre was a tribute to the German Philhellenes, individuals who supported the Greek cause in 1821. An event that highlighted a historical moment that laid the foundations for enduring cultural ties between Greece and Germany.
The event brought together representatives of diplomatic, academic, and community life, highlighting the enduring ties between Greece and Germany. Among those who addressed the audience were the Greek Ambassador to Germany, Alexandros Papaioannou, Secretary General for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy Maira Myrogianni, and leading figures of the Greek diaspora in Berlin, including Konstantinos Kachrimanidis, Panagiotis Matlis, Nikos Xenidis, and Georgios Chatziogiannis.
A central moment of the evening was the speech by Miltos Pechlivanos,Professor of Modern Greek Studies at Freie Universität Berlin, who shed light on the Philhellenic movement in Germany during the Greek War of Independence. His presentation highlighted the historical significance of German support for the Greek cause and the broader cultural and intellectual connections that emerged during that period.
The event also featured a vibrant cultural programme, with traditional Pontic and Cretan dances performed by dance groups and musicians. These performances brought the evening to life, connecting historical remembrance with living cultural expression and reinforcing the richness and diversity of Greek heritage.
By combining historical reflection with cultural celebration, the evening at the Greek Embassy focused on the lasting importance of Philhellenism as a bridge between Greece and Germany. It served not only as a tribute to the past but also as a reminder of the enduring cultural ties that continue to unite communities today.
