24.5.2021

The temporary exhibition "REVOLUTION '21 REFRAMED: EPIRUS"

The temporary exhibition "REVOLUTION '21 REFRAMED: EPIRUS"

The exhibition is extended until January 31, 2022

The Piraeus Bank Group Cultural Foundation (PIOP) and the National Historical Museum (NHM) present the temporary exhibition "REVOLUTION '21 REFRAMED: EPIRUS" in the Silversmithing Museum in Ioannina. The exhibition, included in the anniversary programme of NHM titled "REVOLUTION '21 REFRAMED" and in the framework of the Anniversary Activities by Piraeus Bank for the bicentennial of the 1821 Revolution, takes place under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and Sports.


Ioannina, as the cultural centre of Modern Greek Enlightenment, as the political centre of the strongest pashalik in the Ottoman possessions on European territory and as a diplomatic and commercial hub, played a great role in preparing the conditions for the Revolution. Souli, igniting the first spark of the revolution even before the start of the Struggle, despite its annihilation, has remained in history as a significant timeless pole of resistance. 

Epirus, prominent in arms, in monies and in letters, provided the leading figures of Filiki Eteria (Society of Friends), the legendary fighters, the great teachers of the Nation, the politicians and national benefactors who would build the new Hellas.

The exhibition in the Silversmithing Museum highlights the course of Epirus and Ioannina towards the Revolution. In the iconic venue of Its Kale, it sheds light on aspects such as the Modern Greek Enlightenment and the growth of trade, the despotic rule of Ali Pasha, the establishment of Filiki Eteria, the outbreak of the Revolution and the contribution of Epirus, political maturity, civil war and the establishment of the Greek State with Kapodistrias as Governor. Epirus remained outside the Greek territory and faced great difficulties, despite the active participation of numerous Epirots in the political, economic and military life of the newly founded state.

Unique national heirlooms from the rich collections of NHM "return" to their homeland. Among them, the dress of Lady Frosyni, the purse of Lady Vasiliki, the flintlock of Ali Pasha, the banner-flag from Epirus, the sword of Zachomilios, the pipe of Athanasios Tsakalof, the plate with an inscription hand-written by Markos Botsaris. Also exhibited are the signet ring of Theodoros Kolokotronis, the wooden case with chess figures that belonged to Alexandros Ypsilantis, the vest of Ioannis Makrygiannis and one of his paintings, rare documents, paintings and engravings.

 
Vest of Ioannis Makrygiannis  © HESG-NHM                 Chess of Alexandros Ypsilantis © HESG-NHM 

The exhibition "REVOLUTION '21 REFRAMED: EPIRUS" is a "satellite" of the central exhibition by NHM in Athens, in the Old Parliament building. Soon to follow are the exhibitions "REVOLUTION '21 REFRAMED: DIMITSANA" (Open-Air Water Power Museum, 11.6-29.11.2021) and "REVOLUTION '21 REFRAMED: CHIOS" (Chios Mastic Museum, 2.7-10.9.2021).

Duration of the exhibition: 29 May-29 November 2021
Extension to January 31, 2022
Opening hours: Daily, except Tuesday, 10:00-18:00 (until 15/10), 10:00-17:00 (from 16/10)
Closed: 15 August

The Silversmithing Museum
Acropolis of Its Kale, Castle of Ioannina, 452 21 Ioannina
Τ: 26510 64065 | www.piop.gr

Communication sponsors of the Anniversary Programme "REVOLUTION '21 REFRAMED"
by NHM