Despite the rain, crowds began gathering early this morning, Sunday, November 17, at the historic Athens Polytechnic building on Patission street to commemorate the 51st anniversary of the 1973 Polytechnic uprising.
Families with children, students, people of all ages, representatives of various organizations and political figures have come together to honor those who lost their lives during the 1973 anti-dictatorship, pro-democracy movement against the military junta.
Celebrations at the Polytechnic school of Athens, for the 51st anniversary of the 1973 Polytechnic students uprising against the military junta then ruling Greece. Athens, Nov. 17, 2024.
A Day of Reflection and Respect
According to reports from the Athens News Agency, the mood was somber yet filled with emotion, especially among those who lived through the events or recall them from memory. Many visitors brought flowers or drawings to place at the monument, explaining the significance of the day to younger generations. “Rain or shine, we promised we’d come, because it’s essential to honor the anniversary of the Polytechnic uprising,” said the father of a six-year-old.
“The emotion is overwhelming. What stands out in my memory is the palpable sense of hope during those days,” shared a woman from the “Polytechnic Generation,” visiting with her daughter and two grandchildren. “This historical event must never be forgotten,” she added. “It’s still relevant today, and we must remember our history because those who forget it are doomed to repeat it.”
(ΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ ΠΑΝΑΓΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ/EUROKINISSI)
Celebrations at the Polytechnic school of Athens, for the 51st anniversary of the 1973 Polytechnic students uprising against the military junta then ruling Greece. Athens, Nov. 17, 2024/
Politicians’ Statements on the 51st Anniversary
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis paid tribute to the uprising in a social media post:
“The message of resistance and the pursuit of justice conveyed by the Polytechnic has not diminished with time. On the contrary, it remains a lasting symbol of progress, not confined to the past nor open to political exploitation. That’s why, 51 years later, it continues to shine—representing our commitment to democracy, unity, and hope for a better future.”
President Katerina Sakellaropoulou noted, “The anniversary of the Polytechnic is a defining moment for our democracy. Today, in the midst of multiple crises for democracy, it reminds us that democracy is our most valuable asset and the unyielding horizon of our social and political existence.”
The President of the Hellenic Parliament, Konstantinos Tasoulas, who laid a wreath earlier in the day, remarked, “The Polytechnic uprising was not only a pivotal act of resistance against the dictatorship, led primarily by youth, but also a reaffirmation of the Constitution that had been overthrown by the regime.”
On his part, Nikos Androulakis, President of PASOK, said, “The Polytechnic uprising holds a rightful and prominent place in modern Greek history, inspiring democratic citizens and those who fight for the integrity of our institutions, the reduction of social inequalities, and a state where the rule of law prevails over the law of the powerful.”
The Polytechnic’s doors remained open until 1:00 p.m. today, when a closed-door memorial event, organized by the Commemoration Committee, took take place. As in previous years, the 51st anniversary will culminate in a march to the American Embassy.
Authorities have implemented strict security measures and traffic restrictions, which will remain in place until Monday, November 18, accompanied by a heavy police presence. Additionally, metro stations at Syntagma, Evangelismos, Megaro Moussikis, and Panepistimio will be closed, with trains passing through without stopping.
