A new digital archive dedicated to Theodoros Kolokotronis launched, providing public access to nearly 1,150 historical documents related to the Greek War of Independence.
The online platform kolokotronis-archive.org includes manuscripts and archival material dated between October 1819 and September 1833, offering researchers and the wider public insight into the life, military action and historical legacy of one of the most prominent leaders of the Greek Revolution.
The Theodore Kolokotronis Archival Portal was officially presented on Monday, 23 March, during a special event at the Megaron – The Athens Concert Hall, attended by Konstantinos Tasoulas.
The digital repository was created by the non-profit organisation Archive of Theodoros Kolokotronis AMKE, established to preserve, study and promote the archival collection assembled by the Michael N. Stasinopoulos Foundation-Viohalco and the KIKPE Foundation. Scientific documentation and development of the archive were carried out in collaboration with the Institute of Historical Research.
The core of the collection includes Kolokotronis’ correspondence with administrative and military authorities, fellow fighters and members of his family. The number of documents increased significantly after 1825, when Kolokotronis assumed the position of General Commander of the Peloponnese forces.
Gennaios Kolokotronis, the second son of Kolokotronis, played a decisive role in preserving valuable documents from public archives and private collections, some of which he used in his publications and memoirs. Following his death, the archive became fragmented, a gap the digital repository now aims to bridge by bringing together manuscripts and material evidence into thematic collections.
During the event, President Tasoulas highlighted Kolokotronis’ decisive role in key moments of the Greek War of Independence, including the liberation of Kalamata, the Battle of Valtetsi, the capture of Tripolitsa and the defeat of Dramali’s army at the Dervenakia pass. He emphasised Kolokotronis’ strategic intelligence, adaptability and dedication to education and national progress following independence.
Michail Stasinopoulos, president of the Michael N. Stasinopoulos Foundation-Viohalco and initiator of the project, stated that much of the archive had remained largely inaccessible, with approximately one third of the documents previously unpublished.
He also outlined plans for the next phase of the initiative, which includes housing the archive in a renovated listed building on 3rd September and Marni Street in Athens. The space is expected to open to the public within approximately two and a half years as a modern museum and archival centre dedicated to research and education on the Greek Revolution.
The archive also issued an open invitation to institutions and individuals who possess documents or objects related to Kolokotronis to submit them for digitisation and study. After digitisation, the materials will be returned to their owners.
Nikolaos Papazarkadas, director of the Institute of Historical Research, highlighted the contribution of the research team in documenting and developing the archival material, emphasising the importance of preserving historical sources for national historiography.
Participants in the discussion included historians, academics and researchers who explored Kolokotronis’ role and influence on the Greek Revolution, stressing that his leadership proved instrumental in the success of the independence struggle.
greekcitytimes.com.
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