Athens has bid a final farewell to legendary Greek singer Marinella, as thousands gathered to honour one of the most iconic voices in the country’s musical history.
The beloved performer, who died aged 88 on March 28, was laid to rest following an emotional funeral service held at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens on Tuesday. Among those in attendance was Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, alongside leading figures from Greece’s cultural, political and social life.
Crowds had begun gathering from early morning to pay their respects during a public viewing at the chapel of Saint Eleftherios. Applause echoed through the cathedral as mourners called out “immortal,” a tribute to Marinella’s enduring legacy. Her sister, daughter Giorgina, and grandchildren Melina and Dimitris stood beside her coffin.
The ceremony was marked by deeply emotional eulogies from two of Greece’s most celebrated artists, Haris Alexiou and Giorgos Dalaras.
Alexiou, speaking through tears, recalled Marinella’s final performance in September 2024 at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, beneath the Acropolis.
“You chose to sing your final farewell there… You gave the last drop of your voice on that stage,” she said, describing the moment as both symbolic and unforgettable.
Dalaras reflected on Marinella’s profound influence on Greek music and his own life, calling her “a second mother” who helped shape his early career.
“You didn’t just leave now,” he said. “You took flight on that stage last September… You opened doors, broke taboos, and created a path others would follow.”
He added that Marinella’s voice was inseparable from the songs she performed, noting that “without her voice, those songs would never be the same.”
Throughout the service, speakers highlighted her fearless character, artistic innovation, and enduring impact across generations of performers.
A message of condolence was also delivered by Archbishop Ieronymos II, who prayed for the repose of her soul.
Prominent attendees included Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, Athens Mayor Haris Doukas, and Parliament Vice President Olga Gerovasilis, alongside leading figures from the arts and media.
The Metropolitan Cathedral was filled with wreaths sent by public figures and institutions, though Marinella’s family had requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the charity “Floga,” which supports children with cancer.
Following the service, Marinella was laid to rest in a private burial at Kifissia Cemetery.
As her body was carried to its final resting place, musicians played her songs “Pote na mi chathis ap’ ti zoi mou” and “Kamia fora” on wind instruments — a final tribute to a voice that defined generations.
