Friday, April 3

Swiss Dentist Julien Grivel Granted Honorary Greek Citizenship Greek City Times


In a powerful tribute to a lifetime of compassion and service, Swiss dentist Julien Grivel has been awarded honorary Greek citizenship, recognising decades of voluntary work treating some of Greece’s most marginalised patients.

The honour was formalised through a presidential decree published in the Government Gazette (FEK) on March 17, underscoring the Greek state’s recognition of individuals who have profoundly contributed to society.


A lifetime of service to the forgotten

Grivel, now 83, devoted much of his life to caring for patients suffering from Hansen’s disease (leprosy) at the Agia Varvara Hospital of Infectious Diseases.

Beginning in 1972, he travelled from Switzerland to Greece twice a year for 26 consecutive years, offering specialised dental treatment free of charge to patients who were often isolated and stigmatised.

His work did more than provide medical care — it restored dignity to individuals frequently overlooked by society.


A modern philhellene

Over the decades, Grivel became widely recognised for his humanitarian contribution, earning honours from the Academy of Athens, the Greek Parliament, and several municipalities, including Agia Varvara, as well as institutions in Switzerland.

His unwavering commitment to Greece and its people has led many to describe him as a modern philhellene — someone whose actions embody a deep love and respect for the country.


His story on the big screen

Grivel’s remarkable journey was brought to life in the documentary “Sculpted Souls”, directed by Stavros Psillakis.

The film was screened at the Thessaloniki International Documentary Festival, where it received the prestigious FIPRESCI Award for Best Greek Film, further highlighting his extraordinary legacy.


A legacy honoured by Greece

The awarding of honorary citizenship is more than a symbolic gesture — it is a national acknowledgment of a man who dedicated his life to serving others without expectation of reward.

Grivel’s story stands as a reminder that humanitarianism transcends borders, and that acts of kindness can leave a lasting imprint on an entire nation.

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Bill Giannopoulos

Junior Editor

Bill Gee is a journalist covering geopolitics, defence and Hellenic diaspora news.



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