The presentation of the role of the Battle of Marathon in world history and the development of modern western civilisation, as a landmark of Greek history is the main theme of a new exhibition. It is being held on the occasion of this year’s anniversary for the 2,500 years since the Battle of Marathon. The exhibition was inaugurated at the peristyle of Vienna City Hall and will be open to the public until November 30th.
The exhibition is held under the auspices of the Mayor and local Governor of the federal state of Vienna Michael Haupl . It was inaugurated by the head of the Cultural Committee of the local parliament Ernst Voler, in the presence of the newly appointed Greek Deputy Mayor of Vienna and deputy local governor, Maria Vassilakou.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by representatives of public life in Austria, leaders of diplomatic delegations, leaders of the Federation of Greek Associations in Austria and other Diaspora organizations, along with the secretary of the World Council of Hellenes Abroad, Olga Sarantopoulou.
The importance of this year’s anniversary of the 2,500 years since the Battle of Marathon was emphasized by the Ambassador of Greece in Austria Panagiotis Zografos in his brief greeting. Professor of the University of Vienna Marion Mayer offered a lecture. She referred to the geopolitical conditions from the Battle of Marathon era and its importance in world history.
Referring to Greek historians, Mayer mentioned the Persian Wars; the Battle which symbolizes a legendary victory and acted as a source of strength for Greeks. She also highlighted the course of soldier Pheidippides who has inspired people all over the world until today.
She also emphasized on the historical importance of the Battle which marked the dissemination of the Greek classical spirit, democracy, liberty, philosophy and humanism in Europe.
The theme of the exhibition at Vienna City Hall focuses on the fact that international ideological movements of the 18th and 19th century and their representatives such as poets, writers, artists were timelessly inspired by the Battle of Marathon.
The exhibition presents archive material ranging from pages, books, and engravings of the 18th century from the collection of researcher and author George Dolianitis. Dolianitis is the owner of one of the largest collections of old and rare publications in Greece.
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