The naval heritage of 1821 comes to life in Hydra
If you would like to witness one of Hydra’s most brilliant moments, all you have to do is visit during the Miaoulia festivities: a three-day celebration in honour of the Hydriot admiral Andreas Miaoulis, who placed himself and his ships at the service of the struggle for the liberation of the Greek nation. The celebrations take place every year and culminate on the Saturday closest to 21 June.
Representatives of the Hellenic Navy and officials are present, and on the second day of the events they are formally received at the island’s Town Hall.
The third day is especially moving, when the funerary urn containing the heart of Miaoulis is carried from the Hydra Historical Archive–Museum to the Cathedral for the Divine Liturgy and the doxology service. This is followed by a memorial prayer and the laying of wreaths at the bronze statue of Miaoulis, located on the left-hand side as you enter Hydra harbour, at the top of the bastion.
As the urn returns to the Hydra Historical Archive–Museum, the officials proceed to the pier of the Hydra Merchant Marine Academy and cast wreaths into the sea in honour of the admirals of 1821. Farewell cannon salutes and the national anthem follow.
The celebrations reach their climax in the evening with the re-enactment of the Battle of Gerontas (1824) and the burning of a small replica of the Turkish flagship at the entrance to the harbour, while spectacular fireworks light up the sky.
Beyond the ceremonial part, the Miaoulia festivities also include many other events, from exhibitions and musical performances to sporting contests. If you happen to be in Hydra on those days, you are certain to experience moments of national pride.
Representatives of the Hellenic Navy and officials are present, and on the second day of the events they are formally received at the island’s Town Hall.
The third day is especially moving, when the funerary urn containing the heart of Miaoulis is carried from the Hydra Historical Archive–Museum to the Cathedral for the Divine Liturgy and the doxology service. This is followed by a memorial prayer and the laying of wreaths at the bronze statue of Miaoulis, located on the left-hand side as you enter Hydra harbour, at the top of the bastion.
As the urn returns to the Hydra Historical Archive–Museum, the officials proceed to the pier of the Hydra Merchant Marine Academy and cast wreaths into the sea in honour of the admirals of 1821. Farewell cannon salutes and the national anthem follow.
The celebrations reach their climax in the evening with the re-enactment of the Battle of Gerontas (1824) and the burning of a small replica of the Turkish flagship at the entrance to the harbour, while spectacular fireworks light up the sky.
Beyond the ceremonial part, the Miaoulia festivities also include many other events, from exhibitions and musical performances to sporting contests. If you happen to be in Hydra on those days, you are certain to experience moments of national pride.
