History Archives - The Leros Way

History

The Dual Soul of Greece’s Protomagia (May 1st)

In Greece, May 1st is a profound collision of two worlds: the sweet scent of wildflowers and the defiant spirit of labor. From the ancient tradition of weaving May wreaths to the solemn tribute of International Workers’ Day, Protomagia is...

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The Leros Way

History

November 17: A Milestone for Democracy in Greece

November 17 is one of the most significant dates in modern Greek history. On this day, Greece commemorates the Polytechnic Uprising (also known as the “Athens Polytechnic Rebellion”) of 1973, […]

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The Leros Way

Culture & Heritage, Daily life in Leros, History

October 28th – Oxi Day – on Leros

Leros celebrates OXI Day with parades, ceremonies, and joyful gatherings of families honoring Greece’s spirit of freedom....

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The Leros Way

Daily life in Leros

15 Fascinating Facts About Leros

Discover Leros through 15 fascinating facts - its history, villages, festivals, tunnels, shipwrecks, and traditions. Explore the island’s unique culture with workshops, tours, and local experiences....

Written by

Shira Halperin

Museums

Discovering the Military History of Leros: Exploring the War Museum of World War II

Discover the history of World War II at the War Museum in Leros, Greece. Explore a collection of artifacts, exhibits, and documents that provide a unique insight into the battles, resistance movements, and civilian experiences of the conflict. From weapons...

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The Leros Way

History

The Dodecanese Volunteer Regiment: A Fight for Freedom and National Independence

The Dodecanese Volunteer Regiment is one of the most remarkable chapters of the Greco-Italian War. Despite the Dodecanese Islands being under Italian occupation since 1912, this did not stop the Dodecanesian people from actively participating in the struggle for Greek...

Written by

Nikos Kafentzis

History

The Last Survivors of the “Vasilissa Olga”: A Tale of Valor and Tragedy

On September 26, 1943, the Greek destroyer "Vasilissa Olga" met a tragic fate in the Aegean Sea. Under heavy German air attack, the ship was struck by multiple bombs, resulting in a devastating explosion that claimed the lives of most...

Written by

Nikos Kafentzis

History

Vasilissa Olga: A Leros Legend

Discover the heroic legacy of the Greek destroyer Vasilissa Olga, a symbol of courage and resistance during World War II. Explore its pivotal role in defending Leros, its participation in key naval battles, and its lasting impact on the island’s...

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The Leros Way

History

The Life and Heroic Actions of the Commander of the Destroyer “Queen Olga”

George Blessas, the youngest of five siblings, was born in Argostoli, Kefalonia on October 19, 1905. His parents were Panagis Blessas and Anna Blessas, née Assani, both from old families […]

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Written by

Nikos Kafentzis

History

The Button of the Fallen: Lieutenant Alan Phipps

Explore the heroic story of Lieutenant Allan Phipps (RN), his bravery during the Battle of Leros in WWII, his tragic death, and the legacy left behind. Learn about his family's connection to this history and the discovery of his Royal...

Written by

Nikos Kafentzis

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The Dual Soul of Greece’s Protomagia (May 1st)