Following its signing by Prince Albert II in Monaco last April during the Grand Prix Maria Callas Monaco Gala and Awards, a monument dedicated to the historical educator Emmanuel Kisthinios was officially unveiled on 9th August at his birthplace in Kastellorizo, with Greek parliamentary officials, politicians, and military figures gathering for the portside ceremony.
The sculpture, created by local artist Marcos Marin, was unveiled in Monaco on 24th April during an award ceremony, which formed part of a wider tribute to the legacy of Kisthinios, who is regarded by supporters as an important figure in Greek education and cultural history.
Several months later, on 9th August, the statue was transported to Kastellorizo and installed at the island’s harbour, the birthplace of Emmanuel Kisthinios. The unveiling ceremony was conducted by Vasilis Upsilantis, First Dean of the Greek Parliament, in the presence of political representatives, military officials and local attendees.
Cultural links and legacy
According to information provided by Dr. Christos Nikolopoulos, the ceremony celebrated both the return of the monument to Kastellorizo and the cultural links forged through its presentation in Monaco earlier this year.
The installation now provides a permanent tribute to Kisthinios at one of the island’s most prominent locations, overlooking the port and serving as a focal point for visitors arriving in Kastellorizo. The project also highlights the continuing cultural connections between Monaco and the eastern Mediterranean island, which has long maintained strong ties with its diaspora and supporters abroad.
While details of the commissioning and funding of the monument have not been publicly disclosed, organisers say the statue was intended to honour the life and achievements of Emmanuel Kisthinios and to preserve his legacy for future generations.
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The unveiling of the Emmanuel Kisthinios statue during the ‘Grand Prix Maria Callas Monaco Gala & Awards’. Photo credit: Studio Panoulis