The Monument of the Unknown Soldier in Syntagma Square, Athens, stands as a solemn tribute to Greek soldiers who died in war, akin to similar memorials worldwide. It has witnessed moments of deep reverence, historical controversy, and even acts of vandalism over its nearly century-long existence.
The Unknown Soldier Monument’s origins and construction
The monument’s history dates back to the late 19th century when Greece, following the example of other nations, sought a memorial for its unknown fallen soldiers. The idea took shape after World War I, leading to the selection of a site in front of the Old Palace (now the Hellenic Parliament).
A competition was held in 1926, and the winning design, submitted under the pseudonym “Skra” by architect Emmanuel Lazaridis, was approved. The decision to build it at Syntagma Square sparked debate, but Prime Minister Eleftherios Venizelos ultimately settled the dispute.
The monument features a reclining ancient Greek warrior in a helmet, holding a circular shield. Surrounding inscriptions list battle sites where Greek forces fought, from the Balkan Wars to World War II, the Korean War, and even the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus.
In 2015, the names of seas—Aegean, Ionian, Mediterranean, and Atlantic—were added to honor Greek sailors lost in war. The inscriptions draw inspiration from Thucydides: “An empty bed is carried strewn with the unknown” and “The grave of eminent men is everywhere.”
Unveiled on March 25, 1932, the monument’s opening was attended by dignitaries from the US, France, Italy, and Turkey, among others.
Initially guarded by a presidential unit, its protection has since been entrusted to the Evzones of the Presidential Guard, whose disciplined ritual draws admiration worldwide.
Critics slam construction of the Unknown Soldier
At the time of its unveiling, the monument faced significant criticism. For many, and certainly for the fiercely critical press of the era, it was a flashpoint.
The Association of Greek Sculptors didn’t mince words, branding it a “vile work at the expense of Greek art.” Period newspapers amplified this outrage with vulgar headlines screaming of a “monstrosity” and an “obscenity.” It’s a jarring reality: a monument now so integral to the Athenian landscape was initially met with vehement rejection, its radical reshaping of the square—replacing the dense foliage before the Old Palace—proving particularly contentious.
Fueling this fierce opposition was the monument’s staggering cost: 6.5 million drachmas in a nation grappling with hardship. This wasn’t simply about the artistic merit: the extensive earthworks required to lower the square by a dramatic seven meters, relative to the present Parliament, proved a lengthy and complex undertaking with the limited technology of the time. The necessity of bringing in specialized French artisans further inflated the already considerable expense.
A defiant tribute during the German occupation
Despite initial resistance, the monument soon became a defining symbol of national memory. It played a central role in the celebrations following Greece’s liberation from Nazi occupation in 1944 and has since hosted countless dignitaries and ceremonies.
On the morning of October 29, 1941, amidst the German occupation, 50-60 disabled Greek war veterans—many missing limbs, some in wheelchairs, others on crutches—gathered before the monument. Initially confronted by Italian carabinieri, their resolute presence commanded respect, and they were allowed through. Three of them laid a simple laurel wreath, and one, barely able to stand, addressed the fallen heroes:
“Dead heroes, our brothers, we have much to tell you, but under these circumstances, we cannot speak aloud. You, however, do not need words to understand us.”
A heavy silence fell before he concluded, “Now we have told you everything. We are sure you felt us.”
This powerful moment was documented by journalists Achilleas and Kyros Kyrou, who called it one of the most moving tributes ever paid at the monument.
Monument of the Unknown Soldier: Vandalism and challenges
Despite its revered status, the monument has suffered multiple acts of vandalism, often linked to political protests.
On March 25, 2025, after Independence Day celebrations, a woman was arrested for defacing it with slogans. In May 2017, masked protesters threw Molotov cocktails at the Evzone guard post.
One of the most shocking incidents occurred in October 2021 when a 48-year-old farmer, suffering from psychological issues, drove his truck onto the sidewalk near the monument, threatening to detonate explosives. Police found a gas cylinder and a gasoline can in his vehicle.
The nadir arrived with the Indignant demonstrations (May-November 2011), a period where the nation buckled under austerity’s weight. This “black” chapter saw Athens’ center consumed by daily unrest, exploited by shadowy elements that choked economic life. Alarmingly, this volatile climate directly threatened the Unknown Soldier monument and even the physical safety of the Evzones, amidst scores of injuries to both protesters and police, assaults on political figures, and widespread destruction that scarred even the sacred ground around the tomb.
Despite such events, the monument remains a powerful symbol of national memory, drawing dignitaries from around the world. In 2021, Prince Charles laid a wreath to mark the 200th anniversary of the Greek War of Independence.
Nearly a century after its unveiling, the Monument of the Unknown Soldier remains an enduring symbol of sacrifice. While it has weathered controversies, political turmoil and acts of defacement, it continues to stand as a place of solemn tribute, where history, honor, and memory intersect in the heart of Athens.
Related: The Fascinating History of Syntagma Square in Athens