The Greek Orthodox Parish of Milan paid tribute to the victims of the Cypriot tragedy of 1974 on Sunday, October 13, 2024, by hosting the first official commemoration event for the city of Milan and all of Italy.
The memorial services were held at the Holy Church of the Presentation of the Lord and the Akathist Hymn. The morning started with Matins and the Divine Liturgy, followed by a memorial service for the fallen heroes of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries such as the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to Italy, Mr. Georgios Christofides, and a large congregation of faithful.
In the afternoon, the church courtyard was the venue for a touching event titled “HYMN OF MEMORY AND HOPE,” led by Archimandrite Ioannis Batsis. Father Ioannis welcomed the attendees and gave an opening address, followed by speeches from distinguished guests including the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Georgios Christofides, and other notable figures.
The event paid tribute to the sacrifices made in 1974, featuring the presentation of the book “The Shame” by Ms. Vivian Avramidou, an audiovisual tribute, and live music dedicated to Cyprus. Artists from Greece, including Mr. Dimitrios Kalomoiris and Ms. Olga Lefa, participated in the musical tribute. The evening concluded with refreshments provided by the parish women.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
