Greek Banks donate €500,000 for restoration of historic Zografeion Lyceum in Istanbul

Greek banks have donated €500,000 to support the restoration and seismic reinforcement of the historic Zografeion Lyceum, one of the most important educational institutions of the Greek Orthodox minority in Istanbul.

According to reports in the Greek press, the donation was coordinated by the Hellenic Bank Association following a request by the Beyoğlu Greek Orthodox Churches and Schools Foundation and the school administration. The initiative aims to preserve Hellenic educational and cultural heritage while ensuring the safety of students and staff amid regional seismic risks.

Founded in 1893 by philanthropist Christos Zografos, the Zografeion Lyceum has served the Greek community for over 130 years. The school currently has 74 students and requires urgent structural upgrades to continue operating safely.

Papaliaris: “This Support Is for Our Identity and Our Presence”

Yorgos Papaliaris, President of the Beyoğlu Greek Orthodox Churches and Schools Foundation, said:

“We are following the progress of Zografeion’s restoration and seismic strengthening with great excitement and pride. This project is of multidimensional importance—not only for the school’s infrastructure but also as a source of hope for the continuity and quality of life for the Greek Orthodox community in Istanbul.

We express our heartfelt thanks to the Hellenic Bank Association and its member banks for their generous support. This critical project ensures the building’s safety and reinforces Zografeion’s role as a beacon of Greek education in Istanbul. Zografeion is a symbol of education, history, and the spirit of Greek identity. Supporting this project means supporting our identity, our presence, and our dignity. We hope this initiative inspires others to join us in sustaining our mission in education with transparency and collective resolve.”

Hardouvelis: “A Historical Responsibility”

Gikas Hardouvelis, President of the Hellenic Bank Association, also commented:

“This is a historical responsibility. Supporting Zografeion is a way to honor our roots and preserve a living symbol of education and culture for future generations.”