Istanbul’s Zografeion High School visits Ioannina and Albania in tribute to its founder
As part of its 131st anniversary celebrations, Istanbul’s Zografeion Greek High School embarked on a meaningful journey to the homeland of its founder, the Epirus-born philanthropist Hristakis Zografos. The trip, which took place in late April, brought together school administrators, teachers, students, and alumni to explore the founder’s birthplace and early educational roots.
The group of 32 students and 20 alumni began their program on April 22 in Ioannina (Yanya), visiting the Theodoros Papayannis Museum of Contemporary Art. That evening, a panel titled “Ioannina – Istanbul: Past and Present Bridges of Education and Culture” was held at the Dimitris Hacis Cultural Center. Speakers included Zografeion High School Director Yannis Demircoglou, Zografyon Alumni Association President Nikos Kolman, Zosimea School Alumni President Dimitris Panos, and lawyer Yannis Papadimitriou, recipient of the Abdi İpekçi Peace and Friendship Award.
A VISIT OF RESPECT AND MEMORY
The group visited the Zosimea School, where Zografos studied, and received a warm welcome from the staff despite the school being on break. A formal reception was also held at Ioannina City Hall, where Mayor Thomas Begas emphasized Zografos’ lifelong commitment to education, describing it as a legacy that must be honored.
Director Demircoglou described the journey as one of “respect,” highlighting the Greek Orthodox community’s struggle to preserve its identity in Istanbul. “Zografeion is a star that shines through the night. Every Greek soul, every Hellenic spirit, is a gain for us,” he said, moving the audience emotionally.
TRIP TO ALBANIA
On April 24, the group continued to Kestorati, Albania—the birthplace of Zografos—where locals greeted them warmly with traditional Epirus desserts, music, and folk dances. Visits followed to the Dropolis municipality and the village of Gjirokastër (Ergiri).
The delegation also visited the war cemetery in Vuraryates village, where soldiers who died in the Greco-Italian War are buried. Together, they sang the Easter hymn “Christos Anesti” in a moment of reflection and unity.
The journey concluded on April 25 with visits to the ancient theater of Dodoni and the mountain town of Metsovo (Meçovo). Discussions on future educational collaborations were also held during a meeting with Ioannina University Rector Prof. Anna Batistatou.
Closing the visit, Mayor Begas told the students: “The past must inspire us. We must keep Hristakis Zografos’s light alive through cultural cooperation and dialogue. This visit is not an end, but the beginning of a lasting bond.”
Photo: fosfanariou.gr
