Description
Lord Byron constituted the most emblematic figure of British Philhellenism, inextricably linking his life and oeuvre with the Greek War of Independence of 1821. Following his initial encounter with Greece in 1809, he returned in 1823 to provide tangible support to the Struggle, contributing financial aid, political influence, and military organisation in Messolonghi. His untimely demise there in 1824 elevated him into a global symbol of self-sacrifice, significantly mobilising the Philhellenic movement across Europe and America, and decisively contributing to the ultimate liberation of Greece.
British Philhellenism remained potent even following the establishment of the modern Greek state, supporting Greece during critical historical junctures of the 19th and 20th centuries. In addition, contributed decisively to the country’s territorial integration (the Ionian Islands, Thessaly, Crete, and Epirus), through both the diplomatic endeavors of eminent prime ministers and the ultimate sacrifice of volunteers. As an expression of timeless gratitude, and on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of Lord Byron’s demise, the Society for Hellenism and Philhellenism honours the British contribution through the establishment of the International Lord Byron Prize, the erection the Philhellenes’ Monument in Athens and Messolonghi, and the extensive collection of the Philhellenism Museum in Athens.
The edition presents the birth and evolution of British Philhellenism, with reference to prominent British Philhellenes. The illustration features rare artifacts, historical documents, personal belongings, and unique relics preserved in the Philhellenism Museum. It also includes an alphabetical register with biographies of British Philhellenes.
LORD BYRON, BRITISH PHILHELLENISM
Authors: Konstantinos Velentzas, Dr. Ioannis Chountis de Fabbri
Prefaces: Constantine An. Tassoulas, President of the Hellenic Republic; Nikolaos-Georgios S. Dendias, Minister of National Defence; Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay, Member of the House of Lords, former UK Minister for the Arts and Heritage; Matthew Lodge, HM Ambassador to the Hellenic Republic.
Publisher: Society for Hellenism and Philhellenism (EEF)
First Edition: Athens, June 2026
ISBN: 978-618-85185-2-0
Pages: 184
Notes: Bilingual edition, Greek – English
Dimensions (cm): 24 × 24
Price: €29.00 (Hardcover)
