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Teaching Ancient Greek as an extra-curricular activity since 1994.

A Living Lesson in History: The Discovery of Constantine Palaiologos’ Portrait

by Eugenia Manolidou

The recent discovery of the unique in vivo portrait of Constantine XI Palaiologos, the last emperor of Byzantium, in the katholikon of the Old Monastery of the Archangels in Aigialeia is an event of global significance for Greek history and culture. The fresco, unearthed by archaeologist Dr. Anastasia Koumousi, dates to the mid-15th century and depicts the emperor with a halo, signifying sainthood. As noted by the Greek Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, the artist likely captured the emperor’s features from life, highlighting both his human and heroic dimensions.

This momentous discovery invites us to revisit our history and draw lessons from it. Constantine XI Palaiologos’ decision to resist until the end during the Fall of Constantinople in 1453 – refusing to surrender the city to Sultan Mehmed II – stands as a supreme act of heroism. Despite the inevitable defeat, the emperor sacrificed himself for the honor and freedom of his homeland, embodying in his own way the spirit of “Freedom or Death,” which would inspire Greeks centuries later during the Revolution of 1821.

The depiction of Constantine Palaiologos as a saint, akin to the deification of Alexander the Great and other leaders of Greek and Roman history, reflects humanity’s enduring need to venerate those who place the common good above their personal lives. It is worth recalling that Alexander the Great was worshipped as a god, while Roman emperors like Augustus were enshrined among the pantheon of heroes, becoming exemplars of political and military virtue.

From Hector to Modern Heroes: A Timeless Tradition

Throughout the millennia of Hellenic history, heroes who sacrificed themselves for their homeland have been a constant source of inspiration and instruction. From Hector, the Iliadic hero who declared, “One omen is best, to defend one’s country,” to Leonidas at Thermopylae, Constantine Palaiologos at the Fall of Constantinople, and the freedom fighters of 1821 and 1940, Greek history is steeped in the ideal of selfless sacrifice for liberty.

The sacrifice of Constantine Palaiologos shares striking similarities with Leonidas and the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae, who fought against overwhelming Persian forces to defend their freedom. In both cases, the battles were lost, yet the heroes achieved eternal recognition. This philosophy also resonates in the naval victory at Salamis, immortalized in the battle hymn “Advance, O sons of the Greeks,” in the defiant “No” of 1940 against Axis powers, and in the Revolution of 1821, where the rallying cry “Freedom or Death” reasserted freedom as the ultimate value of the Greek spirit.

It is no coincidence that the Greek National Anthem uniquely celebrates not the beauty of the land but freedom itself, emerging from “the sacred bones of the Greeks.” The historical trajectory of Hellenism is filled with individuals who chose sacrifice over submission, creating a timeless struggle that forms the foundation of Greek identity.

The discovery of Constantine Palaiologos’ portrait is an archaeological milestone; most of all, his depiction as a saint underscores the moral dimension of heroism, where bravery is accompanied by spiritual elevation.

Relevance in the Age of Technology

Why does this discovery matter today? In an era where technology and artificial intelligence dominate our lives, the need to maintain our connection to our roots and understand the human element is more pressing than ever. The story of Constantine Palaiologos and other heroes who sacrificed for freedom teaches us that, no matter how advanced our tools become, the values that guide us are timeless. Sacrifice, selflessness, and dedication to ideals cannot be replaced by even the most sophisticated machines.

Modern education has shifted its focus toward technology, STEM subjects, and skills for the future. However, children need tools not only to operate machines but also to develop an understanding of human nature, the remarkable achievements of their ancestors, and the culture that shaped them. The stories of Constantine Palaiologos, Leonidas, the Salamis warriors, the revolutionaries of 1821, and the heroes of 1940 are lessons that strengthen critical thinking and moral awareness in young minds.

These stories teach the importance of resisting oppression, valuing freedom, and embracing self-sacrifice for the common good. Such values ensure that technology remains a tool in the service of humanity rather than a force that dominates it.

Teaching the Greek language, history, literature, philosophy, and culture is an investment in cultivating young people with both awareness and vision. It equips them, not only to become competent scientists, but also to emerge as complete, well-rounded individuals.