1797 pamphlet by Rigas Feraios depicting a central portrait of Alexander the Great surrounded by war scenes and portraits of his generals Seleucus, Antigonus, Cassander, and Ptolemy

Rigas Velestinlis

Statue of Rigas Velestinlis: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Athens Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to the Statue of Rigas Velestinlis in Athens

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Athens, the Statue of Rigas Velestinlis (Rigas Feraios) stands as a monumental tribute to one of Greece’s leading national heroes and intellectual pioneers. Rigas’s revolutionary ideas and writings played a formative role in igniting the Greek War of Independence and shaping the Modern Greek Enlightenment. His vision of freedom, equality, and a democratic Balkan federation continues to resonate in Greece’s cultural identity.

This guide provides detailed insights into the statue’s history, precise location, accessibility, practical visitor information, and recommendations for maximizing your experience. Additionally, it highlights nearby attractions and cultural sites for a comprehensive exploration of Athens’s heritage.

For further planning, refer to the University of Athens Historical Archive, the National Historical Museum, and travel features from Greek City Times.

A traditional Greek Orthodox Good Friday procession in Agonas 1944

Historic city square of Agonas with vintage cars and people from 1946

Portrait of Alexander the Great, a detailed historical political pamphlet illustration

Historic map of Greece by Rigas Velestinlis

General map of Moldavia by Rigas Velestinlis in 1797

Nea Charta map of Vlachia and Transylvania by Rigas Velestinlis 1797 engraving by Franz Müller in Vienna

Greece personified as a woman with Greek War of Independence revolutionaries

Map of Greece highlighting geographical features and neighboring regions

Night vision goggles with multiple eyepieces on a wooden surface

Front cover of Abbé Pietro Metastasio's L'Olimpiade Greek translation by Rigas Velestinlis 1797

Portrait of Rigas Feraios, Greek writer and revolutionary

Ancient artifact donated by Damianos Kyriazis to the Benaki Museum

Portrait of Rigas Feraios inspiring love for Greek freedom

The original Flag of Greece designed by Rigas Feraios in 1797 manuscript

Wall painting of Rigas Feraios by an anonymous artist from Ioannidis Mansion Greece

Portrait sketch of Rigas Velestinlis, also known as Rigas Pheraios, by Matthias Laurenz Gräff in 2023

Cover page of Anthology of Physics printed in Vienna in 1790

Front cover of Rigas Velestinlis's School for Delicate Lovers book printed by J. Baumeister in Vienna

Flag proposed by Rigas Velestinlis-Feraios for pan-Balkan Federation in 1797 with red, white, black colors, three crosses, and club of Hercule

Rigas Ferraios' childhood school in Zagora, Pelion, Greece, colorized postcard from 1920

Portrait of Adamantios Korais and Rigas Feraios, prominent Greek Enlightenment philosophers

Fanciful painting of the 1453 siege and fall of Constantinople by Panagiotis Zografos

Scene from the Greek War of Independence depicting O Rigas planting the seeds of freedom

Page from 1797 revolutionary poem Thurios by Rigas Velestinlis with Greek script

Rigas Velestinlis and Adamantios Korais depicted helping Greece stand on its feet

Portrait of Rigas Feraios, Greek revolutionary and intellectual

Introduction
Historical Background of Rigas Velestinlis
The Statue: Creation, Artist, and Location
Artistic and Symbolic Features
Visiting Information: Hours, Location, and Tickets
Accessibility
Nearby Attractions
Experiencing Rigas’s Legacy: Educational and Cultural Context
Notable Inscriptions and Memorials
Integration into the Urban Landscape
Special Events and Tours
Visuals and Media Suggestions
Practical Visitor Information for Related Exhibits
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Recommendations for a Meaningful Visit
Conclusion
References

Historical Background of Rigas Velestinlis

Rigas Velestinlis (Rigas Feraios; 1757–1798), born in Velestino, Thessaly, was a pioneering figure in the Modern Greek Enlightenment and a seminal voice for liberation from Ottoman rule. His writings—including the famed “Thourios” war hymn and the visionary “Charta of Greece” (1796–1797)—inspired Greeks and Balkan peoples to dream of freedom and equality (Academia.edu, Greek Herald). After being executed in 1798 for his revolutionary activities, Rigas became an enduring symbol of martyrdom and hope (Greek Reporter).

The Statue: Creation, Artist, and Location

Commissioned in 1869 and unveiled in 1871, the marble statue was created by Ioannis Kossos, a prominent Greek sculptor. It stands in the courtyard of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens at 30 Panepistimiou Street, in front of the Propylaea (University of Athens Historical Archive, Greek City Times).

As the first statue erected after Athens became Greece’s capital, it symbolizes the city’s intellectual revival and commitment to freedom. The statue’s dynamic pose, with an outstretched arm and resolute gaze, visually encapsulates Rigas’s ideals.

Artistic and Symbolic Features

Crafted from marble, the statue features Rigas Velestinlis in an expressive stance, right arm extended, symbolizing leadership and vision. Broken chains at his feet represent liberation from oppression. The pedestal bears an inscription by Professor Filippos Ioannou:

«ΣΠΕΡΜΑΤ ΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΙΗΣ Ο ΦΕΡΑΙΟΣ ΣΠΕΙΡΕΝ ΑΟΙΔΟΣ ΚΑΙ Ο ΜΕΝ ΩΛΕΤΟ ΦΕΥ ΣΠΕΡΜΑ Δ ΕΒΛΑΣΤΕ ΜΕΓΑ»
(“Feraios the poet has sown a seed of freedom, he perished but the seed flourished”)
(Poetry Homoludens).

The neoclassical style harmonizes with the University and the adjacent Academy and National Library—collectively known as the “Athenian Trilogy” (Nomadic Matt).

Visiting Information: Hours, Location, and Tickets

Location: National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 30 Panepistimiou St., Athens, Greece (Poetry Homoludens).
Nearest Metro: Panepistimio Station (Line 2, Red Line), a short walk from the statue.

Visiting Hours: Open-air plaza, accessible 24/7.
Admission: Free; no tickets required.
Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds (Kimkim).

Safety Tips:
Central Athens is generally safe, but be mindful of pickpockets in busy tourist areas (Dave’s Travel Pages). Photography is encouraged.

Accessibility

The courtyard is fully wheelchair accessible, with level walkways and ramps. If you require additional assistance, contact the University in advance for support (militarytourism.warmuseum.gr).

Nearby Attractions

Athenian Trilogy: University, Academy of Athens, and National Library (Nomadic Matt).
Syntagma Square: Central square with the Greek Parliament and changing of the guard.
Plaka and Monastiraki: Historic neighborhoods with shops, cafes, and ancient ruins.
National Historical Museum: Home to original artifacts and the “Charta of Greece” (National Historical Museum).

Experiencing Rigas’s Legacy: Educational and Cultural Context

The statue is a focal point for civic and educational activities. The University hosts exhibitions and commemorative events, especially on significant anniversaries such as Rigas’s martyrdom. The National Historical Museum’s exhibits offer original documents and interactive displays on Rigas’s life, the Modern Greek Enlightenment, and the Greek War of Independence.

Notable Inscriptions and Memorials

The statue’s pedestal inscription, referencing the “seed of freedom,” echoes Rigas’s last words:
“I have sown a bountiful seed; the hour is approaching when my nation will enjoy its wonderful fruits.”
(Greek Herald)

Integration into the Urban Landscape

This monument is part of Athens’s extensive network of sites honoring the heroes of the Greek Revolution and Enlightenment. Its neoclassical form complements the city’s architectural heritage, inviting daily engagement with Greece’s historical narrative (Greek City Times).

Special Events and Tours

Commemorative Events: Held on June 24th and during national holidays, featuring speeches and performances.
Guided Tours: Available through local tour operators and the National Historical Museum. Book in advance for multilingual options.

Visuals and Media Suggestions

Capture the statue from varying angles, highlighting its marble details and the University courtyard. Consider alt text such as “Statue of Rigas Velestinlis at University of Athens courtyard” for image optimization. Interactive maps and 360-degree images can further enhance visitor engagement.

National Historical Museum (Old Parliament House, Kapnikareas 10, Athens):

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed Mondays and public holidays
Admission: €8 general, €4 reduced; free for children under 18 and seniors
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
Tours: Multilingual guided tours available by appointment

More details at the National Historical Museum’s official website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entry fee to visit the statue?
A: No, the statue is free and open to the public.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The statue is accessible 24/7 as it is in an open public space.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the courtyard and statue area are fully accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through local operators and the National Historical Museum.

Q: What’s the best time to visit?
A: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds.

Recommendations for a Meaningful Visit

Combine your visit with a walk through the Athenian Trilogy and historic neighborhoods.
Attend commemorative events for a deeper cultural experience.
Read the pedestal inscription and reflect on Rigas’s message of liberty.
Support nearby local businesses and maintain the site’s cleanliness.

Internal Links

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Conclusion

The Statue of Rigas Velestinlis is a powerful emblem of Greece’s journey toward freedom and enlightenment. Its central location, artistic significance, and open access make it an essential destination for anyone exploring Athens’s historical and cultural landscape. Pair your visit with nearby landmarks and museums for a comprehensive appreciation of Greece’s rich heritage.

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