Grand Hotel Ilion Palace in Athens at Stadiou Street and Kolokotroni Square

Theodoros Kolokotronis

Theodoros Kolokotronis Monument: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Comprehensive Guide to Athens Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: The Monument and Its Significance

The Theodoros Kolokotronis Monument stands proudly in the heart of Athens, serving as a lasting tribute to one of Greece’s most celebrated heroes of the Greek War of Independence. Located in Kolokotronis Square, directly in front of the historic Old Parliament House (now the National Historical Museum), this imposing equestrian statue commemorates Kolokotronis’ crucial role in the nation’s fight for freedom from Ottoman rule. The monument not only honors his military leadership but also anchors a vibrant area rich with Greek history, culture, and civic life (National Historical Museum Athens, Visit Greece, Travel.gr).

This guide provides a detailed overview of the monument’s historical and cultural context, practical information for visitors—including hours, ticketing, accessibility, and transport—along with tips for exploring nearby attractions and making the most of your visit to this essential Athens landmark.

Historical Background
Early Life & Family Heritage
Military Experience & Influences
Leadership in the War of Independence
Political Role & Legacy
The Monument: Artistic & Symbolic Features
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility & Getting There
Nearby Sites & Amenities
Cultural Importance & Commemoration
FAQ
Conclusion
Official Sources

Title page of Apology of Kolokotronis and Plapoutas from 1835

Theodor Kolokotroni lying on a parade bed with traditional military attire

Portrait of Theodoros Kolokotronis Greek General and Revolutionary Leader

Portrait of Theodoros Kolokotronis, Greek War of Independence leader

Portrait of Theodore Kolokotronis, Greek general, 1853 oil painting on canvas

Greek revolutionary leader Theodoros Kolokotronis with his soldiers during the Greek War of Independence

Les Quatre Premiers Capitaines de la Morée historic group portrait

Portrait of Kolokotronis and his personal escort in traditional attire

Handwritten letter of Theodoros Kolokotronis to chiliarchos Dimitrakis Plapoutas dated 10 June 1822

Portrait of Theodore Colocotroni, Commander in Chief of the Troops in the Morea, Greek Revolution 1830

Portrait of Theodoros Kolokotronis, Commander in Chief of the Troops in Morea, 1832

Portrait of Theodoros Kolokotronis, Commander in Chief of Greek forces in Morea during Greek War of Independence

Portrait of Theodoros Kolokotronis Greek Revolution Hero

Portrait of Theodoros Kolokotronis Greek revolutionary leader

Portrait of Theodoros Kolokotronis Greek Revolution leader 1770 1843

Portrait of Theodoros Kolokotronis, prominent Greek Revolution member (1770-1843)

Portrait of Theodoros Kolokotronis Greek general

Sketch of Theodoros Kolokotronis, Greek freedom fighter and general field marshal of the 1821 revolution

Portrait of Greek General Theodoros Kolokotronis in historical military attire

Handwritten letter by Theodoros Kolokotronis, Greek War of Independence hero, dated April 27, 1822

Theodoros Kolokotronis gathering victors at lake Lerni after the 1822 battle against Dramalis, fresco artwork

Portrait of François-Charles-Hugues-Laurent Pouqueville in 1835

Historical Background

Early Life & Family Heritage

Born in 1770 in Messenia, Theodoros Kolokotronis was raised in a family renowned for resisting Ottoman domination. The Kolokotronis clan, famous klephts (mountain insurgents), endured generations of conflict and loss—over 80 family members were killed by Ottoman forces. This legacy of resistance was memorialized in Greek folk songs and instilled in Theodoros a profound sense of national identity and duty.

Military Experience & Influences

Kolokotronis’ formative years were shaped by guerrilla warfare and military hardship. He fought as a klepht, later gaining military experience in the Russian Navy and the British Army in the Ionian Islands. Exposure to Western military tactics and the revolutionary ideals of Europe, especially those inspired by the French Revolution, broadened his strategic outlook and leadership abilities.

Leadership in the War of Independence

At 50, Kolokotronis became the de facto leader of the Greek revolutionary forces in the Peloponnese. He masterminded the pivotal siege and capture of Tripolitsa in 1821, a victory that significantly shifted the tide of the Greek War of Independence. Known as the “brain of the war,” he unified rival factions and demonstrated exceptional military acumen, earning comparisons to Odysseus for his cunning and perseverance.

Political Role & Legacy

After the war, Kolokotronis played a key political role in the nascent Greek state, supporting early leaders and advocating for foreign alliances. His relationship with the ruling regency led to imprisonment, but he was later pardoned and spent his final years as a revered figure in Athens. Kolokotronis died in 1843, his legacy forever tied to the birth of modern Greece.

The Theodoros Kolokotronis Monument: Artistic & Symbolic Features

Design & Location

Unveiled in 1904, the bronze equestrian statue of Theodoros Kolokotronis was sculpted by Lazaros Sochos. It depicts Kolokotronis in traditional military dress, astride a powerful horse, with his right arm outstretched—an iconic gesture symbolizing leadership and vision (travel.gr). The statue rests on a marble pedestal, linking the revolutionary hero to Greece’s ancient heritage.

Symbolism

Equestrian Pose: Military leadership and heroism
Outstretched Arm: Defiance and hope
Traditional Attire: Authenticity and connection to the Greek people
Inscription: “Ride on, oh Brave General, on the back of your horse, teaching the nations through the centuries, as to how slaves can become free men” (exploringgreece.tv)

The monument’s placement before the Old Parliament House, itself a symbol of Greek democracy, reinforces Kolokotronis’ enduring influence on the nation’s civic life (Wikipedia).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours & Admission

Monument: Open 24/7, as it is situated outdoors in Kolokotronis Square (militarytourism.warmuseum.gr)
National Historical Museum (Old Parliament):
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00–14:00 (closed Mondays and public holidays; check official website for updates)
- Standard adult ticket: approx. €6; discounts for students, seniors, and children

Accessibility

Monument Area: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and smooth pavements (militarytourism.warmuseum.gr)
Museum: Accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms; some historic rooms may have limited access

Getting There

Metro: Syntagma (Lines 2 & 3), Panepistimio (Line 2), and Omonia (Line 1) stations are nearby
Bus & Tram: Many lines serve Stadiou Street and Syntagma Square (davestravelpages.com)
Taxi: Widely available—ask for “Stadiou 13, Kolokotroni Square”
On Foot: Easily reached from Plaka, Monastiraki, and Syntagma Square

Best Times to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds
National holidays (e.g., March 25, Greek Independence Day) for ceremonies and commemorative events

Nearby Sites & Amenities

National Historical Museum: Artifacts from the Greek Revolution, including Kolokotronis’ personal items (National Historical Museum)
Syntagma Square: Parliament building and the ceremonial changing of the guard
Ermou Street: Popular pedestrian shopping street
Plaka & Monastiraki: Historic districts with shops, cafes, and neoclassical architecture
Cafés & Restaurants: Abundant options around the square and adjacent streets

Cultural Importance & Commemoration

Kolokotronis’ memory is honored annually, especially on Greek Independence Day (March 25), when wreath-laying ceremonies and public gatherings are held at the monument. The site is a focal point for civic rituals and educational activities, reinforcing its role as a central landmark in Greek national identity (greekreporter.com, paigedevanneytravel.blogspot.com).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the monument’s visiting hours?
A: The monument is accessible 24/7.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, visiting the monument is free. The National Historical Museum charges a modest entrance fee.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, both the square and museum are accessible, though some old pavements may be uneven.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Many Athens walking tours include the monument; the museum offers official guided tours in Greek and English (evendo.com).

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: The nearest metro stations are Syntagma, Panepistimio, and Omonia. Numerous buses and trams serve the area.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Non-commercial photography is permitted and encouraged.

Conclusion

The Theodoros Kolokotronis Monument is an essential stop for anyone wishing to connect with Greece’s rich history and cultural heritage. Its central location, free access, and close proximity to other major attractions make it a highlight of any Athens itinerary. Whether you’re drawn by the power of the statue, the stories of the Greek Revolution, or the vibrant city atmosphere, a visit here offers a lasting and meaningful experience.

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Official Sources and Further Information

Image suggestion: Include a high-quality photo of the Theodoros Kolokotronis Monument with the Old Parliament House in the background. Alt text: “Equestrian statue of Theodoros Kolokotronis in Kolokotronis Square, Athens.”