Bust of Manto Mavrogenous

The great-hearted heroine of the Greek Revolution

Born in Trieste, a descendant of a rich and powerful family of merchants, Mavrogenous was well educated, spoke several languages, and developed an intense patriotic spirit. She actively participated in the Revolution of 1821, donating a large part of her property for the commission and equipping of ships, and also for the creation of an infantry division. She also played a significant diplomatic role, using her connections with French and British high society women. She would send them openly patriotic letters, which had the underlying purpose of securing the ethical and material support of the Philhellenes circle of Europe. By order of Ioannis Kapodistrias, she was awarded the rank of Lieutenant General. After the war and her unfortunate love affair with Dimitrios Ypsilantis, Mavrogenous faced financial difficulties until her death in July 1840.

What are the characteristics of the sculpture?

The bust depicts the heroine at a mature age, with long, thick hair and dressed in a military uniform. The uniform includes a shawl, which is tied low, near her waist. The inscription on the base reads: MANTO MAVROGENOUS, 1798-1845. There is a dedicatory plaque on the front of the base, below which a representation of two pistols placed crosswise is attached.

When was the work commissioned and installed?

The crafting of the bust was completed in 2002, and the unveiling took place on 23rd March 2003 in Philhellenes Square, which was the location of the monument until 2015, when it was relocated to Vasileos Konstantinou street, a few metres from the bust of the Nafplion poet Nikos Karouzos, near the OSE Railway Park.