In an atmosphere of deep emotion and reverence, the funeral service for the distinguished Byzantinist and academic Eleni Glykatzi-Arveler was held at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens. She was one of the most emblematic figures of Greek letters and a personality of global standing in the international scholarly community.
Leading figures of the Greek state and political life were present to pay their final respects, including the President of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni. Representatives of the academic, intellectual, and artistic worlds also attended, reflecting the breadth of her influence and the respect she commanded across disciplines.
According to protothema.gr, funeral orations were delivered by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and President Konstantinos Tasoulas. In their tributes, they highlighted her outstanding scholarly work, her international reputation, and her multifaceted contribution to culture and education. They also spoke of her personal integrity, intellectual depth, and profound love for Greece and Byzantium, which defined both her academic path and her public presence.
Eleni Glykatzi-Arveler passed away at the age of 99, leaving behind a powerful intellectual legacy that shaped generations of scholars and enriched the global understanding of Byzantine civilization.
The Holy Synod of the Church of Greece also issued a statement on her repose, noting that “the Church of Greece recognizes in her the academic who highlighted the historical continuity of Hellenism and its inherent bond with the Orthodox Church, affirming that Byzantine civilization constitutes a defining element of Europe’s spiritual identity.” The Synod further offered prayers “that the Lord of life and death may grant rest to the soul of His departed servant and count her among the righteous, bestowing heavenly consolation upon her loved ones.”
Photos: EUROKINISSI, Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
