Particular emphasis was placed on initiatives marking the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, with participants noting this year’s decision to give special prominence to Thessaloniki in related commemorations, recognising its historic role as a “refuge city” and the presence of a strong Armenian community.

As part of these events, a major concert was co-organised at the Thessaloniki Concert Hall on Thursday, in collaboration with the State Orchestra of Thessaloniki and the Armenian Embassy. Plans for further cultural activities in September to mark the 35th anniversary of Armenia’s independence were also discussed, along with proposals to highlight Armenian heritage in the city.

“The city of Thessaloniki remains a beacon for the Armenian community. We honour the history of the Armenian Community of Thessaloniki and are committed to supporting every initiative that keeps memory alive and strengthens the bonds between our peoples,” Mayor Angeloudis said.

Armenian communities have maintained a continuous presence in Thessaloniki since at least the late Ottoman period, particularly after survivors of the Armenian Genocide arrived in the early 20th century. An estimated one million Armenians were annihilated in the Ottoman Empire between 1915 and 1917. 

In Thessaloniki, Armenians established churches, schools and cultural associations, contributing to the city’s multi-ethnic character. Today, the city remains one of the main centres of Armenian life in Greece, with commemorative events and cultural initiatives central to its public calendar.