A new monument dedicated to Pontic Greeks and the memory of the Pontian Genocide is nearing completion in Lefkopetra, Xanthi. Located at the northern entrance of the village’s central square, the landmark is being built by the Cultural Association of Pontians of Lefkopetra, known as “The Pontian Gyrfalcons.”
For Pontian Greeks, the lyre is far more than a musical instrument. It carries the sound of memory, the voice of ancestors, and the stories of lost homelands. That powerful symbol of Pontic Hellenism is now taking physical form in this Thracian village.
Revived association in a refugee village
The Cultural Association had been inactive for several years until a group of younger residents revived it. One of their first major projects was the construction of a monument honouring their ancestors and the Genocide of the Pontian Greeks.
“A group of young people wanted to give the association new life again. Among the initiatives we decided to undertake was the construction of a monument dedicated to our ancestors and to the Genocide of the Pontian Greeks,” association president Konstantina Navrozidou told ANA-MPA.
Lefkopetra is a refugee village founded by families who settled there after the Asia Minor Catastrophe and the population exchange. Today it has around 700 residents and remains a mixed community where Christians and Muslims coexist while preserving local historical identity.
Design rich in symbolism
The idea originated with association member Vasiliki Kyriakidou. Members raised funds, secured support from the Municipality of Avdira, and contributed extensive voluntary work on construction and landscaping.
Artist and writer Dimitris Avouris from Zakynthos oversaw the overall concept. Sculptor Iordanis Poimenidis designed the central bronze lyre, while Avouris hand-shaped the base from raw white sea marble.
The circular monument features four smaller Pontian lyres around its perimeter, with a large cast bronze lyre approximately 1.30 metres high at the centre. The design highlights the deep connection of Pontian Greeks to music, history and cultural heritage.
“The Pontian lyre is much more than a musical instrument. It represents tradition, memories, customs and images from the homelands our ancestors left behind,” Navrozidou said.
Completion expected by end of summer
Construction is in its final stage. The association aims to finish both the monument and the surrounding area by the end of summer.
Once completed, the monument will stand as a lasting landmark of remembrance for the refugee generations who carried their traditions from Pontus to Thrace, and as a living reminder that historical memory endures when it becomes part of everyday community life.
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