What I can see

This is the bronze equestrian statue of Georgios Karaiskakis. It depicts Karaiskakis at the moment when he pulls his horse’s reigns forcing it to stand still. In an almost upright position, he points towards the battlefield. The work is uneven, especially when comparing the sculpture of the horse with its rider. The monumental pedestal bears the words of Karaiskakis before he died: “I am dying, but you must reconcile and hold our homeland”.

What I can't see

Georgios Karaiskakis was a major figure of the Greek Revolution of 1821, where he became a general after fighting as an “armatole.” He was impulsive and despite Kolokotronis’ objections, took part in many battles against the Turks even when he was seriously ill. He was killed by a gunshot. The sculpture was commissioned with public funds. It was originally planned to be positioned in front of the big fountain of Zappeio but the decision was controversial and it was eventually moved to its current location on Herodou Atticou Street. 

Info

• Address: Zappeion

Bibliography