IMMA Commemorates the Macedonian Struggle 2026

The Foundation of the Museum for the Macedonian Struggle and the Modern History of Macedonia (IMMA) once again commemorates the Macedonian Struggle, highlighting the importance of historical memory and the preservation of historical knowledge for younger generations. Through its work in researching, documenting and promoting the history and cultural heritage of Macedonia, the Foundation contributes to contemporary dialogue about the past and its significance for both the present and the future.

Macedonian Struggle Remembrance Day is dedicated to commemorating the struggles and sacrifices of the Greeks for the liberation of Macedonia. It is observed every year on the first Sunday after 13 October, the date of the death of Pavlos Melas in 1904 in Statista (present-day Melas), Kastoria. The death of this emblematic figure of the Macedonian Struggle established him as a symbol of the cause and as an example of self-sacrifice and devotion to his homeland. Through the Museum’s permanent collection and educational programmes, the Foundation presents his life and activities, as well as those of other prominent figures of the Struggle.

This year, IMMA is participating in the events organised by the Region of Central Macedonia in Thessaloniki for “Macedonian Struggle Remembrance Day”, on Sunday, 18 October 2026, with:

• the participation of IMMA Director Athina Pavlidou in the official doxology service and the wreath-laying ceremony at Makedonomachon Square;
• free admission and complimentary guided tours for the public at the Museum for the Macedonian Struggle on Sunday, 18 October, at the following times:

11:00–11:45
12:00–12:45
13:00–13:45

Furthermore, as part of the commemorative events honouring the Macedonian Struggle and its pioneer, Pavlos Melas:

• The Municipality of Oreokastro and IMMA, continuing their cooperation aimed at promoting local history, are organising a lecture on Monday, 12 October at 18:30, at the “Pavlos Melas” building in Palaiokastro, by IMMA Research Associate and Historian Dr Konstantinos S. Papanikolaou, entitled “The Macedonian Struggle after Pavlos Melas.”

Opening remarks will be delivered by the Mayor of Oreokastro, Mr Pantelis Tsakiris, and the Director of IMMA, Ms Athina Pavlidou.

• The Association “Friends of the Museum for the Macedonian Struggle” is organising a major commemorative concert on Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 18:00, at the Ceremonial Hall of the University of Macedonia.

Your presence at IMMA’s commemorative events would be a great honour to us.