Armatomenoi Moraites – Nafplio 1822 – Staikos Staikopoulos

The Armatomenoi (Armed) Moraites Association was founded in 2020 in the Municipality of Nafplio by Konstantinos Dimoulis. It aims is to exalt patriotic sentiment whilst highlighting the historical events of the Greek revolution of 1821, its heroes and especially Staikos Staikopoulos, conqueror of the Palamidi Fortress.

Proud and deeply influenced by the history of his city, Konstantinos Dimoulis wanted to establish an association of individuals who honour and respect the past and believe in keeping tradition alive in the present. As expected, a significant number responded, resulting in the association currently boasting 70 active members.

The Armatomenoi Moraites march proudly, dressed in their traditional Moraitic costumes from the Peloponnese, bearing seven flags that symbolise important facets of their history. The gentlemen of the association don the traditional ‘foustanellas’, (traditional pleated skirt-like garments) equipped with ‘Karyophiles’ (rifles), ‘Koumpouras’ (pistols) and ‘Pala’ (swords). The ladies dress in traditional costumes, from more elaborately decorated garments to simpler versions, often embellished with buttons.

The association made its inaugural appearance on October 28, 2021, in Nafplio. Since that time, it has been actively involved in various commemorative events significant to the area, including the celebration of the city's liberation on November 30 at Palamidi, the memorial event honouring Ioannis Kapodistrias, and the parade held on March 25, marking the anniversary of the Greek revolution. They attended Zatouna, the birthplace of the hero Staikos Staikopoulos, Astros Kynourias, for the anniversary of the 3rd National Assembly, Thessaloniki for the October 28 parade, and Tripoli for the anniversary of its liberation.

The association, in collaboration with the Municipality of Nafplio, organised a painting exhibition at the Parliament in March 2022, focusing on the hero Staikos Staikopoulos. Additionally, another painting exhibition took place at the War Museum in November 2022, where, after 197 years, the sword of our Hero—the only surviving relic, in Agia Triada of Tinos—was returned and displayed in Nafplio.

In 2024, a new section was established in the association, for ‘Philhellenes’ – foreign nationals residing in our country who hold a deep respect for our history and honour our heritage.