Annexation of Thessaly: What Happened
In 1881, Greece gained the fertile region of Thessaly and the district of Arta in southern Epirus from the Ottoman Empire, the first major expansion of its mainland territory since independence. The change came out of the Congress of Berlin in 1878, where the European powers redrew the map of the Balkans after a war between Russia and the Ottoman Empire. Greece had not taken part in the war but pressed its claims to Greek-populated lands. The Congress invited the Ottomans to negotiate a new border with Greece, and after long and difficult talks, the Convention of Constantinople was signed in 1881 with the support of the great powers. Greece received almost all of Thessaly, including the cities of Larissa, Volos and Trikala, and the area around Arta, though Epirus, including Ioannina, remained Ottoman. Thessaly's plains were among the most productive farmland in the Balkans, and its addition significantly increased Greece's size, population and agricultural output. The annexation encouraged hopes of further expansion and strengthened the Megali Idea, the dream of uniting all Greeks in one state.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Thessaly become part of Greece?
Thessaly became part of Greece in 1881, under the Convention of Constantinople, along with the district of Arta in southern Epirus.
How did Greece gain Thessaly?
At the Congress of Berlin in 1878, the European powers invited the Ottomans to negotiate a new border with Greece, leading to the 1881 agreement.
Which cities joined Greece in 1881?
Cities that joined Greece in 1881 included Larissa, Volos and Trikala in Thessaly, and Arta in Epirus.
Why was Thessaly important?
Thessaly's plains were among the most productive farmland in the Balkans, greatly increasing Greece's size, population and agricultural output.
Did Greece gain Ioannina in 1881?
No. Most of Epirus, including Ioannina, remained Ottoman until the First Balkan War, when Greece captured it in February 1913.
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