Arrival of King Otto: What Happened
On 6 February 1833, the 17-year-old Otto of Bavaria arrived at Nafplio aboard a British warship to become the first king of modern Greece. He was welcomed by enthusiastic crowds hoping that the new monarchy would bring order after years of war and anarchy. Otto was the second son of King Ludwig I of Bavaria, a great admirer of ancient Greece, and he had been chosen by Britain, France and Russia at the London Conference of 1832. Because he was not yet of age, a regency of three Bavarian officials governed on his behalf until 1835. They were accompanied by around 3,500 Bavarian soldiers. The regency began building the institutions of a modern state, organizing the administration, courts, army and education system along European lines. However, many Greeks resented the dominance of Bavarian officials, the lack of a constitution and the heavy taxes. Otto himself embraced his new country, wearing traditional Greek dress, but he remained a Catholic, which caused tension in an Orthodox nation. His reign lasted nearly thirty years, until he was overthrown in 1862.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first king of Greece?
The first king of modern Greece was Otto of Bavaria, who arrived at Nafplio on a British warship in February 1833, aged 17.
Why was a Bavarian made king of Greece?
Britain, France and Russia chose Otto, son of King Ludwig I of Bavaria, as a neutral candidate acceptable to all three protecting powers.
Who governed Greece when Otto arrived?
Because Otto was not yet of age, a regency of three Bavarian officials governed on his behalf until 1835, accompanied by about 3,500 Bavarian soldiers.
Did Otto adopt Greek customs?
Otto embraced his new country and often wore traditional Greek dress. However, he remained a Catholic, which caused tension in an Orthodox nation.
How long did King Otto reign?
Otto reigned for nearly thirty years, from his arrival in 1833 until he was overthrown by a revolt in October 1862 and went into exile in Bavaria.
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