Battle of Maniaki: What Happened
On 20 May 1825, a small Greek force led by Gregorios Dikaios, known as Papaflessas, fought the Egyptian army of Ibrahim Pasha at Maniaki, a village in Messenia in the southwestern Peloponnese. Papaflessas was a priest, a leading member of the Filiki Eteria and minister of the interior. With Ibrahim advancing after the capture of the fortress of Navarino, Papaflessas gathered a force of around 2,000 men and took up a position on the hills at Maniaki to try to stop him. As the battle approached, many of his men deserted, leaving him with a few hundred fighters to face a far larger and well-trained army. They fought to the end. Papaflessas and most of his men were killed. According to tradition, Ibrahim was so impressed by his bravery that he had his body cleaned and propped up against a tree, and he kissed it as a mark of respect. Although it was a defeat, the battle became a symbol of courage and sacrifice. A monument to Papaflessas stands at Maniaki today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Battle of Maniaki?
The Battle of Maniaki, on 20 May 1825, was fought in Messenia between a small Greek force led by Papaflessas and the Egyptian army of Ibrahim Pasha.
Who was Papaflessas?
Papaflessas, born Gregorios Dikaios, was a priest, a key member of the Filiki Eteria and minister of the interior, who helped start the revolution.
How did Papaflessas die?
Many of his men deserted before the battle, and Papaflessas fought with a few hundred men against a far larger army. He and most of his men were killed.
What did Ibrahim Pasha do after Maniaki?
According to tradition, Ibrahim was so impressed by Papaflessas's bravery that he had his body cleaned, propped against a tree and kissed it in respect.
Where is Maniaki?
Maniaki is a village in Messenia, near Gargalianoi and not far from Pylos. A monument to Papaflessas stands there today.
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