Liberation of Thessaloniki: What Happened
On 26 October 1912, during the First Balkan War, the Greek army entered Thessaloniki, ending nearly five centuries of Ottoman rule. The date is the feast day of Saint Demetrios, the city's patron saint, which gave the event special significance for Greeks. After defeating Ottoman forces at the battles of Sarantaporo and Giannitsa, the Greek army, led by Crown Prince Constantine, advanced on the city. The Ottoman commander, Hasan Tahsin Pasha, recognized that further resistance was hopeless and surrendered the city to the Greeks, avoiding destruction and bloodshed. A Bulgarian army arrived just a day later, hoping to claim the city, and the rival claims raised tensions between the allies that contributed to the Second Balkan War. At the time, Thessaloniki was a diverse, multicultural port city with a large Jewish community, alongside Greeks, Turks, Bulgarians and others. It became part of Greece and grew into its second largest city. The anniversary is celebrated each year in Thessaloniki alongside the feast of Saint Demetrios.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Thessaloniki liberated?
The Greek army entered Thessaloniki on 26 October 1912, during the First Balkan War, ending nearly five centuries of Ottoman rule.
Why is 26 October special in Thessaloniki?
26 October is the feast day of Saint Demetrios, the city's patron saint, so the liberation is celebrated together with the saint's feast every year.
Who surrendered Thessaloniki to the Greeks?
The Ottoman commander Hasan Tahsin Pasha surrendered the city to Crown Prince Constantine, avoiding destruction and bloodshed.
Did Bulgaria want Thessaloniki?
Yes. A Bulgarian army arrived just a day after the Greeks, and rival claims to the city raised tensions that contributed to the Second Balkan War.
What was Thessaloniki like in 1912?
Thessaloniki was a diverse, multicultural port with a large Jewish community, alongside Greeks, Turks, Bulgarians and others. It became Greece's second largest city.
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