Mykonos Airport gets a new name in honour of a Greek heroine

It pays tribute to Manto Mavrogenous, a brave woman who fought for the independence of Greece

In 2021, the Greek Municipality of Mykonos proposed to rename Mykonos Airport to mark and celebrate 200 years since the Greek Revolution of 2021. On 19 April, the municipality revealed that it has been successful as the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has now officially renamed Mykonos Airport to Mykonos-Manto Mavrogenous Airport.  

A Greek heroine 

Manto Mavrogenous was a heroine of the Greek War of Independence, which took place between 1821 and 1829. Born into a wealthy family in 1796, Mavrogenous was a rich woman who spent all her fortune on the revolution and persuaded her European friends to contribute money and weaponry. More importantly, she was heavily involved in the war effort, having fought bravely in multiple battles. 

Manto Mavrogenous (Source: Mykonos Municipality)

Despite her contributions, Mavrogenous was left out of the history books (as most women generally were). Now, the addition of her name to the newly-renovated Mykonos Airport will recognise the role she played during the war and pay tribute to her efforts.

Taking this further, the municipality notes that although renaming the airport is a relatively small action, it carries great symbolism. In other words, it comments on the equality of women and one’s responsibility to fight for their values. The Mayor of Mykonos, Konstantinos Koukas, commented on the government’s decision to rename the airport in a statement:

“Today, I have received great joy from the official announcement of the renaming of Mykonos Airport to Mykonos-Manto Mavrogenous Airport. A decision of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, after the unanimous decision of our Municipal Council, which promotes the work of the heroine of Mykonos, highlighting the rich local history and unique tradition of our island.”

According to Mayor Koukas, Mykonos is a destination that can offer both a beautiful landscape and a journey through history.