Amidst an atmosphere of emotion and admiration, the Xenokratios Archaeological Museum in Missolonghi officially welcomed Eugene Delacroix's iconic painting, 'Greece in the Ruins of Missolonghi' on Saturday, March 14. The painting was provided by the Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts for the celebration of the 200-year anniversary of the heroic Exodus of Missolonghi. This historical event reflects the city's crucial role in the Greek War of Independence, and the painting will be on display at the museum until November 2026.

The artwork, created by the renowned philhellene painter shortly after the heroic Exodus of the defenders of Missolonghi, portrays a powerful thematic essence that captivates with its artistic expression. Although Delacroix never visited the city, his choice to depict Missolonghi was intentional, as the third siege and subsequent escape of 1826 resonated throughout Europe, highlighting the city's unique historical significance.

Lina Mendoni, the Minister of Culture, underscored the symbolism and importance of displaying this artwork in Missolonghi, as it serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles endured during the Greek War of Independence. This exhibition not only honors the memory of the past but also brings contemporary significance to the town, reinforcing its status as a vital cultural and historical landmark in Greece, and is a source of national pride.