“The savior of Thessaloniki” is the title of an article in the Süddeutsche Zeitung about Georg Eckert, who “in post-war Germany was a highly respected scientist, educator and historian, and was also President of the German Commission for UNESCO.” During World War II he was 28 years old serving in Thessaloniki, “the Jerusalem of the Balkans, as it was called then”.
The young ethnologist is fascinated by Greece and its people, until he thinks of moving there after the war. Christiane Schletzer writes in her article: “This is due to personal meetings and deep friendships with Greeks, which the young German soon cultivates more and more intensively. These friends introduced him to everyday life in Greece. He experiences how the Greeks are starving, he learns about their fears. The friends finally brought him in contact with the left Greek resistance, with the ELAS guerrilla army. Eckert then makes a decision as serious as it is courageous. Shortly before the Wehrmacht left, together with a small group of trusted Germans, they joined the left-wing ELAS resistance movement. Identity card issued by ELAS with a photo, dated November 18, 1944 “.
On the side of the Greeks
And a little later the article notes: “Eckert also has a special role, which is highlighted by Metzing’s biographer. He uses his influence, which he apparently still has as a Wehrmacht official with the rank of major in the circle of senior German officers – in consultation with the Greek resistance movement – to prevent further destruction of Thessaloniki by the retreating occupiers. In return, ELAS would refrain from attacks against the defeated German troops. This was later reported by Greek sources. However, the evacuation is not complete without explosives, an oil depot is burning, ships are sinking… Vital infrastructure such as the power plant, water supply projects and a significant port dock are saved,” as a result of Eckert’s negotiations with ELAS” according to researcher Metzing.
Latest News
Critical Week for Greece-Cyprus Cable
The study concluded that the social benefits of the interconnection, totaling 8 billion euros, far outweigh its 1.9 billion euros construction cost, resulting in a net social benefit exceeding 6 billion euros.
Roberta Metsola Re-elected President of European Parliament
Her second term will be for a period of two and a half years
ELSTAT: 1.5% Increase in Business Turnover in May 2024
The most significant increase in turnover in May 2024 compared with May 2023 was recorded from the enterprises of the Accommodation and Food Service Activities, sector which grew by 14.8%.
Cosco: Container Traffic Decline at Piraeus Port Continues
This strategic shift has diminished Piraeus's standing as a prominent Mediterranean port and a key transshipment hub post-Suez Canal.
Gov’t Eyes Return of Power Subsidies Amid Spike in Rates
According to reports, the government will resume an electricity subsidization program, given that forecasts cite disruptions – i.e. higher rates
ELSTAT: 6.3% Increase in Output Price Index for Agriculture and Livestock
The 6.3% rise in May 2024 is largely driven by an 8.8% increase in the crop output group, particularly due to changes in olive oil prices, and a 0.5% increase in the animal output group.
Balkans Blackout Highlights Climate Threats to Power Grids
The surge in electricity demand during the heat wave and the power deficit in Balkan markets have driven up prices in the Greek wholesale electricity market.
Greece in Top 4 Destinations Favored by European Tourists
Greece was selected by 5.9% of respondents who were asked where they would vacation this year, up from 5.4% in the same survey last year
Scope Affirms Greece’s BBB- Ratings; Revises Outlook to Positive
The international ratings firm raised Greece to investment grade in early August 2023
First Seaplane Test Flights to Skopelos, Alonissos, Skyros
After decades of on-again, off-again efforts to schedule regular seaplane routes to Greece's numerous island and coastal destinations the prospect now appears within sight