ATHENS – At a time when historical memory is challenged by the hectic pace of everyday life, Pagoni Maison des Cravates, the historic Greek fashion House since 1933, together with Pagoni Moda, chooses to preserve it through creation. On the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the heroic yet tragic Exodus of Messolonghi (1826–2026), they are the creators of the official commemorative collection featuring all-silk scarves and ties dedicated to sacrifice, freedom, and philhellenism evoked by the anniversary.
The Municipality of the Sacred City of Messolonghi selected Pagoni Maison des Cravates due to their expertise, know-how, heritage, and international reputation for the design, production, and exclusive distribution of this anniversary collection in Greece and abroad.
For the ties, inspiration comes from the laurel wreath embroidered in gold on the figure of the Greek muse Ourania, which appears in the painting ‘The Exodus of Messolonghi’ by Theodoros Vryzakis. The scarves and shawls, are inspired by three emblematic works housed in the Messolonghi Municipal Art Gallery: The aforementioned Vryzakis, ‘The Lady of Messolonghi’ by Charles-Émile Delansac, and ‘The Blowing Up of the Powder Magazine’ of Christos Kapsalis-Theodoros Vryzakis.
Additionally, the verse “Hail, oh hail, Liberty!” from the ‘Hymn to Liberty’ the Greek National Anthem by Dionysios Solomos, is depicted on the silk scarf in the poet’s own handwriting, transferring the authentic voice of the Exodus of Messolonghi onto silk and transforming each piece into a work of art.
The official opening of the anniversary events abroad for the Exodus of Messolonghi was held in In Brussels on November 18-19 2025. The Mayor of the Sacred City of Messolonghi, Spyros Diamantopoulos, presented the commemorative silk scarf to the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, and offered the commemorative ties and women’s scarves to the Greek Members of the European Parliament who organized the event, as well as to the Ambassadors of Greece to Belgium, the European Union and NATO.
Guided by the experienced vision of third-generation owner Marianna Pagoni, and the artistic direction of fourth-generation successor Elena Samouchou-Pagoni, the company continues to honor the founding principles and vision of the Maison, entering a new era while consistently maintaining its leading position in the market and offering a unique, personal and refined experience to its distinguished clientele.
Marianna Pagoni and Elena Samouchou Pagoni spoke to The National Herald about what the 200th anniversary of the heroic Exodus of Messolonghi means for the city today, and their amily.
Marianna Pagoni and Elena Samouchou Pagoni: The 200th anniversary of the Heroic Exodus of Messolonghi is a milestone that continues to shape the identity of the city today. Messolonghi remains a universal symbol of courage, unity and sacrifice. The bicentenary honors this legacy through the meaningful connection of art, history, culture, philanthropy and timeless values, bringing the spirit of the Exodus into contemporary dialogue.
The first official commemorations abroad took place in Brussels, where we proudly launched the ‘PAGONI x 200 YEARS EXODUS OF MESSOLONGHI 1826–2026 ACCESSORIES’. The anniversary events were organised under the auspices of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the European Parliament, in the presence of the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, with the participation of Members of the European Parliament Eliza Vozemberg, Giannis Maniatis, and Nicolas Farantouris. The program also took place at the Université libre de Bruxelles, with a message from the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ioannis-Michail Loverdos, with the valuable support of the Ambassador of Greece in Brussels Panos Giotopoulos.
Our inspiration comes from important cultural landmarks such as the Municipal Art Gallery of Messolonghi, the Diexodos Cultural Centre Museum and the historic Garden of Heroes, which preserve the spirit of the Exodus.
Inspired by the support of the former President of the Hellenic Republic, Prokopios Pavlopoulos, Nikos Kordosis, owner of the two private museums of Messolonghi (the DIEXODUS Museum and the Salt Museum), and the Mayor of Messolonghi, Spyros Diamantopoulos, and deeply moved by the sacrifices of the women of Messolonghi, we have decided to dedicate part of the proceeds from the sales of its commemorative accessories to support the two charitable institutions, Panagia Eleousa and the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Society of Aetoloacarnania (E.P.S.Y.P.E.A.- ΕΨΥΠΕΑ).
Through this initiative, remembrance becomes both tribute and offering, ensuring that the values born in Messolonghi 200 years ago continue to inspire future generations.
The National Herald: Messolonghi holds a unique place in the history of the Greek War of Independence. How do you see its legacy resonating with Greeks of the diaspora, particularly in the United States?
Marianna Pagoni and Elena Samouchou Pagoni: Messolonghi holds a unique place in the history of the Greek War of Independence, symbolising courage, dignity, and sacrifice in the name of freedom. For Greeks of the Diaspora, particularly in the United States, its legacy resonates deeply, as every Greek living abroad carries within them the understanding of sacrifice, the perseverance, and the determination to work hard in order to offer a better future to their family.
In many ways, the spirit of Messolonghi is reflected in the journey of every Greek of the Diaspora. The strength, resilience and sense of responsibility that defined the people of Messolonghi are values that Greeks abroad recognise in their own lives, as they strive to preserve their heritage while creating opportunities for the next generation. This shared experience creates a strong emotional bond with Messolonghi, reminding Greeks everywhere that the ideals of freedom, dignity and hope remain timeless elements of Hellenism.
TNH: The anniversary has also inspired collaborations, such as commemorative collections and philanthropic initiatives connected to Messolonghi. How important are these kinds of partnerships in extending the city’s message and impact globally?
Marianna Pagoni and Elena Samouchou Pagoni: Collaborations inspired by this anniversary are especially meaningful when they are connected with ‘giving back’ to the local community of Messolonghi. Deeply moved by the sacrifices symbolised by the city’s history, we have decided to donate part of the proceeds from the sales of the Pagoni commemorative accessories to support Panagia Eleousa and E.P.S.Y.P.E.A.
We believe that initiatives of this kind ensure that the message of Messolonghi is expressed not only through remembrance, but also through acts of solidarity and contribution. For this reason, we warmly invite everyone to support this effort, either through the purchase of the commemorative Pagoni accessories, or through direct support to Panagia Eleousa and E.P.S.Y.P.E.A., whose work offers meaningful help to the local community.
In this way, the anniversary becomes not only a tribute to history, but also an opportunity to transform memory into positive action, reflecting the timeless values of care, dignity and responsibility that are closely connected with the spirit of Messolonghi.
