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Manto Mavrogenous
During the Greek Revolution (1821) Mykonos Island played an essential role, helping the movement by sending war equipment to the Greeks. Among the many Mykonians who actively engaged in the War of Independence, one woman stood out with her courage and valor and is no other than Maddalena (Manto) Mavrogenous known as Bella Greka. The birthplace of Manto Mavrogenous was Trieste and came from an aristocratic family with strong Hellenic feelings. Being a lady of aristocratic lineage, she had a fortune at her disposal and, as a noble-hearted lady, she donated it all towards the funding of the War of Independence. Her fiery personality convinced the Turks to retreat, especially from Mykonos. She was a skillful leader, won many battles, and even led military expeditions in Europe. As a mark of respect to the great lady of Mykonos, a statue of Manto Mavrogenous lies in the Central Square of Mykonos Town.
Mykonos in Greek 1821 Revolution
The Island of Mykonos contributed in the Greek Revolution as many participated actively to the war. When the Greek Revolution was launched in 1821, they changed their trade ships into warships and battled to set other islands and the mainland free. Many Mykonians had already taken the vow of ‘’Filiki Etaireia’’ (A Greek revolution organisation), which was secretly mapping out the Revolution since 1814. During the Greek Revolution Mykonos island contributed to the cause with 22 warships, 500 sailors, and 140 canons increasing the war equipment and moral of the Greek fighters and sailors.
Mostra
This simple traditional appetizer consists of rusk, kopanisti cheese, one large tomato, olive oil, oregano, capers, and olives. The spicy taste of the kopanisti coupled with the juice and sweet flavor of the tomato is a refreshing combination. Order a Mostra, a glass of ouzo or wine, and a couple of other mezedes (local variety of dishes), and you dine like a true local before you know it. Join a food tour in Mykonos or just explore on your own the traditional restaurants and tavernas to learn how Greek dishes can be paired together to create a mouthwatering meal.
Lena’s House, Mykonos Folklore Museum
Lena’s house is a 19th century traditional Mykonian house. This house is located in the Tria Pigadia area in the town and is an authentic middle-class Mykonian residence, representing a typical internal arrangement of space. The name of the house comes from its last owner Lena Skrivanou. It consists of a front porch, a living room with a characteristic arched roof support, two bedrooms, as well as a smaller back yard along with a pigeon house. If you are interested in history visit this house and learn more about the everyday life of Mykonos in the 19th century.