Statue of Chrysostomos of Smyrni

The statue of Chrysostomos of Smyrni, the hero and martyr of the Asia Minor Catastrophe, dominates the centre of Agia Sophia Square in Thessaloniki. Chrysostomos Kalafatis, born in 1867, was a prominent theologian and priest of Asia Minor origin. His life and work were marked by his militant activity during the Macedonian Struggle, when he served as Bishop of Drama, Philippi and Zion from 1902 to 1910, as well as his tenure as Metropolitan of Smyrna until his martyrdom in 1922.

His monumental statue, the work of renowned sculptor Thanasis Aparte, is made of metal and depicts Chrysostomos in a dynamic pose, holding a staff in one hand while the other is raised, as if addressing a speech full of passion and determination to his flock. This depiction captures the dedication and militancy that characterized Chrysostom throughout his life, especially during the tragic events of the Smyrna disaster.

The marble base of the statue bears his name and the dates of his birth and death, while information about the erection of the statue is written on the side. The statue was erected in 1960 and is an emblematic place of remembrance for the people of Thessaloniki, honouring the heroic figure of Chrysostomos of Smyrna and his sacrifice for Hellenism.