The Greek Culture Ministry has officially recognized 465 exhibits on show at the Spathario Museum of Shadow Theater in Marousi as Contemporary Monuments highlighting their cultural significance as integral elements of Greece’s artistic heritage.
The items, originally donated by celebrated Greek shadow puppeteer Evgenios Spatharis to the Municipality of Marousi in 2003, form the museum’s permanent collection. They serve as rare documentation of Greece’s shadow puppet theater tradition, offering insight into the historical, political, and social conditions of their time, the ministry said in a statement. They also reflect the contributions of Evgenios Spatharis and of his father, Sotiris Spatharis, to Greek culture and art.
Evgenios Spatharis: A Pioneer
Evgenios Spatharis (1924-2009) is considered among the most influential shadow puppet theater artists in Greece. He was the first to introduce Karagiozis to mass audiences through television, recordings, and cinema. Until then, Karagiozis performances were mostly live happenings held in Greek towns and villages, particularly during the summer months. This tradition continues today.
Following in the footsteps of his father Sotiris, Evgenios modernized shadow puppet theater by incorporating political themes into his performances. Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni described him as a “restless spirit and multifaceted talent” who transformed Karagiozis into an important Greek cultural figure and unique form of artistic expression.
“He gave Karagiozis a new lease on life, modernizing and animating the folk hero through theater, cinema, television, music and art, and made him known throughout the world,” said Mendoni.
The Spathario Museum Collection
Evgenios Spatharis in action. Photo: Greek Culture Ministry
By designating the Spathario Museum’s collection as a Contemporary Monument, Greece acknowledges its artistic, historical and folkloric value. The collection documents Greek shadow puppet theater through time and celebrates Evgenios Spatharis’ efforts to preserve and promote it.
Collection highlights include Karagiozis puppets made of cardboard, leather, and plastic; stage sets, including the one used for the first televised Karagiozis show in 1966; the first color Karagiozis figures; display cases and props used for special effects, including musical instruments; shadow puppets from other countries; books, posters, and articles related to Karagiozis and shadow theater.
Karagiozis: A Timeless Greek Cultural Icon
Karagiozis the Astronaut created on the occasion of Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin’s visit to Athens in 1958. Photo: Greek Culture Ministry
Karagiozis, whose name translates to “black-eyed”, has been an integral part of Greek culture for decades. He is the protagonist in hundreds of tales originally performed by traveling troupes in villages and towns across Greece.
His adventures have entertained generations with humor, satire, and social commentary. In tough historic times, Karagiozis also boosted the morale of the Greeks.
Evgenios Spatharis further expanded Karagiozis’ universe, introducing characters based on mythology, history, and contemporary themes. His innovations led to new interpretations of Karagiozis, including roles such as astronaut or politician, making the favorite Greek shadow puppet relevant to modern audiences.
Today, shadow puppetry is still very much alive in Greece, with younger generations learning the craft and creating their own theaters and troupes.
The Culture Ministry’s recognition of the Spathario Museum’s collection ensures that this treasured Greek craft and art form will be handed over to the next generations.
