Memorial events are taking place in Greece to mark the eighth anniversary of the deadly Mati wildfire, one of the country’s worst natural disasters, as families, survivors and local residents gather to honor the 104 people who lost their lives.
The commemorations are being organized by the Association of Relatives of the Deceased and Burn Survivors, in cooperation with the Municipality of Marathon, and will culminate on Thursday, July 23, at the sites most affected by the 2018 disaster.
In a statement, the association said remembrance is not only an act of respect for those who died but also a lasting reminder that every human life must be valued and protected.
Vigil and memorial services
The commemorative program began on Wednesday evening with an overnight vigil at the Church of St. John the Baptist in Neos Voutzas, where a memorial dedicated to the wildfire victims stands. Relatives, friends and local residents gathered to pay tribute to those who lost their lives.
Earlier this week, an annual memorial service was also held at the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary in Mati, attended by victims’ families, friends and members of the local community.
Commemorative walk through the disaster area
Thursday’s events will include memorial prayers and religious services, followed by a commemorative walk through the areas devastated by the fire, ending at Argyra Akti beach.
The July 23, 2018 wildfire left 104 people dead, dozens injured with severe burns and caused extensive destruction, remaining one of the darkest chapters in Greece’s recent history.
