Eight years after the devastating Mati fire, the Eastern Attica Burned Victims & Relatives Association will hold a series of memorial events to honor those who lost their lives and reaffirm calls for accountability and justice.
The fire, which broke out on July 23, 2018, tore through the coastal communities of Mati and surrounding areas in eastern Attica, killing at least 104 people and children, and trapping residents and visitors as it spread rapidly toward the sea. It remains one of the deadliest wildfires in Greek history, leaving a scar on survivors, families and the wider community.
In announcing the commemorations, the association said the anniversary is not only a tribute to the victims but also a reminder of the importance of protecting human life and ensuring truth, accountability and responsibility.
Trapped by the flames, residents ran toward the sea seeking safety as the devastating fire engulfed Mati. Greece, on July 23, 2018. Photo: Kalogerikos, Nikos via Reuters
“The legacy of the victims is not confined to the memory of a tragedy,” the association said. “It is a responsibility shared by society to ensure that such a disaster is never repeated.”
The association also expressed its continued support for burn survivors living with the long-term consequences of the fire and for families still carrying the burden of their loss.
The commemorative program begins on Sunday, July 19, with a memorial service at the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Mati.
On Wednesday, July 22, at 9 p.m., a candlelight vigil will be held at the Church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos in Neos Voutzas.
On Thursday, July 23, a memorial service will take place at the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Agios Thomas and Agios Porphyrios in Kokkino Limanaki.
Later that evening, at 7 p.m., a commemorative ceremony will be held at the Monument to the Victims, beside the Church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos in Neos Voutzas, bringing together relatives, survivors, residents and supporters to honor those who lost their lives. A march will follow.
