Renowned Byzantine scholar and historian Chrysa Maltezou passed away on January 10, leaving behind a significant legacy in the field of Greek history.As a former Director of the Greek Institute of Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Studies in Venice and a member of the Academy of Athens, Maltezou was honored with the Academy’s award in 1982 for her pivotal role in preserving the Historical Archive of Kythera. In 2003, she received the Golden Cross of the Order of Honor from the President of Greece, Konstantinos Stefanopoulos, in recognition of her scholarly contributions. Her research focused on the Venetian period of Greek history and the interactions between Hellenism and the West from the 13th to the 18th century, encompassing archival, paleographic, and diplomatic studies. Maltezou’s impact on the academic community will be remembered through her extensive work and the tribute volume published in her honor in 2013.
Cultural Minister Lina Mendoni expressed her deep sorrow and respect following the passing of renowned historian Chrysa Maltezou, who considerably impacted the study of medieval Greek history. With a distinguished career that included extensive research at leading institutions and decades of teaching at the University of Crete and later at the University of Athens, Maltezou was instrumental in shaping the academic discourse surrounding Venetian-ruled Hellenism. Her tenure as director of the Greek Institute of Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Studies in Venice marked a pivotal moment in her multifaceted career, where she revitalized the institution and contributed to the advancement of historical scholarship.Renowned Byzantine historian Chrysa Maltezou has passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a significant intellectual legacy.Maltezou, who died on January 10, was celebrated for her extensive scholarly contributions and her dedicated tenure at the Academy of Athens. Her prolific body of work, comprising hundreds of publications, reflects her commitment to academia and her passion for historical research. colleagues and friends remember her as a devoted scholar whose impact on the field of history will be felt for generations to come. Sincere condolences are extended to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.
A Legacy Remembered: An Interview with Expert Dr. Elena Georgiou on Chrysa MaltezouS Impact on Byzantine Studies
Time.news Editor: Dr. Georgiou, thank you for joining us today too discuss the recent passing of Chrysa Maltezou, a distinguished historian whose contributions to Byzantine studies were profound. How do you assess her impact on the field of Greek history?
dr.Georgiou: thank you for having me. Chrysa Maltezou’s impact on the study of Byzantine and post-Byzantine history cannot be overstated. As the former Director of the Greek Institute of Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Studies in Venice, she revitalized an important academic institution that has been crucial for research in this domain. Her extensive work has enhanced our understanding of the Venetian period of Greek history and the interactions between Hellenism and the west from the 13th to the 18th century.
Time.news Editor: That is indeed meaningful. Her research included archival, paleographic, and diplomatic studies. Can you elaborate on the importance of these areas in historical scholarship?
Dr. Georgiou: Absolutely.Archival studies allow historians to explore primary sources that are essential for interpreting past events accurately. Paleography—the study of ancient handwriting—helps to decipher these documents, while diplomatic studies focus on the official records and treaties that shaped relations among states. Maltezou’s work in these areas contributed to a deeper comprehension of the socio-political landscape of her research period, notably how Venetian rule influenced Greek identity and culture.
Time.news Editor: It’s clear that her contributions were recognized widely; she received notable honors such as the Academy’s award in 1982 and the Golden Cross of the Order of Honor in 2003. What do these accolades signify for the field?
Dr. Georgiou: These awards signify recognition of her unparalleled contributions to historical scholarship. The Academy’s award reflects her role in preserving critical historical records, such as the Historical Archive of Kythera. The Golden Cross of the Order of Honor from the president of Greece underscores her influence and commitment to advancing Greek studies. Such honors not only celebrate individual achievements but also elevate the entire field, often inspiring future scholars.
Time.news Editor: With her extensive body of work, including hundreds of publications and a tribute volume published in her honor in 2013, how should aspiring historians draw inspiration from maltezou’s career?
Dr. Georgiou: Aspiring historians can learn a great deal from Maltezou’s dedication to her research and her commitment to education. Her interdisciplinary approach is a model for how history should be studied—drawing connections across periods and cultures. Additionally, her engagement with archival materials serves as a reminder of the importance of primary sources in crafting compelling narratives about the past. I encourage young scholars to not only focus on their specific interests but also to engage with the broader academic community, just as Maltezou did throughout her lifetime.
Time.news Editor: how do you think chrysa Maltezou’s legacy will impact future discussions in medieval greek history?
Dr. Georgiou: Maltezou’s legacy will undoubtedly endure as a guiding light in Byzantine studies. Her thorough understanding of the complexities surrounding Hellenism and its interactions with the West provides a framework that future scholars can build upon. As academic discourse evolves, her methodologies and findings will continue to inform and inspire studies of medieval history, ensuring that her passion for the past lives on through the work of generations to come.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. georgiou, for shedding light on the remarkable legacy of Chrysa Maltezou. It’s evident that her influence will resonate within the academic community for many years ahead.
Dr. Georgiou: Thank you for this opportunity to discuss her legacy. It’s crucial to honor such scholars who have shaped our understanding of history.