On Thursday, 12 June 2025, the central anniversary concert marking the 100 years of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki took place at the Thessaloniki Concert Hall, culminating the series of events honoring the centennial journey of the country’s largest university.
The event opened with the Hymn to Virtue, composed by Menelaos Pallantios with lyrics by Aristotle and Stylianos Kapsomenos, performed by the “Yannis Mantakas” Choir of AUTh under the direction of Erifili Damianou, with Giorgos Ntafos at the piano. The emotional impact was profound for all participants, as the hymn has been performed only a handful of times since its creation. It was an exceptionally significant moment for the University, symbolically setting the tone for the evening.
The program continued with the AUTh Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Vladimiros Symeonidis, presenting Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 (“Emperor”), featuring internationally acclaimed Greek pianist Vassilis Varvaresos as soloist. The concert highlighted the artistic excellence of the university community and reinforced AUTh’s role as a major cultural institution.
The central anniversary event for the 100 years of AUTh was attended by the President of the Hellenic Republic, Mr. Konstantinos Tasoulas, along with representatives of the country’s political, academic, and artistic spheres, as well as hundreds of students, alumni, and friends of the University.
The event formed part of the official centennial celebration program, which also included initiatives such as the illumination of historic city buildings, audiovisual installations, and exhibitions showcasing the history and contributions of the Institution.
The atmosphere of the evening blended emotion, pride, and a sense of continuity, leaving a lasting impression on all present. The 100-year anniversary event served as a powerful reminder of the University’s enduring connection with society, science, and the arts.
