Greece marks Independence Day with military parade and ceremonies

Greece celebrated its Independence Day on Tuesday, commemorating the start of the 1821 War of Independence against Ottoman rule with military parades and religious services.

In Athens, a grand military parade took place at Syntagma Square, attended by President Konstantinos Tassoulas and top state, political, and military officials. The day began with 21 ceremonial gun salutes from Lycabettus Hill, while armed forces bands played in central streets.

A special service at Athens Cathedral, led by Archbishop Hieronymos, preceded the official flag-raising at the Acropolis.

The events in Athens were scheduled to wrap up with the official lowering of the flag, while a 21-gun salute was expected to be fired from the Lycabettus cannon.