150.00€
A highly significant presentation copy (1959) of Το Ολοκαύτωμα των Ηπειρωτών Αγωνιστών εν Φραγκοκάστελλω (The Sacrifice of the Epirote Fighters at Fragkokastello), inscribed by Evangelos Psimas, Metropolitan of Hermopolis.
This exceptional copy establishes a direct historical link between the author and the descendants of Hatzimichalis Dalianis, one of the central figures of the Battle of Fragkokastello in Crete during the Greek War of Independence.
Provenance & Dedication
The book is hand-inscribed by the author to Georgios Al. Hatzimihalis, identified as a great-grandchild of General Dalianis. This personal dedication elevates the copy from a historical publication to a document of lineage and memory.
Unique Ephemera
An extraordinary feature of this copy is the inclusion of original accompanying material:
A handwritten note by the Metropolitan
His purple calling card, attached to the title page
In the note, he expresses his intention to gather the names and addresses of all descendants of Dalianis in order to send each a copy of this commemorative work. This provides rare insight into the author’s effort to actively shape and preserve historical memory within the family lineage.
Historical Context
On 17 May 1828, the Battle of Fragkokastello took place, when forces led by Hatzimichalis Dalianis—including Sfakians and Epirote fighters—occupied the fortress in an effort to extend the Greek War of Independence to Crete. They were ultimately besieged and defeated by Ottoman forces, though subsequent ambushes inflicted losses on the opposing side.
According to local tradition, each year around the anniversary of the battle, shadowy figures—known as Drosoulites (“dew-men”)—are said to appear at dawn, resembling marching soldiers. This phenomenon has often been attributed to atmospheric conditions but remains an enduring element of Cretan historical memory.
Published in Alexandria in 1959, the work defends and commemorates the sacrifice of the Epirote fighters who fell at Fragkokastello. It reflects mid-20th-century Greek historiography and the continued cultural importance of the War of Independence in diaspora communities, particularly in Alexandria.
Bibliographic Details
Title: Το Ολοκαύτωμα των Ηπειρωτών Αγωνιστών εν Φραγκοκάστελλω
Author: Evangelos Psimas, Metropolitan of Hermopolis
Place: Alexandria, Egypt
Year: 1959
Printer: Middle East Printing Office
Format: Original paper binding (softcover)
Pages: 45
Dimensions: 24 cm × 17 cm
Language: Greek
Features: Signed/inscribed copy with original handwritten note and calling card attached
Condition
Very good condition for its age.
Binding tight and secure
Pages clean
Handwritten elements firmly attached
A well-preserved and complete copy with exceptional associative value.
Please refer to the images
Collector’s Significance
Inscribed presentation copy to a direct descendant of General Dalianis
Includes rare original ephemera (note + calling card)
Strong historical and genealogical connection
Tied to the legacy of the Battle of Fragkokastello
Appealing to collectors of Greek history, Crete, and War of Independence material
