The Armata of Spetses

The Armata of Spetses is an annual commemoration of the naval battle of 8 September 1822, in which the fleets of Spetses, Hydra and Psara turned back the Ottoman armada in the waters off the island. Island tradition credits the Spetsiot captain Kosmas Barbatsis with steering his fireship against the Ottoman flagship. The chapel of Panagia Armata above the Old Harbour commemorates the dedication of the victory to the Virgin, whose feast falls on the same day. The re-enactment has been staged since 1931.

The 2026 culmination takes place on Saturday 12 September at the Old Harbour. A replica of the Ottoman flagship is towed out and set alight; the burning is narrated in Greek and English and is followed by fireworks. The Municipality of Spetses organises a week of festivities around the anniversary, including concerts, theatre and exhibitions.