Ioannis Kapodistrias

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Count Ioannis Antonios Kapodistrias, often anglicized as John Capodistrias, was a notable Greek statesman who served as Foreign Minister of the Russian Empire and earned widespread recognition as one of Europe's most distinguished politicians and diplomats. Following a storied career in European politics and diplomacy, he was elected as Greece's inaugural head of state (1827-31). He is widely regarded as the founder of modern Greece and the mastermind behind Greek independence. The sculpture portraying him is the work of artist Michael Tobros. It was installed in Kapodistrias Square (named in his honor) in 1932. Here, he is depicted standing, dressed formally, with one hand resting lightly on a tree trunk. Born in Corfu in 1776 to a noble family, Ioannis Kapodistrias studied medicine in Italy but ultimately became enamored with politics and diplomacy. For many years, he played a leading role in European diplomacy, primarily as the Russian Minister of Exterior Affairs, where he provided timely support to Greece's fight for independence. In April 1827, the National Congress elected him governor of the country for a seven-year term. He arrived in Nauplion, then the capital, on January 8th, 1828. Kapodistrias governed the newly established Greek state for three years and eight months until September 27th, 1831, when he was brutally murdered outside the Aghios Spiridonas church.