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In the heart of Greece, where ancient history and modernity converge, the evolution of Freemasonry unfolds as a captivating narrative of resilience, growth, and adaptation. From the first Masonic lodge established in Corfu in 1782 to the vibrant National Grand Lodge of Greece (NGLOG) of today, this journey through time reveals a fraternity deeply embedded in Greece’s quest for independence and cultural renaissance. As the NGLOG prepares to welcome a new generation of leaders, it stands as a testament to the enduring principles of brotherhood, liberty, and equality, while embracing change and expanding its beneficial influence into the very fabric of society. This introduction to Freemasonry in Greece is a tale of tradition embracing modernity, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most historically rich landscapes.
The Evolution of Freemasonry in Greece: A Historical Overview
The story of Freemasonry in Greece is a tale woven into the fabric of the country’s quest for independence and its cultural renaissance. It begins in the Venetian-ruled Corfu in 1782, where the first regular Masonic Lodge named “Beneficenza” (Benevolence) was established. This lodge was under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Verona, headquartered in Padua, Italy. Around the same period, Greek-speaking lodges started to emerge both within Greece and abroad, initiated by Greeks of the diaspora. In a similar vein to Freemasonry, the “Good Cousins” organization was founded in Vienna in 1780, aiming to unite all Christians in the Balkans fighting for liberation from Ottoman rule. Rigas Feraios, a prominent Greek figure and later a national martyr for freedom, was a member of this organization.
By 1810, Dionysios Romas merged the Corfu lodges “Beneficenza” and “Philogenia” into a unified entity, which in 1811 became the first Grand Lodge in the Greek realm, titled “Serene Grand East of Greece, in Corfu, 1811”. This pioneering Grand Lodge not only cultivated the ground for the liberation of unredeemed Hellenism but, under the responsibility and initiative of Dionysios Romas, made decisions that significantly impacted the success of the sacred fight for independence. It is recognized for its ancient hierarchy among all Regular Grand Lodges.
The contribution of Greek Freemasonry to the national awakening was multifaceted and invaluable, particularly in the Ionian Islands. The Lodge “Union” in Lefkada played a historic role, as it was here that Emmanuel Xanthos was initiated and envisioned the foundation of the “Friendly Society” on purely Masonic principles. Prominent figures who led the 1821 Revolution, such as Germanos III of Old Patras, Patriarch Gregory V, Theodoros Kolokotronis, Alexander Ypsilantis, and Ioannis Kapodistrias, were among the Freemasons or were closely associated with Freemasonry.
In 1811, the “Phoenix” Lodge was established in Moscow, through the cooperation of Ioannis Kapodistrias and Alexander Mavrocordatos, marking the spread of Greek Masonic influence abroad. This was followed by the creation of the “Athena” Lodge in Paris and the “Society of Philomuses” in Vienna and Athens, which played crucial roles in the cultural and revolutionary activities of the time.
The Parisian “Greek-speaking Hotel” was founded in 1813 by Ioannis Kapodistrias, serving as a Masonic hub closely linked to the secret preparations for Greece’s liberation. Athanasios Tsakalov, a key figure, was initiated here, later playing a pivotal role in the establishment of the “Friendly Society” in Odessa, Russia, in 1814. This society aimed at the liberation of Greece from Ottoman rule and was instrumental in the national revival, with significant support from European Masonic Lodges.
However, by 1843, the “Serene Grand East of Greece” ceased operations. It wasn’t until twenty years later, in 1863, that a regular Masonic Lodge named “Panellinion” was founded in Athens, under the auspices of the Grand East of Italy. This led to the establishment of several other lodges across Greece.
In 1864, seven lodges sought permission from the Grand East of Italy to establish an independent Grand East of Greece. Although initially refused, they were granted the right to form a Supreme Masonic Directorate in Athens. Finally, in 1867, after persistent requests from Greek Freemasons, the Grand East of Italy proclaimed an autonomous Greek Masonic Center, named “Grand East of Greece”, headquartered in Athens. This entity, through the revision of the Masonic Constitution in 1936, was renamed “Grand Lodge of Greece”.
This historical narrative underscores the intertwined relationship between Freemasonry and the modern Greek state’s formation. The principles of brotherhood, liberty, and equality championed by Freemasonry undeniably played a crucial role in shaping the ideals of the Greek Revolution and the subsequent quest for national identity and independence.
The Contemporary Landscape of Freemasonry in Greece: A Path Towards Autonomy and Recognition
The narrative of Freemasonry in Greece took a significant turn in 1986 with the establishment of the National Grand Lodge of Greece (NGLOG) on June 7th. This new body was formed by brethren from the Grand Lodge of Greece, the sole Masonic entity in the country until that point. The creation of NGLOG marked a pivotal moment in Greek Freemasonry, signifying a movement towards autonomy, driven by a commitment to the principles of Freemasonry as understood globally. This development was not initially intended to create a new Grand Lodge but was necessitated by the restrictive practices under the Grand Lodge of Greece, which limited the free exercise of Freemasonry.
Tracing back to 1940, Freemasonry in Greece was represented by the “Serene Grand East of Greece,” overseen by the “Supreme Council of the 33°” which represented the Scottish Rite for the first three degrees only. By 1940, the Supreme Council theoretically relinquished control over these degrees, leading to the formation of the Grand Lodge of Greece. Recognized by the United Grand Lodge of England in 1948 under specific conditions, the Grand Lodge of Greece was tasked with distancing itself from the practices of the Grand Orient of France and strictly adopting the Ancient Charges of the Order. Despite this, the adherence to these conditions was nominal, and significant reforms were not implemented, leading to continued dissatisfaction within the Greek Masonic community.
In March 1976, a group of enthusiastic brethren, aiming to align Greek Freemasonry with the Ancient Charges, were initiated into the York Rite by high-ranking officials, marking the beginning of a concerted effort to establish a regular Masonic presence in Greece beyond the Symbolic Craft. This initiative quickly gained international recognition, forming the “Grand Chapter of Greece” and laying the foundation for a new Masonic body that adhered strictly to traditional Masonic practices and governance.
Despite efforts to unify the three Masonic bodies in Greece—the Grand Lodge of Greece, the Supreme Council of the 33°, and the Grand Chapter of Greece—tensions escalated, particularly after 1981 when a new Grand Master was elected for the Grand Lodge of Greece. Subsequent actions by the Grand Lodge, including a circular threatening expulsion for those participating in the Grand Chapter, led to widespread dissatisfaction and eventual secession.
In May 1986, six Greek lodges decided to form the National Grand Lodge of Greece, officially established on June 7, 1986. This new Grand Lodge chose to follow the “Emulation Ritual” and based its governance on the centuries-old experience of English Freemasonry, translating the General Regulations of the Craft of the United Grand Lodge of England into its practices. Importantly, it also established the Order of the Royal Arch under the Grand Chapter of Greece, allowing bodies beyond the Craft degrees to operate independently under their governance and regulations.
The NGLOG was recognized as Regular because it adhered to ancient and accepted Masonic practices and upheld the Ancient Duties and Charges. In 1993, the United Grand Lodge of England recognized the NGLOG, withdrawing its recognition from the Grand Lodge of Greece. This was followed by recognition from other Grand Lodges worldwide, affirming the NGLOG’s status in the global Masonic community.
However, in an unprecedented move in 1999, the United Grand Lodge of England reversed its decision for internal reasons, despite acknowledging the NGLOG as Regular. This decision did not affect the NGLOG’s work or its international standing, as other Grand Lodges, including those of Scotland and Ireland, continued their recognition.
The establishment and evolution of the National Grand Lodge of Greece highlight a journey towards Masonic regularity and autonomy, emphasizing adherence to ancient practices and the importance of fraternal and democratic processes within Freemasonry. Despite challenges, the NGLOG has maintained its commitment to the spiritual, esoteric, initiatory, and philosophical work of Freemasonry, prioritizing these principles above all else in its endeavors.
The National Grand Lodge of Greece (NGLOG) has emerged as the most vibrant and dynamic Masonic entity in Greece, attracting hundreds of new members annually. Notably, these new entrants are younger, reflecting a rejuvenated interest in Freemasonry among the younger generations. This surge in membership underscores the NGLOG’s appeal and its successful adaptation to the needs and interests of contemporary society, while still adhering to the timeless principles of Freemasonry. The NGLOG’s lodges, including the notable “Apollonios o Rodios,” which due of its strategic position at the island of Rhodes stand as beacons of Masonic protocol and brotherly love, welcoming Freemasons from across the globe.
This openness not only fosters a rich exchange of ideas and cultures but also serves as an exceptional example of global Masonic fraternity. Through such inclusivity and the vibrant engagement of its members, the NGLOG not only honors the ancient traditions of Freemasonry but also ensures its relevance and vitality in the modern world, making it a pivotal force in the global Masonic community.
The Future of Freemasonry in Greece
The National Grand Lodge of Greece (NGLOG) stands on the cusp of a promising future within the global Masonic landscape. With the upcoming elections in March, there is a palpable sense of anticipation for a new era of leadership, as the baton is expected to pass to a younger generation of Freemasons, with vibrant lodges in all over the country-even in its broader corners such as Rhodes (Apollonios the Rhodian 80 Lodge) and Corfu (Phoenix Lodge, Greece’s oldest masonic lodge and others). This transition is not merely symbolic but represents a significant shift towards infusing the NGLOG with fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a renewed zeal for extending the principles of Freemasonry into broader societal pillars. NGLOG also consist of English, French, German and Italian-speaking lodges, allowing Freemasons from all over the world to enjoy the fraternity’s principles when in Greece.
Plans for further expansion are not limited to increasing membership but encompass a strategic vision for enhancing the role of Freemasonry in public service, education, and cultural exchange. This forward-looking approach aims to reinforce the NGLOG’s position as a dynamic and beneficial force in society, ensuring that its contributions are both meaningful and impactful. With such aspirations, the NGLOG is poised not only to continue its rich legacy but to expand and embody the timeless virtues of Freemasonry in the modern age.
Useful Links:
Website of the National Grand Lodge of Greece: https://nglgreece.org/
Website of Apollonios the Rhodian, no80 Lodge in Rhodes: https://www.lodge-rhodes.com/
