Every year on October 20th this same ritual commemorating the Battle of Navarino (1827) takes place in Pylos on the Navarino Bay (it is a part of many evens which usually take place from the 18 till the 21st October). 
The National delegates as well as the officials of France, Russia and Great Britain who were the allies of Greece in that battle against the Ottomans, part on the boats taking wreaths to the monuments corresponding to each country and which are all located within the bay.
The boats part simultaneously from the port and take with them whoever wants to attend. Last year I embarked on the boat heading towards Fanari (Tripito) island where a marble obelisque has been raised in memory of the French marines who battles here for Greece. 
The French squadron fought under the command of Admiral Henry de Rigny with seven ships (most of them with Greek names): Breslaw, Scipion, Trident, Sirene, Armide, Alcyone and Daphne.
The bay has been named by many as the most beautiful in the world. It is an amazing experience to sail in its peaceful waters surrounded by so much beauty knowing that in this very sanctuary like basin the battle has been fought with over 6000 casualties in total.
Tue, October 16, 2018Messinia, Traditions
