Hellenic Army Academy Evelpidon for Kappa Magazine

For this documentary photography assignment for the Greek magazine “Kappa” of Kathimerini News, I spent a full day inside the Hellenic Military Academy “Scholi Evelpidon” in Vari, Athens, on the occasion of its anniversary founded on December 21, 1828. The visit offered a rare opportunity to look beyond the institution’s formal image and vissually explore how one of Greece’s oldest military schools is redefining itself for the future.

What becomes clear almost immediately is that today’s Evelpidon is no longer an isolated, inward-looking military environment. According to the Academy’s Commandant, Major General Anastasios Polychronos, openness and international engagement are now central pillars of its philosophy. Cadets participate in international exchange programs, including Erasmus initiatives and visits to European and NATO institutions, allowing them to train alongside peers from abroad and develop a shared professional mindset within a global framework.

The Academy now operates as both a military and academic institution. Its modern campus—spanning approximately 68,000 square meters—resembles a contemporary university more than a traditional barracks. Lecture halls, laboratories, and research facilities support a demanding curriculum that ranges from humanities and engineering to artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.

Most of the Cadets that taking the decision to get in to Evelpidon is driven by personal motivation rather than career certainty alone. Some others by their family tradition in military career. Cadets describe the experience transformative, equipping them with skills that extend far beyond military service. Female cadets emphasize that while expectations are high, opportunities are equal, and progress is based on merit rather than gender—reflecting the Academy’s evolving culture.

One of the most striking aspects of the Academy today is its multicultural character. Students from Greece and countries such as Armenia, Tunisia, and various African nations train and study together. International cadets highlighting Greece’s history and culture as key reasons they chose Evelpidon. The Academy becomes a meeting point of different backgrounds united by shared discipline and ambition. Physical training remains a core component of daily life. From obstacle courses and climbing exercises to long-distance running. Cadets training has evolved as well. Programs are now designed using scientific methods with personalized exercise routines and nutritional planning tailored to each individual’s needs and performance.

Between history and innovation, national tradition and international outlook, discipline and education. The Hellenic Military Academy stands as an institution that honors its past while actively shaping the officers of tomorrow.
A summary from the original article and cover story printed and published in 21 Dec 2025 written by George Robollas.