Evangelos Zappas commanded a significant personal fortune of six million gold drachmas by the time of his death in 1865. Born in Labovë e Madhe in 1800, he transitioned from a military career during the Greek War of Independence to becoming one of the most prominent entrepreneurs operating within the United Principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia.
Military Service and Rise in Wallachia
Before his business success, Zappas served as a mercenary in the militia of Ali Pasha. During the Greek War of Independence, he joined the Filiki Eteria and fought as a Major in several engagements, including the siege of Souli and the Battle of Peta. Following the conflict, he moved to Wallachia in 1831, where he acquired citizenship in 1844 and established a vast network of land and agricultural interests.
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Influenced by the work of Panagiotis Soutsos, Zappas proposed the revival of the ancient Olympic Games in 1856. Despite political opposition that favored agricultural and industrial exhibitions over athletics, Zappas provided the necessary funding to establish an Olympic Trust Fund. This support led to the first modern Olympic Games held in an Athens city square on 15 November 1859.
Philanthropic Impact
Zappas directed his wealth toward national development and education. He acted as a major financial supporter of the Romanian Academy, contributing to historical research and dictionary projects. Additionally, he funded the publication of Albanian newspapers and books. His legacy included instructions for the Zappeion, a facility designed to host exhibitions and conferences, which remains a landmark in his honor.
Fast facts
- Born: 1800, Labovë e Madhe
- Died: 1865, Broșteni
- Military Rank: Major
- Primary Occupation: Businessperson and Entrepreneur
- Olympic Games Sponsorship: 1859, 1870, 1875, 1888
- Education: Zosimaia School
- Citizenship: Greece, Ottoman Empire, Wallachia
- Burial Place: Broșteni
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of the 1859 Olympic Games?
They represented the first instance of modern athletic contests with roots in ancient Greek tradition, held under the sponsorship of Zappas.
Did Zappas support causes other than athletics?
Yes, he funded the Romanian Academy, academic projects regarding Romanian history and language, and published materials in the Albanian language.
Achievements
- Educated at Zosimaia School
