The Maritime Museum of Crete, with a profound sense of responsibility for the preservation of our history, actively participates every year in the commemorative events honouring the Battle of Crete, which take place during the final days of May. For the year 2026, the commemorative event at our Museum will be held on Friday, 22 May, at 11:00 a.m. (10:30 a.m., Firka Fortress: Official Flag Raising Ceremony and National Anthems).
Following official correspondence with the Embassy of Australia in Greece and the distinguished Ambassador Mrs Alison Duncan, the Australian warships that participated in the military operations during the Battle of Crete will be presented, together with the donation of three commemorative silver coins from the Royal Australian Mint. These coins commemorate the Greek and Cretan campaign, the North African and Middle Eastern campaign, and the women of Australia in wartime.
In addition, the opening ceremony of the philatelic exhibition entitled “Crete 1940–46: The Difficult Years before the Outbreak of War” by the distinguished philatelist Giorgos Thomareis will take place. The exhibition includes philatelic material from the period of the Battle of Crete, such as stamps, postcards, envelopes, and related items.
Finally, the Maritime Museum of Crete will present a commemorative personalised stamp sheet, produced in collaboration with Hellenic Post (ELTA), featuring Australian warships, issued in a limited circulation edition.
