Established in 1838 the Leonteio Lykeio Patision stands as a testament to Athens’ rich educational history. Its story is one of humble beginnings and remarkable growth. Initially a small primary school for boys the school was named after Athens’ patron saint Saint Dionysius the Areopagite. It quietly operated in the Plaka district. However its destiny was about to change.
By 1889 the school expanded to include both elementary and secondary education. It received a significant boost thanks to Pope Leo XIII. He admired Greece and funded an ambitious expansion project. The school was then renamed the Leonteio Lykeio of Saint Dionysius. This honored the Pope and elevated the institution’s status.
The school moved to a modern building on Sina Street in central Athens in 1897. Despite its upgraded facilities a period of decline followed until 1907. The Catholic Bishop of Athens made a wise decision. He sought the help of the Marist Brothers. This group of Catholic monks had a proven track record running successful schools in Istanbul. Their arrival marked a turning point.
Under the Marist Brothers’ expert guidance student numbers tripled. The Leonteio Lykeio thrived. The school even expanded to Patras in 1916. There it established the Saint Andrew School. This school remained open until the end of World War II in 1945. It’s a fascinating fact that Costis Stephanopoulos a former President of the Hellenic Republic was a student there.
World War II brought challenges. Both schools temporarily closed. The Marist Brothers demonstrated extraordinary compassion. They organized soup kitchens providing 3000 meals daily during the occupation. This act of kindness highlights the school’s enduring commitment to community service.
In 1924 a new campus opened in Patisia. It became known as the Leonteio Lykeio of Patisia. By the early 1960s the Sina Street campus was overflowing. It housed 700 students. A new campus was needed. Construction of a magnificent new facility in Nea Smyrni began. It opened in September 1962. President Charles De Gaulle of France himself inaugurated the new building.
In 1986 the Leonteio Lykeio became co-educational reflecting the changing times. Today the Leonteio Lykeio Patision continues to uphold its reputation. It boasts a remarkable list of alumni including prominent figures like Costis Stephanopoulos Archbishop Christodoulos and the renowned composer Vangelis. Each graduate carries a piece of this institution’s enduring legacy. The Leonteio Lykeio Patision truly embodies the spirit of Athens.