One of the greatest figures of contemporary Greek and European intellectual life

Hélène Glykatzi‑Ahrweiler, a distinguished historian and Byzantinist of international renown, passed away on 16 February 2026 at the age of 99.

Glykatzi‑Ahrweiler was one of the most significant figures in contemporary intellectual life, recognized internationally for her work on Byzantine history and her academic contributions. Born in Athens in 1926, she studied history and archaeology and later settled in Paris, where she pursued an outstanding academic career.

Her work remains a milestone in the study of Byzantium, and she was widely known for her teaching and public interventions on education and culture. A landmark moment in her career came in 1967, when she became the first woman to serve as Chair of the History Department at the University of the Sorbonne, and in 1976, the first female Rector in the institution’s 700-year history.

Connection with Komvos

Hélène Glykatzi‑Ahrweiler was also an important supporter of ideas related to knowledge, intellectual engagement, and public debate on society and culture. As a member of the steering committee for the establishment of Komvos, she contributed her prestige, experience, and intellectual presence to shaping the institution. Her participation in this initiative reflected her trust in our goal of creating a space for dialogue and collaboration between science, society, and policy.

Her passing leaves a void in the Greek and European intellectual community, but her work and legacy will continue to inspire generations of scholars and thinkers.

Komvos honors her memory and extends its heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones, paying tribute to one of the greatest intellectual figures of our time.