The Vibrant Greek Community of Córdoba, Argentina

What all members of the Greek diaspora around the world have in common is their great love for their rich culture and ancient roots. This is precisely what the Greek Community of Córdoba in Argentina has dedicated itself to for more than 80 years of its existence in the capital city of the Argentinian province that shares the same name.

Today there are various institutions that promote Greek culture in Argentina. They teach courses in the Greek language, dance, and cuisine, as well as holding multiple Greek festivals each year. The Greek Community of Córdoba, which was founded on June 29, 1941 is currently the meeting place for Greek and Philhellene families who reside in the city.

Greek Reporter spoke recently with Nicolás Kontos, who is an active part of the community. Kontos’ family was part of the last migratory wave of Greeks who immigrated to Argentina in the ’60s.

Since then the whole family has been active participants in the Community. His cousins, uncles, and everyone else all celebrate Greek festivities. “Thinking about my childhood and youth is thinking about the community,” says Kontos, who adds “many of the family encounters took place directly in the community.”

More than 80 years of the Greek community of Córdoba

The Greek roots in Córdoba have left a great legacy. The community is beloved by the Argentinians: they are often invited to perform traditional Greek dances and show off Greek food at different venues across town.

The anniversary celebration coincided in 2021 with the gala for the Bicentennial of Greek independence. This represented a steep challenge for the institution, which was tasked with rethinking the celebrations that traditionally take place annually in the community.

A celebration was held in the historic City Hall of the city of Córdoba, with dances and traditional plate smashing. Authorities and former presidents of the group participated enthusiastically.

The group is currently planning to develop the first book on “Greek Cuisine in Córdoba”. The contents of the book will be drawn from the experiences of the families who are members of the Greek Community of Córdoba.

The role of women in supporting Greeks of the diaspora will take center stage in the project. The institution seeks to unite Greeks across different generations.

Live Hellenism

The community has established itself for reinventing traditional Greek festivities. Kontos said that he hopes other communities of the Greek diaspora can reinvent themselves in this new context.

“I encourage all countrymen to continue working, to live Hellenism with passion. Ideas and alternatives will emerge to enhance the legacy left by our grandparents,” says Kontos.