Changing of Guards, Athens (2017)

The changing of guards in Athens in front of the Unknown Soldier monument, at Syntagma Square, before the Hellenic Parliament.
The Evzones, or Evzoni (Greek: Εύζωνες, Εύζωνοι), is the name of several historical elite light infantry and mountain units of the Greek Army. Today, it refers to the members of the Presidential Guard an elite ceremonial unit that guards the Greek Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Though the Presidential Guard is a primarily ceremonial unit, all Evzones are volunteers drawn from the Hellenic Army's Infantry Corps. Prospective Evzones are initially identified at the Infantry Recruit Training Centres during Basic Training; there is a minimum height requirement of 1.95 m (6' 5") to join.
The unit is known for its uniform, which has evolved from the clothes worn by the klephts who fought the Ottoman occupation of Greece. The most visible item of this uniform is the fustanella, a kilt-like garment. Their distinctive dress turned them into a popular image for the Greek soldier, especially among foreigners.
(Wikipedia)

[@oldminhimself4539]

I'm rather disappointed that this has been posted for several years and a casual scroll has not produced a single "Monty Python Ministry of Silly Walks" comment

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

why is that do you reckon???

[@johncorcoran3959]

Definitely different, great coordination, and skill. I thought it was a joke first, mighty .

[@depyk7989]

Yeah your ignorance and silliness are over the top!!!!

[@mwhittaker9159]

I came here to actually mention their likeness to MP Silly Walks. Still looking for an explanation as to what the exaggerated steps are about

[@jayracer24]

Their mothers must be so proud

[@PrimordialNyx]

Believe me, they are.

[@paokpaokara9601]

Now im not sure if ur talking sarcastically or not

[@belisioglipet4655]

😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆

[@merlinck1976]

🤣😂🤣😂

[@aggeloskosmidis7667]

Trust me if a mother sees her son there she would cry from happines and proudness

[@JapanMonAmourTheJapanHouse]

The movements: In addition to the complete immobility, a great "challenge" for every Evzone is also the Evzone pace. The steps are specific to each ritual and require absolute coordination and synchronization between the Ezones. The movement during the changing of the Guard is full of symbolism. The lifting and stretching of the leg is a representation of a kick, as when they were fighting hand to hand. After the foot salutes the dead, it falls down with force and pushes back, banishing the 400 years of slavery that have now passed. The union of the two legs symbolizes the union of the Greeks.

[@Indra-wj8ek]

Lovely explanation. Thanks ❤❤❤❤❤

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

One should remember these evzone battalions are probably one of the worlds best Mountain fighting battalion units. These Evzone units kicked the Italians back into Albania during WWII until Benito needed to call in his buddy Adolf for help, and the Ottoman Turks back into Asia in the Balkan wars

[@2070cube]

imagine thinking beating the italians is an achievement. their "buddy" beat you in 2 weeks though.

[@erwinrommmel2456]

​@@2070cubehahahahahahahahahah

[@davidlgilpatrick503]

These guys must have been really mad to kick anyone's butt.. I would be angry too to have wear a dress..and stockings..

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@2070cube While other European nations succumbed to the Nazi grip, Greece took a total of 216 days to give in. Greco-Italian War: October 28 1940 - April 6 1941 [160 days]. War against the Germans: April 6 1941 - June 1 1941 [56 days]. Total: 216 days of Resistance [or 7 months and 4 days]. And here's the days of resistance of other countries: Norway: 61 days. France: 43 days. [superpower of the time] Poland: 30 days. Belgium: 18 days. Holland: 5 days. Netherlands: 4 days. Yugoslavia: 3 days. Denmark: 0 days. [The Danes surrendered to one of Hitler's motorcyclists who was delivering to the Danish King Hitler's request for passage of Nazi troops. The Danish King in a gesture of submission handed over his crown to the motorcyclist so he could take it to Berlin for Hitler]. Czechoslovakia: 0 days. Luxembourg: 0 days.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@davidlgilpatrick503 I think you are confused, this form of costume was worn by the highland Greeks of the 18th and early 19th century. It was worn by the Greek rebels (who were mainly farmers) who defeated the Ottoman Turks in the Greek rebellion of 1821.Although the fustanella was a lot longer then. This highland costume was thus kept only for ceremonial reasons. Seriously you thought the Greeks wore this in WW1 and WW2??? Hahahahahaha!!🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@mingushill8416]

Greece gave us everything, thank you Greece...much love from Algeria.

[@bixbixi]

In 1:47 you may see the embossed figure of an ancient Greek soldier. It's stance, means something peculiar: These soldiers were fighting and traumatized with metallic swords and spears and subsequently were infected with tetanus - and died. This was a very common way to loose their lives. Extensor muscles contracture was the result of the infection and death, was supervene as a matter of tetanic "freeze" of the thorax/respiration. Clothing, has to do (and comes from) the ancient "imas", as a later variation. Imas was an everyday cloth, also a component of a millitary uniform - very common in the area, first in the Greek and subsequently in the Roman world. Illirians were part of the Roman world as well. Every detail in this ceremony, has a bihistorical explanation and comes from the deep time.

[@iamunikk4694]

Fustanella is Albanian body every source says that it came to you by the Albanian arvanit only them use it in Greece. You claim it to maintain a nationality cause all you revolution pictures and drawings are with the fustanella and Albanian arvanit tradition

[@ithor-vx5vn]

Come on bro. Go read please. Not everything is Albanian. @@iamunikk4694

[@princezzpuffypants6287]

​@iamunikk4694 "every source" ...that is categorically false. We see fustanella depicted in Greek art at least as far back as 11th century in Greece and similar articles of clothing depicted reaching back into ancient Greece. (I have no Greek heritage, this is just historical fact.) Don't worry, the similarity doesn't hurt Albania anymore than it hurts the Scots.

[@stevemason6604]

Friendliest people in the world. Great food and great culture. If I out live my family, I will go back to Greece and live out the rest of my life.

[@MustafaVEVOAk]

Dude have you been Greece before ? They are not different than any Eastern Europe country. Yes they have a great culture but you probably get robbed when you get there just saying.

[@mythmims7703]

@@MustafaVEVOAk i have been in a lot of European countries, and I must say that Greece is just Greece. I love the living style in Greece it's just the best in the world. if I could I would live there to the rest of my life

[@altay5085]

i think you are blind

[@pixytorres7117]

@@MustafaVEVOAk Still better than Mongolian Turkey.

[@aggeloskosmidis7667]

@@MustafaVEVOAk what the fuck are you saying dude

[@Rjlane-rd3ud]

"The full-pleated fustanella was worn by the Byzantine Akritic warriors originally as a military outfit" - Wikipedia. "Byzantine" is the academic name of the Eastern Roman Empire which outlasted the Western Roman Empire . "Fustanella" is name of that type of kilt. "Akritic" warriors were the Eastern European version of Western European Knights of Chivalry, and there are King Arthur type stories about them called "Digenis Akritas". It gave Greek soldiers a greater range of motion than pants; and that was an advantage in mountain warfare. The kilts that Scots, Greeks, Albanians, etc wear are relatively new ( 1700s or 1800s). The uniform looks unusual, but it is a result of lessons learned in battles of guerrilla mountain warfare. Armies like the American and British are designed for field infantry warfare. Unlike Scotland, Greece has thick underbrush. So Greeks wear tights with their kilts. The Scots kilt was designed for Rob Roy type irregular warfare. Apparently the Scots felt socks or boots were enough to protect them, because leggings are not part of the national kilt uniform as in Greece. The original purpose of pom-poms are to absorb moisture. Although these are clearly exaggerated. What you are seeing in the video is a new ceremonial version of the original historical uniforms from the Greek War of Independence. Remember that the tomb is for tourists, veterans, and school children. They aren't in actual combat. The actual Greek independence uniform was more off-white or beige, longer, and not as fancy. There are famous Greek independence battlefield paintings that show how the kilts were used. The original purpose of tassels are to discourage insects. The goose stepping is demonstrating the range of motion. A woman's skirt has nothing to do with range of motion like a man's kilt, because the purpose of a female's skirt is to protect the woman's sexual modesty. Pants show the outline of a woman's buttocks and thighs, and thus sexually suggestive. Kilts have to do with being a guerrilla warrior (ask a Scotsman), and skirts have to do with being an honorable lady.

[@miguelitoantonio1950]

Wow thanks for the info.

[@ilovel.a.658]

@@miguelitoantonio1950 also 400 pleats for 400 years under Ottoman Rule.

[@TheEpiccow400]

@@miguelitoantonio1950 kilts are skirts. change my mind

[@milantoth6246]

Very interesting, i never knew that. Thanks for the info!

[@pisquared1827]

>>Unlike Scotland Greece has thick undergrowth

[@annecohen8927]

There is so much artistry behind this unique changing of the guards. Perfect syncing.

[@catfyn]

And comedy values too.

[@kikiz9443]

​​@@catfynI've seen the guards change in person , it isn't that comedic , no offense.

[@user-ij9kk9ci5l]

It is laughable. Pure amateurism. Should revise their choreography 🤭🤭

[@generaldouglasmacarthur2419]

Enough internet for today

[@belisioglipet4655]

😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆

[@AirWolfAT6]

Your name makes this post even funnier.

[@Stickycoolguys]

Hate you

[@reecehigh1]

😅😅😅

[@demekatt5453]

I agree with you but it is the respect we give for each human who gave the most important thing (his/her own life) for the independent of Greek state. All this show is just to NEVER forget the person who died for our freedom.

[@potassium1311]

Greeks, this march is genuinely impressive and from what i've read has great symbolism. Every country has its own clothing style, its own traditions, its own culture. Dont let dickheads woth no connection do your culture ruin what is otherwise a massively impressive and beautiful march. Keep doing what youre doing 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇵🇹🤝🇬🇷

[@skyline3230]

that.was.incredible. they looked so graceful.

[@tuttt99]

Saw this last week on our night tour. Amazing

[@janiscomstock-jones1256]

The dignity & precision of the ceremony honors the unknown.

[@DarylReeceJames]

I absolutely love the Greeks and their culture. I have been there and it is a amazing country!

[@c-moon4320]

Thanks you where are you from?

[@ramonzimmermann3995]

It looks laughable 😂😂

[@hecker_642]

Do u love zaziki bc I love it and thnx

[@DarylReeceJames]

@@c-moon4320 United Kingdom

[@DarylReeceJames]

@@ramonzimmermann3995 what is zaziki?

[@Buzz9530]

I find it hard to watch, it's very elegant.. but the marching is snycopated and its really bugging me they are marching in 5/4 as opposed to 2/4 - very wierd to watch, but also truly amazing.. I was a horse guard on the changing of the guard for the British Army and Buck Palace.. this is a very different ceremony..

[@dannozzer]

Shut up

[@themandalorian2531]

I was watching this when I went to Greece in the summer

[@user-ij9kk9ci5l]

You had nothing better to do ? I mean what a waste of time don’t you think ?

[@Ulver27]

Its so difficult to count all those ignorant comments

[@darkwraithknyack126]

Sorry i dont respect symbolic poop. My new countey uses poop to symboliz freedom death integeity beauty blah blah intelligence and all those who died fighting. So if you hate poop then you are ignorant.

[@Ulver27]

@@eyb0ssss I don't. All I do is watching them

[@princezzpuffypants6287]

If they get ignored, they'll go to the bottom where no one will see them

[@johnmknox]

Fantastic. I love Greece. Their Special Forces are something else especially the way they can camouflage into their surroundings.

[@aliaguerin1266]

Al special forces can do that.

[@yunghousefly]

you dont understand ... back then they did it way different then everyone else .

[@supermavro6072]

You mean on the wall of cartoon figures ?

[@Thanos_Kyriakopoulos]

These are actual clothes of 19th century Greeks, not some weird costume a king or dictator came up with, like all other national guards. They are made for climbing mountains, not camouflage.

[@iamunikk4694]

@@Thanos_Kyriakopoulosthis are the Albanians traditional clothes and the arvanitas Albanian

[@mrhearse777]

Brilliant in every respect.

[@TheAgalmic]

They've got huge balls to wear that outfit, brave men indeed, I take my hat off to them. As to the skirts, well, try poking fun at a Scots Guard wearing a kilt next time you're in Scotland and see what happens.

[@christophersbarounis8473]

this uniform represents history of the hellenic nation that you cant even emagine when we where thiving your counties where just a pile of shit

[@JackSmith-xs2iy]

@@christophersbarounis8473 now your country is in massive debt and is a pile of shit

[@1godlessmonkey]

By that logic, the gay pride parade has some of the bravest men on earth. LOL!

[@1godlessmonkey]

@@christophersbarounis8473 Now you're country is a pile of shit! What happened?

[@madyin3509]

@@christophersbarounis8473 That’s right, be proud of what people achieved thousands of years before us so you can excuse what little your achieving right now 🤡

[@CarpeDiem-rm2vm]

Oh boi; I miss the Hoplites.

[@tsiaa6790]

Oh trust me this is still hard! The Οπλίτες would be impressed, standing still for that time, just like the hoplites did for three days unmoving in front of Cyrus!

[@shingosshojiopoulos6608]

Why?

[@Thanos_Kyriakopoulos]

These are exactly hoplites with winter clothes, you just need some imagination

[@greekadmirer2204]

Watching this in the moment is purely magical ❤❤love it .

[@paulzimmermann5876]

That has got to be one of the top for total outrageous marches.

[@MatrixGodfather]

Really interesting ceremony. Seeing as how so much of this has tradition behind it, I wonder where they came up with the march.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

what the evzones are wearing is if you look at it closely, is almost medieval. Evzones are wearing hose which was common for men in Rennaisance and Medieval times, and the fustanella is just an extension of the tunic. Just have a look at the way men dressed in Tudor England or rennaisance Italy, Its almost the same. That indicates that the clothing of the Evzones has roots in Medieval Europe (Byzantium).

[@princezzpuffypants6287]

Some of the marching is intended to demonstrate the range of motion possible in the uniform (as opposed to pants)

[@johnchatzisavvas8627]

I have to thank you for that comment cause its like an oasis among the other comments by uneducated retards

[@JapanMonAmourTheJapanHouse]

Today's Euzones only carry out missions of a ceremonial nature and their mission is to honorably protect the institution of the Republic, to honor the dead heroes of the nation and to continue the Euzone tradition. The Evzones are a symbol of world recognition and this is always in their minds when they train, when they walk, when they honor the flag on the Holy Rock for its raising and lowering, when they stand still, silent and expressionless at the Monument to the Unknown Soldier. Memorial dedicated to those who gave their lives and fought for the nation, which is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

[@JapanMonAmourTheJapanHouse]

The hard stomp on the ground is also symbolic. The Evzones while marching stomp shoes hard on the marble ground so the unknown dead of the Nation can hear. Today, during their departure from the Monument in the absolute silence that prevails, the stomp can also been seen as representing the new beginning of Hellenism

[@JapanMonAmourTheJapanHouse]

For modern Hellenism, Evzonos has been associated with the revolution of 1821, but also with the legendary "air" in the mountain peaks of the Pindos in 1940 where the ITalians were defeated by these mountain battalions and the Nazis held at bay. Today the evzones guard the tomb of the unknown soldier, who fell in the fields of wars for the honor and glory of eternal Greece, but also the home of the President of the Republic. Everything related to evzones is also symbolic. From their clothing to their movements and their pace The stand formed by the two evzones every hour at the monument of the Unknown Soldier forms the NO (OXI) to Mussolinis invasion of Greece. The head of the first chord is "O", the crossed rifles are the "X" and the so-called "black tear" tassle hanging from the cap of the second is the "I."

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

what the evzones are wearing is if you look at it closely, is almost medieval. Evzones are wearing hose which was common for men in Rennaisance and Medieval times, and the fustanella is just an extension of the tunic. Just have a look at the way men dressed in Tudor England or rennaisance Italy, Its almost the same. That indicates that the clothing of the Evzones has roots in Medieval Europe (Byzantium).

[@miq9806]

So proud

[@FBI-gr4iq]

everyone saying how them walking is funny should be ashamed. I am Greek, and though I may not know everything about these soldiers, I know that just like American soldiers, their marching is one of respect and honor and some serious dignity. We are proud people. Don't make fun of what you don't know, it only shows how little you think.

[@mwhittaker9159]

Then please explain why they March/walk like that!

[@julikasavic4112]

❤ looks like great exercise

[@xgkotkot42]

Does it look funny? Yes. Is it culturally irregular to our modern standards? Yes. Does it have a weird history behind it that most people don't know? Yes. Do you have to be immature and act like a toddler instead of reading a book? No.

[@Frietoe]

Do you have to be a douchebag who cant handle people having fun about something hilarious?

[@mrrandom1265]

* yes

[@prometheus7161]

@@Frietoe it is not hilarious for everyone. me, as a greek, I feel pride. not funny at all.

[@mindcreator7663]

Where is the funny?

[@popejaimie]

@@prometheus7161 of all the things Greece has accomplished, this is what you choose to be proud of?

[@billy-the-butcher]

One look at the comments, and I must admit I didn't expect to see so many turks interested in taking their time to comment on this. Lol

[@petemelanyevans9162]

That is due to the fact Turkish people are jealous of Greece...as in Americans do the same with great Britain ...no matter how big nations get . They never seem to shine as good as the older ones .

[@cemo3292]

yes because everyone who jokes about Greece is automatically a Turk :D IQ = 0

[@gildarichardson146]

This was just awesome Have never seen it 😮

[@stefamvro5868]

Informations, from a Greek..: Homer ( The far ancient, Greek poet, who wrote Odyssey and Iliad, many thousands of years, before us..), is the first who spoke about Ev-zones. The word Ev-zones, means "the ancient fighter, who is so good and experienced, that the only thing he needed, was a belt, made from good quality, not easy to broke, and with practical positions for his arms ( sword, etc ). The second man who spoke about Evzones, was Herodotus ( the Greek "father of History", the first who puts the bases of international historical writing ), at the known ancient-classical times of Greece. Nowdays, in order to honer, our ancient history and our fighters ancestors, the Tomb of Unknown Soldier, shows an ancient fighter, and the guards, are Evzones.. Uniform of Evzones..: Their hat is red, and shows the blood that we gave, for our freedom.. The black "strings" of the hat, are our tears for our dead, who gave their blood.. In general, the uniform is white, because our cause of fight ( freedom and justice ), is noble and "pure". Ancient Greeks, were mostly wearing the "chlamys". The "skirt", ( which we call it Foustanella ), is the nowdays "chlamys", showing that our history continuous.. Foustanella, is the "next generation" of chlamys, and we made Foustanella, at the times of Greek Byzantine Empire. And it was very practical, because our fighters, were fighting at the wild mountains, and couldnt have organized hospital etc. So with Foustanella, which was easy to be made, they could take care they wounds very easy, than with trousers. Also Foustanella was warm at winter, and cold at summer. And Foustanella, was a psycological weapon also.. because when the barbarians were threating us, it was more easy for us, to show them our balls.. so they knew, that we are fearless.. The Foustanella, have 400 edges, showing the 400 years, of occupasion of the Ottomans (400 years, of torturing.. slaughtering.. etc.. ). Shoes, are made of hard leather, with big nails, under them. The nails were very important for the fighters, because the land of Greece is full of mountains, and rocky places, and the fighters needed to defend themselves, or attack, on "bad" terrain. The black "fluffy" thing, at the front of the shoes, hides inside, a small knife, showing that, in order to fight for your freedom, you must fight with everything you have ( hands and feet ), and with arms that the enemy cant see.. And the guards, keep their feet high, to show how they were stabbing the barbarians.. Nowdays, when the guards walking, they hit hard their feet to the ground, so our ancestors can hear the nails, and they know that Greeks are still here.. alive.. and free.. Unfortunately, there are some people, who dont know, and they dont ask, about this "funny skirt ", and they only laughing at this uniform. ( Some of them knows, like Albanians and Turks, but they were-are allies against Greeks, so they dont count..) They must know, that this is an ancient fighters uniform, and these fighters were fought against Barbarians, countless of times, and if they can laugh, is because these fighters, kept them free of barbarism.. If they can look in a mirror, and can say that they are humans, and not Barbarians, is because of these Greek fighters, with THIS uniform.. And we deserve and demand, from all, to respect the blood that we gave.. for freedom and justice, against Barbarians, through thousands of years.. And an extra information..: At the very old times, when the ancient Greeks, travelled all around this planet, and named many places, they found an island, very beautiful, but foggy. They called this island "land of Skot-os".. In Greek means, the land without sun. Nowdays, this island is called Scot-land.. The national uniform, of the great Scottish nation, is kilt.. Kilt and foustanella, seems to have the same ancestor.. the chlamys..

[@porrito66]

looks cool af, love from spain 🇪🇦🤝🇬🇷

[@stefamvro5868]

​​​​​​​​@@porrito66Espana. Word with Ancient Greek root. "Espana - Εις Πάνα". Means that "we offer this land to our Greek God Pan". And the games, with matadors and bulls, with roots from the ancient Crete ( in Greek "Ταυροκαθάψια" ) Love from Hellas, to Espana !! To the beautiful land, and with good people ! To the land with the Columnas de Hercules.. 🤝 ❤

[@iamunikk4694]

fustanella is Albanian it was introduced to Greece by the Albanian arvanit who wore it in the revolutionary war. Greeks claim as their to maintain they’re nationality cause the ones that wore it were Albanian spoke Albanian even now and have traditions songs in Albanian language

[@iamunikk4694]

Every source says that fustanella is Albanian and got adapted by Greece

[@elliott7630]

Why are there so many men here that's so insecure about their masculinity? I would wear this uniform without a second thought.

[@dimigonidou]

Lmao, not that those uniforms were originally intentioned to be feminine as a greek, but I know right?

[@johntrailer1604]

This is a traditional Albanian costume worn in Albania to this day. It was appropriated by Greeks during the 1800's.

[@ManoiaFilms]

@@johntrailer1604 Although the modern Fustanella is closer to the Albanian one, the orgins of the Fustanella come from Ancient Greek outfits, not ancient Albanian ones.

[@johntrailer1604]

@@ManoiaFilms I disagree. Let us Albanians have one thing please. Don’t claim everything under the sun. It’s ok. You’ll be ok too. People will still praise Greece for other things

[@stenik055]

@@johntrailer1604 Albania didn't even exist in 1800. And the Scots Wear skirts but that doesn't mean the foustanela is Scottish. Everyone in the world knows that this is a traditional Greek uniform and that's why the Greek presidential guard wears it. I don't have seen any Albanian in such uniform. Also every part of this uniform means something to Greece so it cannot be Albanian. From young age childrens in Greece ware this uniform during celebrations

[@Jake-qc3mj]

I like the uniforms. The only thing that confuses me is the very slow marching pace. It seems a tad odd.

[@user-le8qd4sq9c]

The marching is slow because every step they do they hit their feet to the ground hard with these 3kg shoes so the dead hear them too it's weird I know I'm Greek and I don't fully understand it but it's our culture

[@josephgagaridis9504]

@@user-le8qd4sq9c Haha so hell can hear them & prepare the souls of our enemies 😉

[@survivingchicago5797]

“Seems a tad odd” really that’s the only thing you found odd about this?✊🏿

[@Jake-qc3mj]

@@survivingchicago5797 I mean the uniforms here are definitely different than the us army dress uniforms I usually see but I found the marching more strange overall than anything else.

[@iamunikk4694]

⁠the fustanella is Albanian it was introduced to Greece by the Albanian arvanit who wore it in the revolutionary war. Greeks claim as their to maintain they’re nationality cause the ones that wore it were Albanian spoke Albanian even now and have traditions songs in Albanian language

[@dimicri4586]

I dont think people know that these guards have to stay perfectly still for one hour on those extremely uncomfortable shoes that weight 3 kg each and on weathers like 40C.

[@petemelanyevans9162]

Why would it matter how heavy the shoes are if they are stood still ?

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Via Ted Guarino As one person put it, anyone calling these Evzones Clowns, should remember the evzone battalions are probably one of the worlds best Mountain fighting battalion units. These Evzone units kicked the Italians back into Albania during WWII until Benito needed to call in his buddy the Wall paper hanger, and the Ottoman Turks back into Asia.

[@cletedavis5849]

Great ceremony! As someone of Highland Scottish ancestry, if the Greeks are anything like the Scots, you damn well better not call that part of the uniform a "skirt"!

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

I think they are very smart and impressive, and I love their uniform, it has definitely that Balkan feel about it. The only other nation to wear a kilt (Greek fustanella) are the Scots.

[@l.a.h837]

It's like cartoons

[@martinh.6016]

The Greek version of Monty Python's Ministry of Silly Walks! 🤣

[@JapanMonAmourTheJapanHouse]

oh shut up!!!

[@dantheman4908]

Ok I have spent far too long in this comment section. Greeks learn to take a joke. Trolls show some respect for dead soldiers. Have a nice day everyone

[@rafaellagaribaldi2729]

its not just the Greeks who use pom poms,, french navy hats use a red pom pom as do Scottish military berets

[@ja37d-34]

And cheerleaders..

[@MIKRASIATISSA]

Let the ancestors know Greek nation still exists! Respect from Tourkia.

[@Survivalize93]

Your ancestors would be embarrassed and would have exterminated you

[@iamunikk4694]

the fustanella is Albanian it was introduced to Greece by the Albanian arvanit who wore it in the revolutionary war. Greeks claim as their to maintain they’re nationality cause the ones that wore it were Albanian spoke Albanian even now and have traditions songs in Albanian language

[@MIKRASIATISSA]

omfg shut the f up already, stop stealing people's culture @@iamunikk4694

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@iamunikk4694 The fustanella was a type of costume worn in the Balkan highlands by Greeks, Arvanites and Wallachians. It probably evolved as a matter of necessity because it was suited to the highland environment. So one cannot say who actually invented it. It just evolved as a matter of necessity. Greeks are the only Balkan nation where the fustanella is the national costume. The evzone costume is DEFINITELY NOT Albanian.

[@iamunikk4694]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 In Albanian territories the fustanella was used centuries before Ottoman rule.[24] A fustanella is depicted on a 13th-century proto-maiolica pottery fragment from Durrës.[25] A 14th-century document (1335) listing a series of items including a fustanum (a cloth made of cotton), which were confiscated from a sailor at the port of the Drin River in the Skadar Lake region of Albania.[26] In the late Byzantine period and the early Ottoman period southern Albanians migrated in Greece and in southern Italy, bringing with them their own custom, language and clothing, which included the fustanella garment.[27][28][29][30][31] In the 19th century the usage of the fustanella stretched through all Albanian inhabited lands, and it had become the ethnic costume characteristic of the Albanian men

[@FindingTheTruthMinistry]

Good ness, those shoes, that changing of guard, hah!! Very stylish ☺️😃

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Yes, they were a type of shoe worn in Rural areas of the Balkans.

[@hannanazreen8138]

really miss Athena....

[@13macapple]

im a proud greek..but...this is amazingly fantastic lol!!

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Its typical Balkan highland costume that was suited to the mountainous highlands of the Balkans. It was worn By Vlachs (Walachians) and Greeks and Albanians. The only other country that wore a kilt/fustanella was the highland Scots, again because that style of clothing suited the Scottish Highlands

[@iamunikk4694]

the fustanella is Albanian it was introduced to Greece by the Albanian arvanit who wore it in the revolutionary war. Greeks claim as their to maintain they’re nationality cause the ones that wore it were Albanian spoke Albanian even now and have traditions songs in Albanian language. No other country wore fustanella except Albanians arbereshe arvnit Albanian who live in Greece

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@iamunikk4694 I have never seen the Albanian gurads wearing the fustanella

[@sverkerpetersson1430]

I guess this is were Monty Python got their inspiration for the Silly walk sketch..

[@agant6860]

I was expecting them to slip and fall down but nevermind. Respect from Turkey 🇹🇷🇬🇷

[@stephaniekavadias9707]

Bruh

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Yeah, hobnailed shoes on marble sounds pretty dodgy

[@user-gz6ci9lf2w]

Okay. Then I could say offensive things about the British guards as well. Their hats are RIDICULOUS. I could continue but I don't want to. You're all so rude. Western people always make fun of something more unique of what they're used to

[@ioannisstr169]

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@ioannisstr169]

That's exactly what I was thinking about! Thank you for this comment!

[@user-gz6ci9lf2w]

@@ioannisstr169 You are Greek right?

[@ioannisstr169]

@@user-gz6ci9lf2w Yes, I am!😊 You?

[@user-gz6ci9lf2w]

@@ioannisstr169 Me too. I'm only 14 but I felt like I had to say something against those immature humans

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Today's Evzones only carry out missions of a ceremonial nature and their mission is to honorably protect the institution of the Republic, to honor the dead heroes of the nation and to continue the Evzone tradition. The Evzones are a symbol of world recognition and ecognised as some of the best mountain fighting battalions in the world, and this is always in their minds when they train, when they walk, when they honor the flag on the Ancient Rock of the Acropolis for its raising and lowering, when they stand still, silent and expressionless at the Monument to the Unknown Soldier. Memorial dedicated to those who gave their lives and fought for the nation, which is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

[@hanfbrot]

How I try to go up the stairs to my flat after the pub:

[@jstekic]

It is really sad is to see under this video all these ugly comments of stupid, shallow western people about one so unique and beautiful tradition.

[@Patralgan]

Sorry but it just looks silly af

[@rafaelar1297]

@@arberalbania2114 it's a replica of what the Greek rebels wore to free the country back in 1821 and prior. It was a traditional attire. If you only base your knowledge on wiki it's not gonna work.. Also, It's practical. Ofcourse it's altered though. The attire wasn't like this back in the day. I personally think they need to make some more changes, but who am i to judge. Calling someone's heritage "gay" Like the word itself is an insult? Lol. Kinda clownish.

[@lenamarkatou7931]

samurai tekashi and where you find money to make Epirus fustanella my little Albanian friend?you steal it from another countries I suggest !kisses from Italy 🇮🇹

[@lenamarkatou7931]

samurai tekashi I don t speak with the children of dictator Hoxha and your Albanian propaganda ...

[@mr31337]

They're not funny skirts, it's their national dresses.

[@random-b-i2480]

Nobody asked

[@jayracer24]

then why is it funny?

[@rafaelar1297]

@@random-b-i2480 nobody asked for your permission to speak tho lol

[@random-b-i2480]

@@rafaelar1297 bruh it's youtube comments you don't need permission how dumb can you actually be 🤦‍♂️

[@rafaelar1297]

@@random-b-i2480 you are acting like he does need it tho. How silly can you actually be to not be able to understand why I said it? Xd

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

The movements: In addition to the complete immobility, a great "challenge" for every Evzone is also the Evzone pace. The steps are specific to each ritual and require absolute coordination and synchronization between the Evzones. The movement during the changing of the Guard is full of symbolism. The lifting and stretching of the leg is a representation of a kick, as when they were fighting hand to hand. After the foot salutes the dead, it falls down with force and pushes back, banishing the 400 years under Ottoman slavery that have now passed. The union of the two legs symbolizes the union of the Greeks.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

I find it amusing that all the negative comments here are from Turks - Greece's traditional enemy - the Turks infact got shafted and totally humiliated by the Greeks in 1821 and then again in 1912 in the Balkan wars when the Greek navy terrified the pants off the Turkish navy to the point where the Turkish navy was too scared to come out of the Dardanelles. The evzone regiments gave the Turks such a beating and a thrashing in the Balkan wars that to this day they can still never get over it. Hence all the insulting comments. Poor Turks. Turks come here writing insulting comments yet If you look at the Turkish presidential guard doing their thing, they look like a bunch of waddling penguins lol.

[@thatromanguy1906]

those shoes 💀💀💀💀😂🤣🤣

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

What about them??

[@thatromanguy1906]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 idk they just look weird

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@thatromanguy1906 Well, they have their roots in the clogs that European farmers wore, and as I said many times, this style of clothing was worn by the Highlanders of the Balkan moutains

[@j.sansur730]

lovely pon pon soldiers

[@acidtechno8545]

turks in 1821 would shit themselves when they saw them though...

[@ares7780]

Big talking on internet, be carefull in Greece you Wil return in turgay without your teeth

[@j.sansur730]

@@ares7780 I won`t return, I`ll stay for another 500 years, ok ? grekosus assholesus

[@acidtechno8545]

@@j.sansur730 fucking up turks since 1821....

[@j.sansur730]

@@acidtechno8545 500 years kiss pon pon soldiers

[@firefox7801]

I wonder if marching moves look so awkward because they initialy held a spear in their right hand

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

who held a spear??

[@rvail136]

I don't understand the significance of the marching steps ...

[@nejamediarobertreich5125]

I have a deep respect for tradition and all... But ballerina skirts and leggings? Maybe time for some minor change anyway?

[@supermavro6072]

I heard they also wear Thongs, It's visible when they bend.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

I think they are very smart and impressive, and I love their uniform, it has definitely that Balkan feel about it. The only other nation to wear a kilt (Greek fustanella) are the Scots.

[@supermavro6072]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 They Iook like cIowns to me

[@azazel166]

Nope, this is a traditional garb and we aren't changing it.

[@john-pz4wr]

Alot of comments from crying non European Turkomongols,Albanogypsies and Fyromtatars haha

[@avokatiipopullit7870]

U are wearing albanian fustanella and insult as nice vlach villager nice

[@hellmarch3043]

What ever dude. Your soldiers dresses like a cheerleader.:D

[@dafdriver9552]

@@hellmarch3043 go before them and tell this to their faces,enjoy the results.

[@hellmarch3043]

@@dafdriver9552 I kick their asses without difficulty. They can't do a shit in those clothes. After that maybe the Greek army puts a Hoplite outfit instead of this cheerleader outfit.

[@dafdriver9552]

@@hellmarch3043 Sure you Do 😆

[@ggetoile]

I was here last year to watch this. It was beautiful! I don’t understand the music track on this. It’s woefully lame and frankly completely inappropriate. The exchange of the guards is quiet, solemn and carefully choreographed with clicks from the hand made nail taps in their shoes.

[@Indra-wj8ek]

Nice Dress

[@OsmanOsmanHan]

“Put on your skirts, we’re going to battle!” 😂

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Its called a fustanella, its a form of clothing that was suited to highland mountain wear, like the Scottish kilt.

[@supermavro6072]

Lmao

[@OsmanOsmanHan]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391hahhaah

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@OsmanOsmanHan Nothing funny about it, like the scots Kilt, the fustanella was suited to the extremes of Balkan highland climate and was worn by the highland Greek rebels in the 18th century. Thats how the Turks were easily defeated by the Greeks in 1821, the Turks wore big baggy pantaloons that were unsuited to mountain warfare and would get soaking wet resulting in testicle rot which was a bit like foot rot.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@OsmanOsmanHan hope that helps

[@otorishingen8600]

omg - sorry XD ...who designed those uniforms?

[@tsakeboya]

They weren't "designed". This is traditional clothing of the brave warriors that gave Greece it's independence some 200 years ago. Of course today they are only worn symbolically on parades and ceremonies.

[@panzerivausfg4062]

@Remon Put your brain to work

[@stenik055]

@Remon It's the national uniform of Greece and it symbolizes something very important that you don't know.

[@rafaellagaribaldi2729]

@Remon Because its suited the highland environment

[@jaykay3071]

Cute dress!!

[@simoschristoforou]

Respect the tradition of other countries.

[@supermavro6072]

​@@simoschristoforou This a tradition ?

[@simoschristoforou]

@@supermavro6072 Yes?????

[@supermavro6072]

@@simoschristoforou Greek men wear miniskirt. Greek women wear what ?

[@simoschristoforou]

@@supermavro6072 It's not a mini skirt. This is a traditional balkan skirt. And yes it is tradition. And Greece has more history than any other country in Europe?? Where are you from? Turkey??

[@corleone3594]

I think they have to design new uniforms to these guardians

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

The uniforms are fine, the length of the fustanella though should be broght to the same length as that of the Officers in my opinion. The uniforms have that difinitive Balkan look about them.

[@jonvaughn4834]

Do they shoot you if you laugh at them?

I dont want to be disrespectful but looks like looney tunes cartoons

[@joelewis8770]

How did those unique steps (or march?) come about?

[@PARIS-of7ll]

The soldiers hit their foot very hard.Every single thing they do is symbolic.They hit their foot in the ground so the dead of the war can hear them.

[@aknozkya6781]

What are they doing? This is so funny 😂

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

I think its impressive. What are they doing?.....................changing of the guard.

[@aknozkya6781]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 impressive?? Hhagaha

[@supermavro6072]

I think it's freakshow or something

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@aknozkya6781 Yes, I think it impressive.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@supermavro6072 In fact you can make comparisons with the Kilt of the Scots, just like the Kilt, the usage of the fustanella was typical for highland wear.

[@babalugats3540]

Is this a Monty Python sketch?

[@rafaellagaribaldi2729]

Wut??

[@AbsolvedUndertaker]

They need to ditch the leggings and pompom shoes, replace them with hoplite sandals, then we’ll talk. Although extremely flamboyant, those drill movements are very impressive. I did drill in bootcamp and hated it so I can’t imagine the hours of training they have to do to get to that point. Very impressive

[@DavidMartins1]

😆 😅 😂 🤣 I can't... This is like a comedy sketch.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

I think they are very smart and impressive, and I love their uniform, it has definitely that Balkan feel about it. The only other nation to wear a kilt (Greek fustanella) are the Scots.

[@supermavro6072]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 Are you gonna keep spamming same thing, this show is nothing to be proud of.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@supermavro6072 This is everything to be proud of.

[@supermavro6072]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 then we should send them to USAIBC. They'll make one outstanding performance in that competition.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@supermavro6072 No need to send them to the USA, they already have Evzones marching in all the major cities of the USA to celebrate Greek independence day, but thanks anyway 😃

[@hmuphilly9129]

Past spartan warriors be rolling in their graves.

[@shingosshojiopoulos6608]

Why?

[@hmuphilly9129]

@@shingosshojiopoulos6608 I would think because of their outfit vs ancient spartan armour.

[@shingosshojiopoulos6608]

@@hmuphilly9129 and what makes ancient Greek armour less silly? It's not like ancient Greeks wore good looking shoes and trousers

[@charlessavoie2367]

In case someone doesn't understand, a skirt is about having legs. A bra is about being female. In its origin, the skirt was simply about who wasn't riding a horse, not about gender. Mongols and Parthians invented twin tube leg garments for riding horses. And that is why Joan of Arc wore pants, but the English invaders in France burned her alive quoting the old misunderstood verse Deut 22:5.

[@666toysoldier]

One of my professors told of being on a cruise around Greece. Their ship was about to cast off when one member of the tour came staggering and limping down the dock and crawled on board. Seems he had been in a bar when a guy in a "tutu" came in. He made the mistake of making fun of him.

[@h31212]

Why do they give all those badass guards such ridiculous clothes and marches lmao

[@philippa2772]

those are the traditional and historical greek military clothes, that's what was worn when greece won independence

[@h31212]

@@philippa2772 Lol damn. What about the silly walk?

[@DaPepper]

h31212 it is all symbolic. I’m no expert but it has something to do with stomping and kicking up dirt to let the dead know we are still free

[@gamingthisera6339]

@@DaPepper after Knowing that, make sense

[@treygreen5015]

@@DaPepper We have to trust him. His last name is Konstantinos.

[@timothymichaels1352]

😂😂😂😂

[@michaelekstrom7698]

Looks like the have their own Monty Python Division...

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Oh shut up!!

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

oh shut up!!!

[@user-kv3fm8rt6m]

What is going on with the uniforms??!! Where n who thought that looked fearsome ..

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Who said anything about fearsome?? It was just traditional costume worn in th Greek highland clans mainly farmers whio ultimately became the rebels who defeated the Ottoman Turks in 1821. Thats why the costume was retained as just ceremonial dress

[@f.herumusu8341]

Watch this in double speed: Better than Monty Pythons "Ministry of Silly Walks"! :D

[@allesschwarz_liebe5871]

F. Herumusu Lmfaooo 😂😂😂😂😂

[@melihaltunisik]

dayyumm,nice skirts

[@rafaellagaribaldi2729]

They are called Fustanella

[@wendymew6694]

Oh wow! Even the royal guards have bodyguards. 😂 It’s amazing how they preserved this unique traditional culture. 💕

[@ngaserossa]

Bro what is that thing they wear it dont looks like comfortable for fight.

[@beanstopaythebills5369]

Go read history and learn if u want to

[@ngaserossa]

@@beanstopaythebills5369 still its not for war

[@beanstopaythebills5369]

@@ngaserossa welp ye wee don't wear its national wearing for the people who fought 1821 and gave us Freedom

[@ngaserossa]

@@beanstopaythebills5369 maybe thats why they lost some wars at 1800s i dunno

[@beanstopaythebills5369]

@@ngaserossa the suit helped to be more flexible and under the bootss the have spikes also the won the ottoman empire which was 3-4 times bigger

[@mert3976]

The song makes it even funnier

[@mert3976]

@Basilis16 Agoris also greeks burned half of our country while turkish war of independence forgot to mention lol

[@mert3976]

@Basilis16 Agoris turkey killed 3k assad soldier in 1 day because they refused to apology for 34 turkish soldiers killed go search turkey air attack on idlib turkey released small footages from operation which is already a lot turkish unmanned aerial vehicle shoot russian 1 s-300 air defence system in syria idlib and 1 s-300 in libya sirte turkey would be in athens less than 7 days watch your tongue lol

[@mert3976]

@Basilis16 Agoris bro haftar begged for mercy what the fuck are you talking about lol

[@menakeldebakel253]

I'm a big friend of culture and history, but sometimes it's better when it's just a page in a book ..

[@aggeloskosmidis7667]

Well then you ain't no friend of history nor culture

[@tsiaa6790]

Αλήθεια, άμα δεν έχεις τι ποτά να πεις

[@sandromagnas8419]

Why they walk like that

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

I think they are very smart and impressive, and I love their uniform, it has definitely that Balkan feel about it. The only other nation to wear a kilt (Greek fustanella) are the Scots.

[@islamgarhlakhora]

No comparison between the Scottish kilt and and that thing the Greeks are wearing. The Scots look very smart ,the Greeks look comical .only their mothers would say they are smart.

[@supermavro6072]

@@islamgarhlakhora exactly, the scots are disciplined and their outfit have more charisma. This clown show is goofy and almost Iook like soldiers doing ballerina.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@islamgarhlakhora The Greek evzones DO look very smart and impressive. But certainly the longer kilt or fustanella looks more like the Scottish kilt.

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@supermavro6072 I disagree, the Greek evzones look every bit as impressive as the Scots, but I prefer the longer knee length fustanellas worn by the Officers. Both the Greek fustanellas and Scottish kilts are pleated.

[@supermavro6072]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 Keep encouraging them, so they won't cry. 😭😿👏

[@psychedelostrance73]

😅😂

[@Reichsritter]

Men in skirts and leggings jumping around, the one who made this up was probably just trolling

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Its not a skirt, its an extension of the Tunic. what the evzones are wearing is if you look at it closely, is almost medieval. Evzones are wearing hose which was common for men in Rennaisance and Medieval times, and the fustanella is just an extension of the tunic. Just have a look at the way men dressed in Tudor England or rennaisance Italy, Its almost the same. That indicates that the clothing of the Evzones has roots in Medieval Europe (Byzantium).

[@vulon]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 no rafaella it looks like final fantasy character im sorry

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@vulon Not at all, just have a close look at medeival clothing, If it looks like final fantasy its because final fantasy characters are wearing clothing that resembles Medievall clothing. You just said it yourself.

[@zackc2857]

Monty Python's flying circus

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

Yes that was great TV series

[@karlhammer8151]

А что в страна? Индия?

[@TuranMp]

nice greek soldier (really)

[@islamgarhlakhora]

Funniest thing I've ever seen🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

I thoughtit looked impressive

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

via Donar W. In costume terms, some things will have to change if we want the evzones to be more like the fighters of 1821, the Macedonian (northern Greek) fighters, etc. Basically the uniforms used now are the costumes carried by the Evzone battalions of the regular army from the mid-19th century to the BEP, that is, they looked like the Greek costumes but too varied to meet the daily needs of the army. Now there is no such need, the Guard is to pay tribute and for foreigners to see and learn Greek History. 1.The official kilt of the soldiers is very short, normally it is below the knee or at least on the knee like that of the officers,especially when the soldier is over 1.90 it is a ridiculous sight. The sleeves of the fermeli in the official uniform must be worn by the soldiers, as in the past 3. The summer doulamas is a very poor outfit and causes laughter to all strangers . It should be replaced immediately perhaps with a fustanella of no white color and a light collar on the shirt, as it is now bursting from the heat. Also in the summer you could use the breeches as guards carrying and a gun and a Cretan knife. 4. The winter doulamas of the Macedonian (northern Greek) fighter should be longer with the addition of a fustanella from the inside, as the Macedonian (northern Greek) fighters really wore it. 5. In the official the officers must have a long belt or a silah to remind of the chieftains of 1821

[@averagecomicsenjoyer6545]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 LMFAO UR THE SAME PERSON WHO COMMENTED "WEIRD" TO THE TURKISH GUARD SOLDIER CHANGE VIDEO DONT YOU? F*ING CLOWN

[@rafaellagaribaldi9391]

@@averagecomicsenjoyer6545 Yeah their ceremonial guards look weird. They even wear combat helmets LOOOL.

[@averagecomicsenjoyer6545]

@@rafaellagaribaldi9391 clown

[@TongueCutOutByYoutube]

Lol I think they are waiting for the enemy to show up for a silly shoe dance off