With great honor and emotion, I had the opportunity to conduct an in-depth interview with Mr. Antonios Chloros, President of the Attica Psychiatric Hospital ”Dromokaiteio”, as part of my long-term research project “The Treasures of the Kampos”
We discussed the history, operation, and significant social contribution of Dromokaiteio, an institution that remains to this day a living symbol of humanitarianism and care in Greece. The hospital was founded in 1887 as the “ZORZIS AND TARSIS DROMOKAITEIO MENTAL HOSPITAL” and has continued its work uninterrupted for more than a century.
I also had the opportunity to be guided through all the hospital facilities, as well as the Dromokaiteio Museum, a significant and unique hospital museum. Established in 1995, it is considered the first of its kind in Greece, functioning as a living archive of the institution’s history.
Its collections preserve valuable material, including portraits of the Hospital’s Presidents, historical photographs, medical and pharmaceutical instruments, archival documents, as well as ecclesiastical relics and icons. Together, these materials reflect the development of psychiatric care in Greece from the 19th century to the present day.
It is also noteworthy that Dromokaiteio is often referred to as the “Chiot hospital,” as its history, administration, and identity have been closely connected with Chios and major Chiot families and benefactors. These include families such as the Skylitsis and Syngros families, as well as other important figures of the Chiot diaspora. It is also noteworthy that all Presidents of Dromokaiteio originate from Chios, highlighting the institution’s deep and continuous historical connection with the island.
Particularly moving is the fact that the legacy of Zorzis Dromokaitis continues to live on today through the support and generosity of people who keep his vision alive.
At the same time, the current condition of the family’s main residence in the city of Chios—belonging to the General Hospital of Chios “Skylitseio”—is deeply regrettable, as it has been left abandoned for decades and exposed to the passage of time.
It is truly sad to see such an important monument of Chios’ history remaining unused and without the necessary care and restoration. These buildings are not simply properties; they are living testimonies of history, education, social contribution, and the cultural identity of our place.
Zorzis Dromokaitis was not only a great benefactor. He was one of the most important figures of modern Hellenism, a man who connected Chios, the diaspora, social solidarity, and the concept of offering to humanity. Born in the Kampos of Chios in 1805, he created through a remarkable life journey a legacy that continues to serve humanity to this day.
Through this research, it is once again confirmed that the Kampos of Chios is not simply a collection of mansions and orchards; it is a living place of memory, history, and people who left an indelible mark on Greece and the world.
Warm thanks to Mr. Antonios Chloros for his hospitality, trust, and valuable discussion, as well as to all the staff of Dromokaiteio for their kindness and support. Special thanks to Mrs. Panagiota Korpaki for the excellent guided tour of the Dromokaiteio Museum, and to Mr. Panagiotis Gambranis for his significant contribution to the audiovisual material of this research.