The Greek Connection

 

It is thought that Ahmed Pasha Rasheed was born in Greece and became the slave of Ahmed Agha either in Kavala (part of Albania at that time) the Greek Islands of Crete, Kiros or in Egypt.

 

The Story

 

After the Mamelouks were out of the way, Mohamed Ali establish himself as the sole power in Egypt and started the significant reforms needed to restore the economic, and military health of the country.  He offered his brother in law, Ahmed Agha, who was the governor of the Albanian City of Kavala (now part of Greece) the job of “Commander of the Alexandria fleet of ships” and the title of “Amir Al Bahr” (Prince of the Sea or Admiral).  Ahmed Agha accepted the job and moved to Egypt with his family and entourage of “slaves”. 

 

One of Ahmed Agha’s “slaves” was a young Greek by the name of Demetrious Benzaris (Demitry Panzaris).  Some said Demetrious was born on the island called Kiyos ( Kyos islands of Greece) and bought in Kavala, Crete or Egypt.  As part of the household of Ahmed Agha he was given a proper education, and good jobs.  On his deathbed, Ahmed Agha gave Demetrious his freedom. 

 

Today, it is thought that Greek descendants of Demitry Panzaris’ sister, Katerena, live in Alexandria, Egypt.  Their names are thought to be 

 

Stella, Sapho, and Marika Papapandelidis

 

It is also thought that Egypt had an Ambassador from Greece by the name of Lambros who also might be a related to Demitri Panzaris.

 

 

 

 

The Traveling Panzaris

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


WEB Links….

Rounded Rectangle: Notable Greek Figures
Rounded Rectangle: Greek Music
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated 11 April 2011