An exhibition of historic archive material, comprising rare book editions, maps, photographs, and engravings was unveiled Thursday in the Embassy of Greece in Beijing to commemorate the 2,500-year anniversary of the Battle of Marathon.

The exhibition was jointly organized by the Embassy of Greece in Beijing and the Greek Ministry of Culture & Tourism. 

The exhibits focus on the ideological movements of 18th and 19 centuries, and on the intellectuals, poets, authors and artists of this period, who were inspired by the presentation of Marathon Battle in the books of their time.

A number of great works were on display in several sections such as "The Mythical Marathon Warriors",  "Imaginary Depiction of Marathon Battle", "Marathon Runners, Legends of History", "The Press and the Marathon in the Olympic Games 1896", and "The Books on Marathon Battle".

Through these works one can get a glimpse of the significance of this Ancient Greek History milestone for the modern Western civilization and also learn that modern Greece is highlighted as integral continuation of its past.

The guests of the event were highly impressed by the documentary film of Ms. Maria Hatzimixali – Papaliou, "Atheneans Fighting for Greeks", a hymn to Marathon, a film glorifying the Marathon Warriors, whose sacrifice made Greece a symbol of freedom and democracy.

The exhibition will last till the end of December 2010.