Spartans & ANZACs | 480 BC - 1941

@ Shrine of Remembrance

This exhibition reveals the link between the legendary 480 BC battle and the little-known 1941 stand, where Australian and New Zealand troops faced overwhelming odds at Thermopylae.

Thermopylae - 480 BC

Australia had its own Thermopylae. We've just forgotten it.

In 480 BC, one of history's most famous battles was fought in central Greece at the narrow coastal pass of Thermopylae.

For three days, a few thousand Greeks-led by 300 Spartan warriors and their king, Leonidas I-held back a vast Persian army.

Eventually encircled, the Spartans and their allies were killed.

Their stand, however, allowed thousands of comrades to escape and fight on, leaving an enduring example of courage and sacrifice.

Thermopylae - 1941

In April 1941, on the eve of Anzac Day, Australian and New Zealand troops returned to this same ground.

Outnumbered and under relentless pressure from advancing German forces, ANZAC units used the rugged terrain of Thermopylae and nearby Brallos Pass to delay the enemy, enabling thousands of Allied soldiers to withdraw to safety.

SPARTANS & ANZACS draws a powerful connection between these two defining moments.

It reveals how service, sacrifice and mateship transcend time, linking ancient warriors with modern soldiers in a shared legacy of courage.

This exhibition invites reflection on the enduring values forged in conflict-and how these stories continue to shape the meaning of remembrance today.

This exhibition was supported by the Victorian Government and the Victorian Veterans Council.

15 April 2026 - April 2027

Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine is open to visitors every day of the year except Christmas Day and Good Friday.
Hours: 10am - 5pm
Entry: free (donations welcome)







 Shrine of Remembrance View Venue
 Corner St Kilda Road and Domain Road Melbourne Victoria 3001 Map



Advertiser: www.shrine.org.au

→ www.shrine.org.au

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