Ancient courage meets Anzac history in new Shrine exhibition

Opening today, the Shrine of Remembrance presents Spartans & ANZACs, a compelling new exhibition exploring the remarkable connection between the legendary Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC and the little-known stand of Australian and New Zealand troops at the same site in 1941.

Separated by more than 2,400 years, both battles saw small forces confront overwhelming odds in acts of extraordinary courage and sacrifice.

Through historical artefacts, interpretation and storytelling, Spartans & ANZACs reveals how the ancient stand of King Leonidas I and his warriors echoes in the ANZAC defence of Thermopylae and nearby Brallos Pass during the Second World War.

Curator Neil Sharkey said the exhibition offers visitors a rare opportunity to reflect on the enduring meaning of service and sacrifice:

This exhibition uncovers a little-known chapter of Australian military history while drawing a powerful connection to one of history’s most iconic last stands. It reminds us that across centuries, courage in the face of overwhelming odds continues to shape how we understand remembrance.

Spartans & ANZACs invites visitors to consider how stories of resilience, duty and sacrifice transcend time—and continue to resonate today.

On display in the Galleries of Remembrance until April 2027.

Free entry.

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