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Avierino
Dynasty

The History of Greek Settlers

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Foreword

From the Authors

This digital archive grew out of a personal attempt to restore the history of one family. But in the process, we realized that the fate of the Avierino dynasty reflects a whole era. Thousands of families arrived in the Russian Empire at the invitation of Catherine II, and thousands left it after the revolution.

We created this website to show the journey of Greek settlers and their contribution to the development of trade in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.

What's inside? We have painstakingly compiled a database of personalities. In the "Registry" section, you can search for people by surname and city. Perhaps your ancestors are among them. The interactive map and the "Historical Context" section will help vividly trace the migration routes.

The project lives thanks to the enthusiasm of caring people. If you find relatives here or have documents for the archive, please write to us.

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Island of Chios

Aegean Sea. In the 17th century, the island of Chios was under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. Captured by the Turks in 1566, it retained a broad internal self-governing structure: administration and tax collection remained in the hands of local Greek elders, and the Turkish garrison was small and inconspicuous. After the Genoese left, some of the Catholic population departed, but a few Latin families remained; the majority of the population were Orthodox Greeks. The foundation of Chios's wealth and unique status was mastic tree resin — collected in over twenty southern "mastic villages". Through this monopoly, the island made a significant contribution to the imperial treasury, but taxes remained light, making Istanbul consider Chios one of the most valuable provinces of the empire. The mastic trade provided employment for most of the rural population; residents also grew citrus fruits, grapes, and mulberries, produced silk and wine, and many engaged in trade. Wealthy families invested in education: the "School of Chios" was opened, and churches and mansions were built.

Where Greek and Russian Interests Intersected

1775: Catherine II offers benefits, land, and protection to anyone willing to settle the empty south. At this time, the first Avierinos are recorded in Taganrog.

1822: A wave of refugees from Chios makes these ports truly Greek. It was a pragmatic alliance: the Greeks gained safety, and Russia gained a powerful merchant fleet and grain exports.

A New Home: Taganrog

The main branch of the Avierino family settles on the shores of the Sea of Azov. Taganrog becomes their new homeland — a place of business, music, and family happiness for almost a century.

To the Empire's Capitals

At the turn of the century, a new generation seeks education and careers in the main cities of the Russian Empire — Moscow and St. Petersburg. Merchants' children move to the capitals to study. Here, the Avierino surname transitions from lists of sailors to lists of musicians, artists, and the intelligentsia, becoming part of Russian culture.

After 1917: Emigration

The revolution once again uproots the family. It cancelled the "contract" with the empire: private property and the old way of life disappeared. Having lost everything in Russia, the descendants of Avierino find refuge in Europe.

Registry of Persons

Historical Context

Turn the pages by pulling the edge

Support Independent Research

"Archive Rats" is a research project. Our projects in Digital Heritage are our volunteer activities; we operate without government support or grants. If you consider our work in digitizing archives and preserving memory important, you can support us. All funds go towards our work and the development of the digital platform.

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