Early Life and Family

Michalakis Savva came into the world on January 30, 1932, in the village of Akaki, in the Nicosia district. His parents, Savvas Hadjikyriakou and Eleni Yiakoumi, raised him alongside his siblings: Lefteris, Avgousta, Theognosia, and Kyriakos.

Education and Trade

Michalakis Savva (also known as Michalakis Hadjikyriakou) completed his primary education at the Akaki Elementary School. He worked as a blacksmith, a trade that would later prove invaluable to the EOKA struggle.

Contribution to the Armed Struggle

Michalakis joined the Organization from the very beginning of the liberation fight. He distinguished himself through his inventive mind, creating bombs of his own design—the infamous “mine-cannons” and hand grenades known as the “Michalakis Savva type.” For explosive material, he used ammonium nitrate fertilizer mixed with sulfur and ground charcoal. He maintained two workshops for his constructions, one in Akaki and another in Avlona.

The Flag Incident

In October 1956, British soldiers tore down the Greek flag from the bell tower of Akaki’s church and shredded it. Michalakis responded by placing another flag in its position, but this time he mined the area. When British soldiers attempted to lower it again, the explosion killed them instantly.

Role as a Liaison

Michalakis rendered tremendous service as a liaison officer. Using his car (registration number B674), he transported wanted persons, weapons, and Organization correspondence throughout the Morphou sector. The operations and ambushes he participated in stretched from Akaki to the region of Kontemenos and Myrtou villages.

Final Days and Sacrifice

By February 1957, when EOKA fighters intensified their activities in his area, Michalakis Savva had almost completely abandoned his work. He devoted all his time to executing the Organization’s orders.

On March 10, 1957, Michalakis and his group attempted to blow up the large Serrachis bridge. Rainy weather prevented proper detonation, forcing them to postpone the operation. The next day, Michalakis noticed suspicious troop movements and boot prints in the riverbed. He sent a fellow fighter to warn the guards and signalers to retreat while he went toward the bridge to check the mines. British soldiers, lying in ambush, opened fire and killed him.

Legacy

On this day, March 11, 1957, Michalakis Savva fell fighting for the freedom of Cyprus. His inventive genius, his courage, and his ultimate sacrifice secure his place forever in the pantheon of heroes.