Introduction
My name is Panagiotis (DL6PS), and together with my YL Samara (DO1SCS), we live in Nuremberg, Germany. In addition to our interest in astronomy, we recently discovered the fascinating world of amateur radio. What attracted us most to this hobby is its power to connect people from different nations and cultures.
A Journey to My Roots
As the grandson of Greek immigrants who moved to Germany, I belong to the second generation born abroad. For me, visiting Greece in 2025 was more than just a holiday – it was also a journey to reconnect with my roots. Naturally, I wanted to experience not only the beaches, the sea, the museums, and the archaeological sites, but also amateur radio in Greece.
That is how I discovered the SZ1A Club Station. I immediately told my YL:
“We absolutely must visit this place!”
The Day of the Visit
I contacted the station and was warmly welcomed. A visit was quickly arranged for the 18th of August, 2025 – not knowing at the time that it would become the highlight of my vacation.
The day finally arrived. We drove first to Agrinio, where we met Kostas, SV1DPI. After a short stop for a refreshing frappé (the famous Greek iced coffee), we continued our way towards the club station. The drive itself was a joy – a mix of picturesque villages and beautiful landscapes.
And then, there it was: the SZ1A Club Station. The sight was breathtaking.
…then, there it was: the SZ1A Club Station. The sight was breathtaking.
Exploring the Station
From the very beginning, the visit was unforgettable. The guided tour started right away, and to our delight, we were not the only visitors – several dogs and cats from the area kept us company, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. We explored the grounds, admired the impressive variety of antennas, and discovered many small technical refinements that made the place unique.
One of the highlights outside was a post decorated with signs showing distances to the many countries from which visitors had come to SZ1A over the years. This simple yet powerful display captured the true spirit of amateur radio: friendship across borders.
Inside the Shack
Inside the building, we were shown the cozy living room, the kitchen, the guest rooms, and finally… the shack itself – the heart of the station.
The shack was a room full of exciting technology, with many ingenious and customized solutions specifically tailored for contest operation. I could probably write pages and pages just about this room, and still not cover it all. My personal favorite was the so-called MOAS – the Mother of All Switches – something I had never seen before!
Operating and QSOs
After a short break in the living room, we were joined by Vasilis, SV1DPJ. Soon we returned to the shack and made several QSOs.
With the antenna pointed towards the German-speaking countries, we had a series of wonderful contacts. Then, once again, the cycle repeated itself: discussions about antennas and technology, then back to the radios – a rhythm that truly reflects the spirit of amateur radio.
Hospitality and Reflections
As night fell and hunger set in, we all went to the city together, where we ended the day with a delicious meal.
What my YL and I felt most strongly during our visit was the incredible hospitality and the clear dedication and love for the hobby that permeates everything at SZ1A. The work being done here is truly impressive, and for us, one thing is certain:
The next time we visit Greece, a stop at SZ1A will again be an essential part of our journey.
…the incredible hospitality and the clear dedication and love for the hobby that permeates everything at SZ1A
We sincerely thank the team for their hospitality and look forward to meeting again.
