What I can see

It is considered an important building because it harmoniously reflects the architectural trends of the time (late 19th century). It has a square plan, many openings, a central triangular pediment and neoclassical elements, such as false parapets and cornices. The main facade is characterized by strict symmetry. In the centre of the pediment, there is a circular decorative element (ox’s eye) and there was also an inscription in the old Turkish script that was recently removed. The wooden column in the centre of the facade has no purpose other than to create a vertical axis. The same applies to the false parapets of the ground floor and the edges of the floor. The windows on the first floor are framed by wooden frames, while on the ground floor the frames are arched.

What I can't see

According to one view, it was built as a school of the Muslim quarter Suluca of the Ano Poli (Upper Town). According to another view, it may have been a house with a ground floor and an upper floor and was later converted into two separate houses per floor. It was bought by the municipality and houses its services till this day. Theophilou Street had many buildings of traditional architecture until the late 1970s. Many were severely damaged by the 1978 earthquake, others were demolished before the architecture of Ano Poli was protected by law and neo-traditional buildings were built.

Info

• Address: 29 Theofilou St.

Bibliography