Modiano Market

What I can see

Modiano Market is a stretched one-storey building with a glass roof and pediment façade. It has a basement, balconies, three aisles, in which 150 stores are housed, and consists of four stoas. It also provides natural light and ventilation through the glazing. Although it belongs to the eclectic buildings, it is peculiar because of its morphological stringency, i.e. the vertical symmetry in the façade, the separation into a base, main body and crowning and motifs reminiscent of Greek antiquity. The market includes food stores and cafe- restaurants.

What I can't see

It was designed by Eli Modiano, in accordance to the European standards of the time and is one of the first buildings in the city, built with the technique of reinforced concrete. It was erected in the former Jewish district Kadi, which burned in the great fire. A big celebration took place at the inauguration. Champagne and caviar were offered to the rich and bread and cheese to the poor. For many decades it used to be the central market of the city. In former times itinerant musicians with clarinets and drums used to populate the place, which combined with oriental and traditional smells and flavours created a special type of atmosphere. The lack of the market’s maintenance led to the closing of several stores due to the loss of revenue. Consequently the building was privatised.

Info

• Address: Komninon & Vas. Irakleiou St.

Bibliography