The first school

What I can see

It is a simple building on Egnatia Street, with neoclassical elements. It has two floors, with large and symmetrically arranged openings. The entrance is designed in a declining style just like the balcony on the second floor, creating therefore a reception space. Doric and Ionic pilasters adorn the first and second floor respectively, while at the base of the building rests on scaffolding with Kyphotic ornamentation. The two levels are separated by a cornice that runs around the building. It nowadays houses the 13th Secondary and 17th High School of the city.

What I can't see

It is the oldest surviving school of the Greek community in Thessaloniki dating back to the time when the city still belonged to the Ottoman Empire. It was probably designed by the distinct architect Ernst Ziller (with some later modifications), who was chosen by the Greek community of the Ottoman Thessaloniki, in a bid to strengthen its presence in the multiethnic city and shape its national identity. Therefore, preferring the neoclassical style that drew its inspiration from the ancient Greek architectural tradition. The Greek kingdom supported these choices within and outside its territory and hence Athens for instance was transformed into a neoclassical city. One of the leading and most experienced architects of neoclassicism, with a diverse set of works (mainly in Athens), was Ernst Ziller, who -apart from the school- designed the Cathedral and the former Greek consulate in Thessaloniki. In the area around the school, one can see some of the churches of the Greek community. It was the centre of the social, cultural and religious life of the thriving and vibrant community that rivalled in wealth and strength the Turkish and Jewish of the city.

Info

• Address: 132 Egnatia & K. Palaiologou St.

Bibliography