What I can see

The Thessaloniki International Fair venues have been the heart of the city’s economic life for decades. They include 17 pavilions, all in the same architectural style of the period from 1960 to 1975. The Pavilion of Nations stands out, built in the style of the Doxiadis buildings and public buildings during the years of the Marshall Plan. Pavilion 5 is considered by some architects to be the one with the most modern and clear lines, out of all the ones built in that period. The choice of colours and materials on the facades gives a conjectural dimension to the buildings. Nowadays, many pavilions of the 1960’s have been demolished, while others have been changed to increase their indoor space or semi-outdoor spaces. Aboveground tunnels have also been built, which unfortunately do not blend in with the overall architectural character of the TIF. Apart from the pavilions, the site has other important buildings such as the Palais des Sports and the OTE Tower. Finally, the north gate is made from metal, in a Π shape and is 30-metres wide, 12-metres high and houses cashier’s desks. Recently, a renovation study has been published, which fundamentally changes the architecture of the TIF.

What I can't see

The fair was first envisioned by MP Nikolaos Germanos (1925). In the early years of its operation, it was located at the Pedion tou Areos (i.e. the current Anthokomikis Park) and looked like a bazaar. To the north of its current position, there were two pavilions of industrial production, which were gradually replaced by contemporary ones. TIF’s area has been developed to its current form through sequential extensions, in order to meet the growing needs of the exhibitions. The Thessaloniki International Fair is held every September and international business and trade organizations are involved. Moreover, it is an official advisor to the government in exhibition policy issues inside and outside Greece. Throughout the year, exhibitions and cultural events, such as the Floral Exhibition, the International Book Fair and others, take place within the TIF site. Visitors can enjoy a coffee at TIF’s spaces, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and the OTE Tower.

Info

• Postal Code : 54636
• Phone: +30 2310 291548, 2310 291257
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Website: http://www.helexpo.gr/

Bibliography