The rise of Hermoupolis

M. Karagatsis: "The other half—the bourgeoisie set—are hewn of a more complex material and thus quite difficult to classify as a social whole. The siren call of big business lures Greeks of all stripes to Hermoupolis. Although unlike in provenance and social standing, they are united by a common goal-profit... "

Page 86. The Great Chimera

The first chapter of the story presents traces of the rapid growth of the city of Hermoupolis. Considered a refuge city that was created in just a few years by people who fled their islands to find the island of Syros as a safe heaven, protected by the catholic regime.

The first visit is to an old neoclassical mansion that vividly depicts the growth and overall wealth of 19th-century Hermoupolis.

RETHYMNI MANSION

HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF HERMOUPOLIS

The building, which is a recognised monument by the Ministry of Culture, was fully restored with care after a 20-year effort and today hosts the Historical Museum of Hermoupolis.

Life in public space

M. Karagatsis: "The tranquility of provincial life provide simple entertainments: they visited each other's homes; played pinoclhle and bridge, a little poker; exchanged a good measure of gossip; partook in the occasional 'family' dance...followed by private receptions raging with hollow display."

Page 88. The Great Chimera

APOLLON THEATER

The second chapter is centered around social life and entertainment in the city of Hermoupolis.

The building presented is considered the core of the cultural events of 19th-century on the island. It has withstood many challenges but with social outcry and support, it managed to still remain as one of the most essential structures of the urban fabric of Hermoupolis.

M. Karagatsis: "No longer able to entertain in the way she once had, she preserves only the most essential of her old connections. At first, her friends kept inviting her to their accustomed gatherings, but had she accepted, she would have had to reciprocate and that is impossible."

Page 213. The Great Chimera

Hermoupolis of the 20th-centrury

Following the rapid growth of Hermoupolis, the city gradually faced the consequences of the overall neglect of the provinces, which had an impact on the commercial and industrial sectors of the city.

One cannot separate the Maritime trade from the physiognomy of the island, but its downfall resembles nothing of its great past, as the former primary commercial unity of Greece.

"THE RED HOUSE"

Chapter III takes us to an abandoned residence on the outskirts of Hermoupolis. The so-called "Red House" hosts one of the infamous myths of the city of Hermoupolis, presumably identified as the former residence where Marinas' family lived in the book by M. Karagatsis, the "Great Chimera".