The rise of Hermoupolis

M. Karagatsis: "The other aspect of society—the bourgeoisie—is more complex in mentality, quite unclassifiable within the social whole. Large-scale trade brought to Hermoupolis a lively mix of Greeks, different in origin and social development, but united by the common purpose of profit... "

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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: "Their entertainment was simple, bourgeois, filled with the tranquillity of provincial life. Visits to various homes, a bit of poker, mostly pinnacle and bridge, plenty of gossip, rarely a 'family' dance. This is how Marina's first winter in Syros passed by, with the sole exception of the Carnival, which demanded more active socialising. The club took the lead, with its official and luxurious spaces. However, there were also private receptions, where the most vain displays flourished."

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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: "She could no longer formally receive guests at her home, as she used to. She kept only the most necessary of her old social connections. At first, all her acquaintances invited her to the usual gatherings. If she had accepted to go, she would have had to reciprocate. So, she withdrew from social life."

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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".