Out of thin air
Female figure of the bourgeoisie of Hermoupolis
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.
People from Chios are cunningly sly. From Andros, they are hardworking and naive, the Peloponnese are dark and doubtful. Kassiotes are honest and straightforward, maintaining, in a way, their local factions."
M. Karagatsis, "the Great Chimera" Page 112.
Important political and manufacturer owners of Hermoupolis of 19th century.
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They created a social life based on displays of wealth, which gives a superficial impression of culture. A luxurious club, well-kept homes, pleasing manners, controlled language... Within this context, the people of Kassos are a comforting discord. The 'old ones' consider them nouveau riche, even though the timelines of culture and prosperity are not far apart... They work hard and conscientiously on their ships and in their offices in Syros, Piraeus, and London, just as their fathers toiled on their small sailing vessels. And they wait patiently for their time, fully confident that it will come someday.
page 113.
Rethymni Mansion - Historical Museum of Hermoupolis
The Rethymni brothers, Nikolaos (left) and Minas (right).
Τhe Historical Museum of Hermoupolis is housed in a neoclassical gem of Hermoupolis, the former residence of the Rethymnis, a building listed as a Monument by the Ministry of Culture.
Built in 1840, in Vaporia district, which is considered the most prestiguous of Hermoupolis, the building
passed through 4 different families. The loggia (terrace) is work by the Italian architect Pietro Sampo, who also designed the Apollon Theatre and the Hellas Club in Syros. The design of Sampo changed drastically the
physiognomy of the building, with the creation of the impressive entrance, leading to the beautiful staircase of the residence.
The last owners of the building, the Rethymni Brothers, Nikolaos and Minas, were a family of descendants from Kassos. They were shipowners and important benefactors of Hermoupolis. Since they didn’t leave any descendants, they offered the building as a bequest to Fifi Andrianopoulou, who passed it on to the Lyceum of Greek Women of Syros
