Sintrivani Square of Thessaloniki

The Sintrivani Square, at the intersection of the present-day streets of Egnatia and National Defense, is closely associated with the activities of the Ottoman governor of Thessaloniki, Sabri Pasha, and the process of modernizing the city during this period. The grand avenue of Hamidye, which was part of Ottoman Thessaloniki, now Ethnikis Aminis Street, ended at the famous fountain, which was a gift from Sultan Abdul Hamid. Its construction, made of white marble, took place at the end of the 19th century (1889) and was a combination of Ottoman and Western elements. The upper part is characterized by a classical Western European design, while the obelisk suggests Egyptian influences. Water flows through lion-headed spouts, a feature found in the local folk architecture. The new square created around the fountain was named Taksim Square, after the one in Istanbul. In addition to its decorative role, the fountain also had a practical purpose, as it was intended to provide water for passersby. In 1977, the fountain was restored with many additions to the original material, and its repositioning took place on July 20 of the same year at a location near its original site. Pictured: Electric tram in Sintrivani Square of Thessaloniki in the early 20th century. ©Municipal Photography Museum of Kalamaria ‘Christos Kalemkeris'.