The port of Patras in the late 19th and early 20th century

The port of Patras flourished primarily due to the raisin trade, as well as its general role in import and export commerce. Ships that docked at the port mainly loaded wheat, olive oil, and currants, transporting them to Trieste and other Italian cities, and from there, via overland routes, to the markets of Northern Europe. The modern period of the port began in 1836 with the first steps toward constructing an artificial harbor, as decided by the city’s Municipal Council. In 1838, the first part of a wooden pier was built, 35 meters in length, and two years later it was extended by another 20 meters, though still insufficient for the needs of navigation. Despite early recommendations for a lighthouse, it wasn’t built until 17 years later, in 1858. Harbor construction continued through the 1850s, but remained ineffective due to the shallow sea depth, which prevented large sailing ships from approaching. In 1880, the construction of an artificial port began under the direction of French engineers, and it was completed in 1889. Until 1927, the port lacked proper quays and faced many operational issues. In 1930, a construction company was commissioned to carry out port works, and throughout the 1930s, the entire coastal zone was transformed into a vast, bustling construction site. Pictured: View of the Port of Patras in 1900. ©Municipal Photography Museum of Kalamaria ‘Christos Kalemkeris’.