The buildings of Thessaloniki: The National Bank of Greece building

The buildings of Thessaloniki:
The National Bank of Greece building

In Eleftherias Square, next to the lively Ladadika district, stands the National Bank of Greece building, one of Θεσσαλονίκη’s most distinctive architectural works. It houses both a branch of the National Bank of Greece and the Thessaloniki office of the Bank of Greece, the country’s central bank.

Source (in Greek) : “The building of the National Bank of Greece at Eleftherias (Freedom) Square in Thessaloniki. The chronicle of its construction (1928–1933) and the history of the site. NBG – Cultural Center of Northern Greece.”

A New Beginning After the Great Fire

The Fire of 1917 reshaped Θεσσαλονίκη, destroying much of the city, including the original bank building. With the growing need for modern infrastructure, the National Bank of Greece planned a new headquarters. After a lengthy approval process, architects Aristomenes Valvis and Nikolaos Mitsakis designed a new building, completed in 1933. Originally intended for the National Bank of Greece, part of the space was soon allocated to the Bank of Greece.

The building's characteristic Corintian columns.

An Interior Blending Different Styles

Θεσσαλονίκη’s architecture is a mix of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Modern influences, with neoclassical buildings being a rare sight. This one stands out with its reinforced concrete structure, Corinthian columns on most sides, and Doric columns framing the Bank of Greece entrance. A grand pediment and a clock add elegance to the façade. Built with innovative foundations for its time, the materials came from various sources, including marble from the island of Tinos, giving the building its refined character.

The building’s interior moves beyond strict neoclassicism, incorporating elements of Byzantine, Italian Renaissance, and Art Deco influences. It consists of an underground level, ground floor, mezzanine, and three upper floors. A striking central dome allows natural light to filter in, highlighting the intricate details of the space.

The entrance of the Central bank of Greece from Tsimiski street.

A Walk Through History

The surrounding streets reflect Thessaloniki’s commercial past, lined with impressive bank buildings from the early 20th century. Today, the streets around the bank are alive with small boutiques, cozy cafés, and locals going about their day. Yet, the grand facades of old bank buildings still whisper stories of Thessaloniki’s past.

The entrance of the Central bank of Greece from Tsimiski street.

Walking through this part of Θεσσαλονίκη offers a glimpse into its layered history. Among the neoclassical facades and contemporary city life, the National Bank of Greece building stands as a reminder of an era when architecture was a statement of progress and ambition.