The quarter of Manavika is one of the oldest and most beautiful areas of the town of Trikala.

It is situated next to the area of Varoussi and both areas are characterized by the interesting buildings that all follow the same architectural style, built with bricks and boasting high ceilings. In the past and especially during the 20s, the quarter of "Manavika" was considered rather disreputable since this is where one would come to find some “cheap, paid love”.

Later on, the fame of this neighborhood was altered immensely by the various openings of tavernas and cafes which started to attract the locals and tourists alike, thus, transforming the area to one of the most cheerful hot spots of the town.

This transformation of the "essence" of the neighborhood was further aided by the fact that it was chosen to host the large vegetable market of Trikala. This is where the housewives would come to get their supply of fresh ingredients for their cooking, therefore the alleys cleared of their previous disreputable frequenters.  

Nowadays, this is where we head to in order to see the town’s most renovated area. The quarter now presents numerous choices to the visitor - as far as traditional tavernas, restaurant and bars is concerned -. All of them still maintain their initial, traditional façade but at the same time they promote a more hip and trendy approach attracting repeating customers and visitors throughout the day…and night.
While you enjoy your stroll at the quarter of Manavika, search for the incredible, massive wall painting created in 2006 and spreading over a wall of 150 sq. meters.

This artistic project is quite significant and it is notable to mention that it is the only one of its kind in Greece. It was carried out by the firm SACVL, grouping together the painters of Cite de la Creation and the light specialists of the firm ΗΤΕ. Needless to say that all the above participants are renowned internationally and they have presented other projects of this type as part of their “Architectural Illusions” series. Comparable projects have been installed in Lyon, at the Sofitel Hotel of Cairo, a large project in Russia, at the Castillo de Moro in Kuba, at the Ermitage Museum in Saint Petersbourg and in other significant towns of the world.

The wall painting depicts snapshots of everyday life, in a very realistic way. Snapshots seen from the locals from their balcony, the taverna and its musical programme, the women shopping at the public grocery market, the children playing carefree at the alleys of the neighborhood and many other imges. 
The whole neighborhood acquires a touch of artistic glamour through this fantastic piece of art on a wall and the appropriate lighting adds ounces to its artistic capacity. It is definitely worthy to see from close up. 

From: Eleni Nikoloulia

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