100 χρόνια Λάππειο Γυμνάσιο Νάουσας. Η ΤΝ ζωντανεύει τους πρωταγωνιστές της ίδρυσης του σχολείου.

Summary

This transcript narrates the legacy of the Lappas family, founders of the first gymnasium in Naoussa, Greece. The story highlights the family's roots in the mountainous region of Brazil, their prosperous commercial ventures in Egypt, and their contributions to education. After the tragic loss of two brothers, they funded the construction of a new school building in Naoussa. The transcript also showcases the architectural vision of Konstantinos Lappas and the design by renowned architect Ofn Peionidis, leading to the creation of a distinctive school building blending neoclassical and local styles.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Lappas family, originally from Brazil, moved to Naousa in the 1830s and became influential in Egypt through their commercial businesses.
• 😀 Georgios Lappas and his siblings continued their father's successful commercial ventures, providing goods to Egyptian palaces, the British consulate, and steamship companies.
• 😀 Following the tragic deaths of two brothers, the Lappas family decided to honor their memory by funding the construction of a new school in Naousa.
• 😀 The establishment of the 1st Gymnasium of Naousa was supported by Naousa expatriates in Egypt and prominent citizens of the town.
• 😀 A significant contributor to the construction project was the scholar and teacher Stavros Chonos, who had previously taught in Cairo and offered part of his residence for early schooling in Naousa.
• 😀 The initial architectural plan for the school was more elaborate, including a two-story building with various facilities, but financial constraints led to a scaled-back design.
• 😀 The building was designed by renowned Thessaloniki architect Othon Peonides, known for his neoclassical style and contribution to local architecture.
• 😀 The school was constructed on the site of the old cemetery of Panagia, which had fallen into disuse, and was inaugurated in 1922 but began operations in 1923.
• 😀 The architectural design of the building features neoclassical elements, with a symmetrical façade, curved arches, and a classic entrance with columns.
• 😀 The school building became one of the most iconic designs by Othon Peonides, admired for its elegance and contribution to the architectural landscape of Naousa and Thessaloniki.

Q & A

Who is Giorgios Lappas and what is his connection to the establishment of the 1st Gymnasium of Naousa?

Giorgios Lappas is one of the two founders of the 1st Gymnasium of Naousa. He comes from a large family originating from the mountainous area of Brazil, which later settled in Naousa in the 1830s. His family's involvement in business led to significant contributions to the educational development in Naousa.

What role did Giorgios Lappas's family play in the commercial sector in Egypt?

Giorgios Lappas's family played a significant role as general suppliers to major Egyptian shipping companies, the Egyptian royal palace, and British consulate operations. They expanded their business to other African countries, continuing the commercial legacy left by their father who had migrated to Egypt.

What was the significance of the donation made by the Lappas family to Naousa in 1912?

In 1912, the Lappas family donated a substantial sum to Naousa's community in the form of bonds, which were used for the city's schools. This donation was made in memory of their late brother, Aristides, just before his wedding.

What tragic event occurred in 1919, and how did the Lappas family respond to it?

In 1919, the Lappas family experienced the death of another brother, Grigoris, who died from Spanish flu. In response, the family decided to build a new educational building in Naousa in memory of their brothers, funding it entirely themselves.

Who played a crucial role in the establishment of the new school in Naousa, and what was their contribution?

The influential teacher of Naousa, Stavros Chonos, played a critical role in the establishment of the new school. Having known the Lappas family from their time in Cairo, he offered part of his home as a temporary teaching space and later helped convince the family to fund the construction of a new school building.

What was the initial plan for the new school building in Naousa, and how did it change?

The original plan for the new school was a two-story stone building with two entrances, four classrooms per floor, a large basement for a chemistry lab, and a residence for the janitor. However, due to budget overruns and the economic difficulties caused by the Greco-Turkish War, the final building was much smaller than initially planned.

When was the new school inaugurated, and when did it begin its operations?

The new school building was inaugurated on December 4, 1922, and it started functioning as a school in the 1923-1924 academic year.

Can you provide details about the architect of the school building in Naousa?

The school building in Naousa was designed by the well-known Thessaloniki architect, Ofni Peonidis. He was responsible for creating a building that was both functional and architecturally appealing, with a clear representation of classical design elements.

How did the Lappas family’s legacy extend to other regions, and what notable buildings did they design?

Aside from the school in Naousa, Ofni Peonidis, the architect involved with the Lappas family, also designed many other significant buildings in Thessaloniki and the surrounding regions. These include the Papafeio Orphanage, the Agios Dimitrios Hospital, and the Byzantine-style Church of Agios Antonios in Veria.

How did the Lappas family contribute to the preservation of Greek identity during the Macedonian struggle?

During the Macedonian Struggle, Ofni Peonidis, who was actively involved with the Lappas family, contributed by providing sketches of the Bulgarian houses he observed while hunting, which were later used by Greek resistance forces to strategically target Bulgarian expansion efforts. His involvement helped in maintaining the Greek presence in the region.