[ΘΕΣΣΑΛΟΝΙΚΗ] TAFRALI Oreste, “Topographie de Thessalonique… Preface de Ch. Diehl”, Paris, Librairie Paul Geuthner, 1913.

First and only edition. 4to, pp.220 , [2] + 2 folding plans and 36 sheets containing 32 plates with fine early photographs of the city and the famous two plans of the city. Original publisher’s paper boards. First ~10 sheets loose, spine worn.

Oreste Tafrali (1876-1937), student of Charles Diehl, attempted the first comprehensive study of Thessaloniki’s monuments and history. This is the first ever topographical study of the city, providing unique information for Thessaloniki, identifying the main buildings and historical monuments and attempting to reconstruct it’s ancient and medieval topography. The study was conducted just after the town was officially annexed to Greece in 1912 and few years before the massive destruction caused by the 1917 “Great Fire”. It contains precious photos of Thessaloniki main monuments, including unique photos of the mosaics of St. Demetrious (Άγιος Δημήτριος) destroyed by the 1917 fire. Preface of his professor, Charles Diehl .

A unique account for Thessaloniki, still a basic reference for city’s history. Very Rare.