Restoration and New Lighting of Giorgos Zongolopoulos’ “Umbrellas” Sculpture
The iconic “Umbrellas” sculpture by Giorgos Zongolopoulos on Thessaloniki’s waterfront has been fully restored and equipped with a new modern lighting system, as part of a major initiative to preserve and highlight one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
The restoration works were carried out by the Giorgos Zongolopoulos Foundation and included reinforcement and repair of the metal structure, maintenance of the stainless-steel elements, and installation of new RGBW LED lighting. The project was implemented through a donation by the Federation of Industries of Greece (SVE) and its member companies, making a significant contribution to the preservation of Thessaloniki’s cultural identity and the enhancement of its public waterfront space.
The donating companies included ALUMIL, ELVIAL S.A., ISOMAT S.A., MEVGAL S.A., STAVROS NENDOS S.A. – SELECT, EFTHYMIADIS AGROTECHNOLOGIES, and PORTO PALACE HOTEL.
Donation of 200 Benches to Enhance Public Spaces
The Municipality of Thessaloniki received 200 new benches through a donation by DIAMANTIS MASOUTIS S.A., strengthening urban equipment across squares, parks, and public spaces throughout the city.
A number of the benches have already been installed near the Thessaloniki Concert Hall, while the remaining ones will be gradually placed in selected locations across the city, aiming to improve the functionality and aesthetics of public space, as well as the daily experience of residents.
This donation forms part of the Municipality’s broader effort to continuously enhance infrastructure and improve quality of life in Thessaloniki’s neighborhoods.
Redevelopment of the Japanese Water Garden on Thessaloniki’s Waterfront
The redeveloped Japanese Water Garden on Thessaloniki’s New Waterfront was delivered in full operation by the Municipality of Thessaloniki, thanks to a donation from JTI. The garden represents a distinctive example of Japanese aesthetics and philosophy, harmoniously integrated into the Mediterranean landscape and adapted to the city’s unique characteristics.
The redevelopment focused on enhancing the garden’s aesthetic and ecological value through new plantings of water-loving species, the reconfiguration of planting beds, and improvements to the surrounding area. At the same time, the Municipality of Thessaloniki carried out maintenance and upgrades to the garden’s mechanical systems. This intervention forms part of the broader strategy to continuously upgrade the New Waterfront and strengthen public green and recreational spaces, contributing to environmental balance and quality of life in the city.
Melinikou Park Upgrade
The Tornivoukas family fully funded the planting of 100 new trees (plane trees, cypresses, and oriental planes), along with a series of technical interventions in the public space of Melinikou Park on Ethnikis Amynis Street. This initiative is part of the broader effort to enhance urban greenery and improve the aesthetics of public spaces, making a positive impact on citizens’ everyday life. The donation stands as a strong example of corporate social responsibility and active contribution toward a more sustainable and people-friendly city.
Installation of Public Water Fountains
Eighteen new water fountains were installed along central streets, the New Waterfront, the White Tower, and City Hall areas in collaboration with EYATH. The goal is to ensure access to clean drinking water for all, improving public space quality and contributing to a more sustainable city.
Volunteer Graffiti Removal
A volunteer-led initiative to clean unauthorized graffiti, keeping our city clean and beautiful.
Restoration and Beautification of the New Waterfront
Thanks to the initiative of the Cultural Society, the New Waterfront has been returned to the public, transformed into a cultural space. This initiative proves that when there is a spirit of contribution and aesthetic vision, we can achieve many small victories for our city.
We invite you, through the “I Participate in My City” program, to support initiatives that improve daily life and make Thessaloniki more sustainable, friendly, functional, and resilient.
