Monument of Ioannis Papafis

The bust of Ioannis Papafis is located in Tsirogiannis Park, across from the White Tower in Thessaloniki. It is a marble monument created by sculptor Thanasis Apartis and dates back to 1952. The monument was erected with the support of graduates of the Papafio Orphanage, which Papafis founded, and with the contribution of the Municipality of Thessaloniki, as a gesture of gratitude to the city's great benefactor.

The monument consists of a bust of Ioannis Papafis, placed on a marble pedestal where his name and the dates of his birth and death (1792-1886) are engraved. Behind the bust, a large marble plaque depicts young boys holding various tools, representing the trades and skills taught at the Papafio Orphanage. These children symbolize those whom Ioannis Papafis helped to educate and provided with the means for an honest life.

At the top of the marble plaque behind the bust is the inscription: "Born in Thessaloniki, Died in Malta." At the top and bottom of the plaque, where the figures of the young boys are depicted, there are also engraved words from Papafis' will, expressing his desire to offer the orphans of Thessaloniki an opportunity for a better life.

This monument serves as an important landmark in the city, reminding us of Ioannis Papafis' significant contribution to the society of Thessaloniki and his enduring role as a protector of the disadvantaged and a benefactor of the city.