Ernest Hébrard’s urban reconstruction plan after the Great Fire of 1917 included the conception and design for a central food market for Thessaloniki, the Modiano Market. Its architect was Eli Modiano, one of the most important architects and engineers involved in Hébrard’s project, having studied at the Parisian École Centrale des Arts et Manufactures. Construction work began in 1922 and was completed 3 years later. The covered market consists of three axes that serve as internal passages and has 144 food stores. Modiano’s father, Jacob, was a banker and prominent member of the city’s vibrant Jewish community. After Eli returned to Thessaloniki, he undertook several projects including the Thessaloniki Customs House and the Alessandro Manzoni School. In 1922, he was also awarded the title of the knight by the king of Italy, Victor Emmanuel.