The professional activities of residents
Trade
Trade had always been an activity that brought economic prosperity. Oil, almonds and carrob were the main products exported from the region.
Printing
The art of printing is one of the first to appear in Neapoli. Magazines and newspapers of local interest, as well as books by local authors, were published.
Photography
In the early 20th century, photographers mostly travelled. They set up their camera in squares and churches and captured life from under the black cloth. The entire photographic apparatus stood on wooden tripods, and the process of photographing creates a fantastic image today, with the photographer dipping his head under the black cloth and emerging with photograph in hand.
Café (‘Kafeneio’) – Barber Shop
The social life of locals, mostly the men, was limited to the ‘Kafeneio’ or café. There, among the aromas of coffee and raki, people would converse, joke or make decisions after their daily toil. The coffee maker behind his counter, the “teziaki”, was an important source of information about current events. The barber shop was often not in a separate location, but was cohoused with the café. The men’s appearance and a well-groomed head were a priority.
Saddlery
Donkeys were the only means of transport and their equipment was a key element in the transportation of goods and people. This led to the establishing of saddleries.
Carpentry
As a natural material, wood had always been the basic material for the construction of doors, windows, cabinets, everyday tools both for the home and for professional use. In the exhibition, there is a carpenter’s bench with the tools necessary for woodworking.
Tailoring / Dressmaking
Seamstresses and tailors were a lucrative profession. All clothes – men’s, women’s, children’s, professional – were handmade. A large number of men and women worked as tailors and dressmakers since a well-kept and groomed appearance was a characteristic feature of Neapolitan society.
Shoemaking
Handmade leather shoes for everyone.
