The town hall of Karlovasi accommodates a painting gallery of historic figure portraits related to the Constitution of Samos. The older establishments are among the many reminders of golden eras, the detailed homes with characteristic ceramic roof-tops. The town squares & public sites are complimented by commemorative statues of courageous liberators.

The local lifestyles of the Samian people up to about the World War 2 period is displayed at the Demetriou Foundation Folklore museum. The foundation' s library has an abundant selection of publications. Books of local literature, historic and environmental interest are available for purchase.

The folklore museum of Karlovasi opened in 1994. There is clothing, furniture, fixtures, household utilities, literature and documents dating back to the turn of the century, all donated by members of the local and rural communities. A guide is available to acquaint visitors with the history of the town and inform them about the traditions. The town's wine factory is also worth visiting.

Tram of Karlovasi

By the end of the 19th century up until the post World War 2 era, the town of Karlovasi was a busling industrial and commercial centre. In 1896, construction started on the tram, a horse-drawn rail car built to transport heavy loads and supplies to and from the tanneries.

Passengers also used the tram to get around town and to the port. The construction of the tram took 9 years to complete. It started operating in 1905 and the last horn sounded was 1939.

Historic Tanneries of Karlovasi

The largest two-story tanneries were constructed at the start of the 20 th century in the Riva area of Karlovasi. A true architectural revelation. The entire manufacturing process of leather was performed within these walls.

The initial processing required a large supply of water and thus the work was conducted on the lower level of the tannery. The upper level was reserved for the latter stages of processing and packaging.

Other large industries included olive mills, oil products, liquor & wine distilleries, tobacco products & cigarettes. Shipbuilding dates back to antiquity...until 1946 boats were hand crafted. There are still some shipbuilders using original techniques in Samos. The shipyards in the Karlovasi harbour are still active and worth visiting.