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The expansion of Volos was fast. The artisan tradition cultivated within the villages of mountain Pelion, concurrently with the riches arriving, via the port, to the city from all around the world, improved commerce and industry. This attracted investors from other areas. The brief occupation of Volos, during the Greek-Turkish conflict of 1896-97 did not affect the new developments.

The railway, which connects Volos to Larissa and Kalabaka, was completed by 1886. In 1895, a new railway line was made, linking Volos to Lechonia and eventually Milies (1904). In 1892 construction works started around the port, which continued past WW1, as trade grew. By 1919, the port of Volos was the biggest in the tobacco export business, covering 30% of the whole of Greece.

Fulfilling all the necessary requirements relating to investor capitals, manpower, expansive local market force, raw materials, Volos turn out to be a robust industrial city. The most lucrative businesses included metallurgy, tobacco, textiles, tannery and food supplies.

Consequently, economic growth went hand in hand with cultural advancement. In 1894 the Municipal Theatre was founded, in 1896 the Gymnastic Club, and in 1908 the Municipal Girls' School was established under the great pedagogue A. Delmouzos. Moreover, the first workers guild in Greece was inaugurated.

WW2 caused a temporary halt in all advancements. However, after the war, Volos, Nea Ionia and the neighbouring districts developed a significant urban plan, but the disastrous earthquakes of 1955 permanently affected its initial aesthetic image.

The contemporary city of Volos, having learned from the lessons of the past, and utilising its full potential, has grown to be a very important commercial centre. The port of Volos is currently holding the third position in Greece, in terms of the exchange of people and goods. Tourism, trade, industry and the high standards of local services are currently the focus of its financial and social growth. At the same time, the operation of an innovative and modern university, in conjunction with a major artistic infrastructure, and a vibrant cultural scene, offers the public the opportunity to choose from a variety of edifying events, including theatrical productions, concerts and art exhibitions. Thus Volos is gradually turning into a business and cultural metropolis on the Greek, as well as on the European map