Open the left menu of Thessaloniki. Holidays in Thessaloniki (Greece): photos and reviews Where is the city of Thessaloniki Greece

Thessaloniki is more of a commercial and industrial center than a resort oasis, but the city has something to keep its guests busy for at least two or three days. Numerous churches collectively give a picture of the development of Orthodox architecture over the centuries, but there is also an opportunity to look through the years and centuries into the everyday life of Ottoman life - the Upper City surrounded by powerful ramparts, and in the grid of modern streets lined along the line, there are isolated inclusions of Ottoman buildings, many of which, including those that are rightfully considered monuments of Islamic architecture, miraculously survived the fire of 1917.

The latest Greek architecture is represented by examples of Art Deco, accumulated in the glorious days that the city knew in the 20th century, during the first international trade fair in 1926. Much was restored by 1997, when it was the turn of Thessaloniki to be the Capital of Culture, although many ancient buildings from the Byzantine and other eras, which suffered from the devastating earthquake of 1978, are still painstakingly restored.

In the capital of Macedonia, there are many museums that reveal, often excellently, one side or the other of the wealth inherited by the city: Byzantine culture, the history of Thessaloniki Jewry, folk life, musical instruments, Ataturk (he was born here), right up to contemporary art and photography. But for most of the guests of the city, the most important thing is the Archaeological Museum, and it remains outstanding, although it has become somewhat poorer, since many of the exhibits associated with the tomb of Philip II of Macedon were returned to Vergina, closer to the royal burials.

A Brief History of Thessaloniki

When the king of Macedonia Cassander in 315 BC founded this city on the site of the ancient Greek village of Therma, he gave it the name of his wife, half-sister of Alexander the Great, and she was named Thessalonica in honor of the victory (nike) of the Macedonians over the Thessalians (Thessaly Nike), won under the leadership of Philip II, the father of the newborn. Soon the new city turned into a regional cultural and trade center and even minted its own coin. Macedonia became a Roman province in 146 BC, while Thessaloniki, thanks to its advantageous strategic position both on the land and sea sides, became the capital.

The wealth and importance of the city increased even more with the construction of the Via Egnatia, the great road that connected Rome (through Brindisi - the ancient Brundisium) with Byzantium and the east of the empire. The road contributed to the growth of many other cities that stood along it, including the Macedonian Amphipolis, Philippi and Naples (present). Christianity was inculcated in Thessaloniki with difficulty: the Apostle Paul visited the city twice, and the first time he was expelled from the city - his preaching caused outrage in the local Jewish community. The second time, in 56 AD, he stayed long enough to found the Thessalonian church, to whose adherents he later wrote two letters (Epistles to the Thessalonians, or, in Church Slavonic, to the Solunians).

It took, however, three more centuries for the new faith to take root. When Diocletian established the tetrarchy (reign of four emperors) in the Empire, thereby initiating the schism between Rome and Byzantium, Galerius became the second eastern emperor, to whose reign almost all the late Roman monuments that survived in Thessaloniki, including the Rotunda and the Arch, bearing name Galerius. He also tortured Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki, who became the patron saint of Thessaloniki. The first Christian emperor from the Thessalonians was Theodosius (reigned 379-395), who, after his conversion, issued the Edict of Thessalonica - a decree that officially ended paganism.

During the reign of Justinian (527-565), Thessaloniki became the second (current) city of the Byzantine Empire after Constantinople and remained so, despite the constant pressure of the Goths and Slavs, until the Saracens plundered it in 904. Today there are more Byzantine monuments in the city than Roman ones, and they are undoubtedly better. The series of historical storms was continued by the Sicilian Normans (1185) and the Fourth Crusade (1204), after which the city became the capital of the Latin Kingdom of Thessaloniki. But the Byzantine Nicene Empire in 1246 took the city away from the invaders, and the "golden age" of Thessaloniki culture followed, accompanied by theological strife and political revolts and lasted two centuries, until the Turkish conquest of the city and its incorporation into the Ottoman Empire in 1430.

Thessaloniki was the first city of the Ottoman Empire in the Balkans, while it remained a quiet backwater. The population has changed in the course of changes in the region, but the Greeks of the Orthodox faith have always made up a noticeable minority. In addition to the Ottoman Muslims who settled here in 1430, a generation before the conquest of Constantinople, and believed that they lived in the city of "Selanik", there were Slavs (who knew and still know that this is "Solun"), Albanians, Armenians and, after their expulsion from the Iberian Peninsula in 1492, the Jews — Thessaloniki's Jewish community was at that time the largest in Europe.

The current appearance of the city and its other features are largely due to the terrible fire of 1917, which destroyed most of the old houses that were stuck to each other in the labyrinths of Ottoman streets, including the entire Jewish quarter with 32 synagogues, so that 70 thousand people lost their homes - about half of the city's population ... Thessaloniki rebuilt itself, acquiring its own version of Art Deco, and the French architect and archaeologist Ernest Ebrard looked after the 8-year-long work on the construction of the city "in a box". Wide central avenues were laid, parallel to the embankment, and the intersections were in the shade of densely planted trees.

Ebrar also tried to prohibit the construction of too tall buildings, but this restriction did not last long, and twenty years later it was safely forgotten. The city's well-being is evidenced by the elegance of the townspeople and the prosperity of the tailors, but the tidal wave of prosperity that Thessaloniki has enjoyed since the 1990s, through both economic resilience and perhaps thanks to EU subsidies, has spawned a new and extremely fluid class with dramatically different lifestyles. from the inertia of the unlucky inhabitants of houses, obediently floating on the sea of \u200b\u200blife, huddling towards the port.

There, the Pontic Greeks trade third-rate goods in street bazaars, and unemployed Albanians and refugees from Eastern Europe vegetate on pennies earned from smuggled cigarettes or wiping the windshields of other people's limousines. Since about 2000, they have been joined by Africans selling counterfeit CDs. Both visitors and indigenous townspeople are annoyed by all sorts of inconveniences, the same as in other large cities of the Mediterranean: the discharge of industrial and domestic waste into the bay (something slightly improved in the 21st century), traffic jams on the main avenues, although it seems to exist a convenient one-way system with a ring road, and so on.

Arrival and public transport in Thessaloniki

It is nowhere easier to get to Thessaloniki: the railway station is on the western side of the city, and many bus routes approach it, there is a good taxi company nearby, the center and the harbor are within easy reach. Long-distance buses arrive at the main bus station (it is called, as you might guess, "Macedonia"). The station is located a little to the west of the center, at 194 Yiannitson, from where buses No. 1 and 78 will take you to the railway station, and No. 78 will take you to the airport, while No. 31 goes along Egnatia.

Food in Thessaloniki

At first glance, it seems that the center of Thessaloniki is occupied by "fast food", but "fast food" only prevents you from noticing a huge number of very interesting and different taverns throughout the city. The list for the center includes establishments within walking distance of Aristotelous Platia. When listing restaurants in other areas, information on how to get to them is indicated. Many places in Thessaloniki are closed from mid-July to mid-August - at this time the townspeople go on vacation - a little earlier than the Athenians. According to custom, local uzeri treat guests with sweets at the expense of the establishment - most often it is halvas (semolina halva) or watermelon.

• In the city center (between the sea and the Basilica of Saint Demetrius)

The central urban massif - or, most likely, stay within it - is so rich in restaurants and bars that you don't have to spend money on taxis and time on long trips. Especially rich in such establishments are the outskirts of the bazaar and the fashionable quarter of Ladadika - most often these are real uzeri, in which taverns are interspersed.

1). Ta Adhelfia tis Pixarias “The best institution in this area of \u200b\u200barchaeological value. The menu includes such tasty things as tsigerosarmas (lamb liver with cabbage) and saganaki mussels (mussels with cheese), and the tablecloths on the tables are real, however, the service is often more like slovenliness, and the portions are sometimes small. And there are a lot of people, so come early. Location: Platiya Navarin 7;

2). Aristotelous establishment - Politely moving away from the Aristotelous odos into the courtyard (the entrance is on the side of the Blow Up Records store), this stylish middle-class uzeri attracts not only the refined taste of the arcades inside and the pretty courtyard, but also very tasty mezedes. You can order excellent tsipouro for yourself. Closed mid-July to mid-August and Sunday afternoon. Location: Aristotelus 8;

3). Ta Bakaliarakia tou Aristou establishment “Inexpensive, large portions of cod and potatoes served on oilcloth tables make this pedestrian-only establishment worthy of a mention. Location: Kunduriotu 6;

4). Institution ly Gonia tou Merakli - Inexpensive seafood and draft wine - in a word, you will find the best in a number of similar establishments, which have settled on peculiar streets between the Atonos and Aristotelous Platia. Location: Avierinou, a street that leaves the plateau of Atonos;

5). Institution Kamares - Great, but not expensive, seafood, salads and grilled meats washed down in this place open all year round with wine from the island of Limnos. In the summer, the tables are taken outside, next to the park. Location: Platia Ayiu-Yeoriu 11, near the Rotunda;

6). Koumbarakia establishment - Placed behind the Byzantine Church of the Transfiguration, the summer tables of this old and inexpensive Uzeri are bursting with the weight of Macedonian-style grilled dishes, as well as seafood and salads, including tursi (pickled vegetables). Closed on Sundays and mid-summer. Location: Egnatia 140;

7). Restaurant Krasodhikio - Another great uzeri serving large portions of meat and seafood and mezedes. In summer, on the pavement, and in winter in a cozy room, where it is always cool. Location: Philip 17 and Venizel;

8). Louloudhadhika Tavern - Expensive (upscale) tavern: yellow walls and exquisite tablecloths, on which exceptionally good food is displayed, in particular, fresh fish, and the retsina from the barrel is incredibly refreshing. Try to take a table outside, in front of the old Jewish baths. Location: Komninon 20;

9). Loutros establishment - Wonderful seafood, simple oretica snacks and excellent retsina at reasonable prices, next to Bezesteni. Closed from mid July to mid August. Location: Kundura 5;

10). Molyvos establishment - Cretan rusks with cheese, salads, local dishes in a charmingly rugged, "rural" tavern setting - uzeri with tables on a peaceful street - and with Aladin's cave, which turns out to be a shop selling "off-the-shelf" ouzo and "off-the-shelf" olive oils. Location: Capodistriou 1;

11). Myrovolos Smyrni restaurant - The friendly Uzeri, also known as Tou Thanassi, is always crowded - the establishment is considered the best of all those that settled in the neighborhood. Commonly served are cuttlefish and squid stuffed with cheese, Smyrna meatballs, stuffed potatoes and grilled fish fry. It works all year round, in the summer they turn on the air conditioner, there seem to be a lot of seats, but it is recommended to book a table in advance. Location: in the arcade of the Modiano market, at Comninon 32;

12). Nea llissia restaurant - Opposite is the Averof hotel, and there are many visitors among the restaurant's customers, fortunately that the working day at the institution is long, from 8:30 am to 2 am, and the menu includes highly appreciated by visitors of Mayireft. Location: Sofu 17;

13). Negroponte establishment “Of the few 'real' taverns in this ennobled, urban area, you'll see bunches of garlic, old-fashioned seating and barrels of wine. The food is sumptuous, in the usual tavern spirit, and the prices, especially compared to those of competing neighbors, are low. Location: at the Polytechniu, Ladadika;

14). Tre Marie establishment “If you want the emblem of gluttony in Thessaloniki, there is hardly a better place to be than this expensive trattoria with an intricate menu with items like zucchini buds stuffed with mint cheese in truffle honey sauce. Waiters in white aprons scurry among the opulent furnishings: marble and dark wood under the stained-glass ceiling, from which glittering chandeliers hang. In summer, a small terrace opens up outside. Location: Yermanu 13;

15). Tsarouhas establishment - Reputed to be the best and, certainly, the most famous in the city (and, accordingly, of the most expensive) patsadzidika - this is the name of the cuisine that makes soups from tripe and legs. Lots of other mayireft and Anatolian puddings including baked pudding, kazandibi. Closed from mid-July to mid-August, open 24/7 at other times. Location: Olimbu 78, near the plateau Dikastirion;

16). Vrotos establishment - Probably not to find in this urban area more inventive and therefore, at the present time, one of the most beloved by the people (despite the high prices) uzeri. Here they are able to please, it seems, all tastes: sophisticated vegetable dishes with cheese, various meat and fish cuisine, but although the tables are slowly creeping out of the narrow fence onto the pavement, there is still not enough space, and this is another reason to book a table in advance. Open daily for lunch and dinner, except perhaps late July. Location: Metropolitan Yenadiou 6, Platya Atonos;

17). Zythos establishment - From the best hot spots in the Ladadik area. Very decent food at reasonable prices during the day and evening. You can order wines - the choice is rich, or beer - there is both Greek and imported, from barrels and in bottles. On weekends, it is better to book a table in advance. Location: Platiya Katuni 5.

• Ano-Poli (Castra and Eptapirio)

The Upper Town (Ano Poli) has plenty of hot spots, prices are mostly reasonable, and the atmosphere is warm. Do you want to suffer from climbing the mountain? Buses No. 22 and 28 run from Eleftherias Platia. Noisy places with neon signs on both sides of the Chain Tower are quite suitable if you want to sit with a glass of wine on the terrace and admire the views of the city, but do not count on culinary miracles in such places.

1). Hiotis establishment - Immediately after the entrance through the second (eastern) gate of the fortress, near the Chain Tower. Mussels, kebabs and kokoretsi, weather permitting, are served on the terrace, under the ramparts. In summer, only lunch (in the evening), in the rest of the year - lunch and dinner. Location: Graviyas 2;

2). To Makedhoniko establishment - To get into this institution, after passing through the main gate of Portar, take a course to the west and keep to the wall until, after passing through one more gate, you will not find the third gate, or rather the gate. Bus number 28 follows exactly this way. The menu is limited: tis oras (on request), ice cream, salad and retsina, but everything is cheap - the audience is trendy, and the locals come. Location: Sikies County;

3). To Spiti tou Pasa establishment - Already the name (Pasha's House) promises convenience and comfort, and the very appearance of a two-story, stylishly, but not loudly decorated building - too. The promised joys - barrel wine from Limnos, grilled meat and fish, impeccable service. Prices are appropriate. Location: Apostle Paul 35;

4). To Yendi establishment - The menu - like in uzeri, changes from day to day, the portions are impressive, and for food - tsipuro, ouzo or homemade wine. There are tables in the spacious hall or on the terrace opposite the Edi-Küle gate, but sometimes difficulties arise with service - there are a lot of people. Only open in the evenings. Location: Papareska 13, at the very top of Castra, opposite the Yedi-Küle citadel.

Drinks, nightlife and entertainment in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a city where it may easily seem that the local population is busy only with gatherings in cafes and bars, if it breaks away from this business, it is only to move to another hot place, since a pleasant atmosphere and a lot of people await you everywhere. sucking on iced coffee and lighting cigarette after cigarette. In the center, the most fashionable nightlife is concentrated in the Ladadik area, although this jumble of neighborhoods near the harbor still lacks poor, nondescript houses. The pedestrian Katun, Eyiptu, Morikhovu platiya and nearby streets are filled with a dizzying mishmash of cafes, gelateria, countless hordes of uzeri, salsatek, and there are also a few taverns.

The establishments for the most part live with a high turnover, so it makes no sense to single out isolated cases: after walking along the line of colorful establishments, you yourself will be able to find what you need. Two points - Sodade and Banal - are now considered the main unconventional sites of the city. Another promising place of great joy for those who like to have a good drink in a glorious setting is the seaside promenade (leophoros) Nikis, where from time immemorial a citywide exercise volta takes place: walkers walk past an endless string of bars with terraces.

Similar bars can be found on the very fashionable Aristotelous platy and along the Proxenu-Coromila. The trendy designer bars opposite the White Tower are also noteworthy, and the bustling Navarino platya with its adjoining pedestrian streets Iktinu and Zefksidou has establishments that set the tone and raise the wave. With the arrival of spring, it gets warmer, and life is gradually shifting towards the glittering lights and colors of hangar-like establishments that line the coastal road to Kalamaria - but you have to take a taxi there.

• Bars, cafes and clubs in Thessaloniki

1). Aigli Bar - Classic bar-uzeri with Anatolian décor, occupying part of the annex near Aladza Imaret. A small concert hall and a large room with two domes, tables and a bar outside in summer, where a summer cinema is located in the garden. Location: corner of Ayiu Nicolau and Kassandru, behind the Basilica of Saint Demetrius;

2). Amareion Cafe - Cozy uzeri or bar with excellent acoustics and good music on weekends. Location: Apostle Paul;

3). Dodekanese Club - The best of the big clubs for dance, techno and progressive house music. Near the center of Mylos. Location: Yeoriu 21;

4). Dizzi Bar - This lively bar on Ladadika is filled with loud rock sounds. A motorcycle is suspended from sturdy ceiling beams, and strong Guinness pours from a crane. Location: Eyiptu 5;

5). Kissfish Bar - From a bunch of trendy bars on narrow streets near the rising port area, it's definitely worth a look. Location: Averof and Fokeas;

6). Kitchen Bar - A huge port warehouse, turned into a fashionable hot spot, of the most luxurious. If it's chilly outside, head upstairs, and in summer, head to the seaside terrace to enjoy not only a cocktail, but city views as well. Here you can have a hearty meal or run in for breakfast and afternoon tea with cheese pies with coffee. Location: in the port, next to the State Museum of Contemporary Art;

7). Kourdhisto Gourouni Bar - Several brands of imported draft beer and an insane variety of bottled beer brands in a stylish bar with tables in the hall and on the street, there is also expensive food. Location: Ayiyas-Sofiyas 31;

8). Bar Pasta Flora Darling - Garden gnomes and floral wallpaper, jazz tables and psychedelic lighting - the décor is as motley as the crowd at this typical Iktinu Zefxidu bar, good cocktails and vegetarian snacks. Location: Zefxidu 6;

9). Sante Bar - A fabulously outlandish bar in a neoclassical-style silk factory exhibition hall adapted for a hot spot: funny American Indians from papier-mâché and other exotics. The music has a Latin American touch: there are many tangos and Cuban and Brazilian rhythms, and the decoration is partly inspired by the look of a crumpled pack of Santa cigarettes, and the establishment is named after this brand of tobacco (Sante means health (French)). Location: Kapodistriou 3.

• Performances and other cultural events

In winter, cultural events are mostly held on the stages of the National Theater of Northern Greece (Kratiko Teatro Vouriou Ellados). In the center, this means either Etheria Macedonicon Spudon, or the ultra-modern Vasiliko Teatro: both sites are behind the White Tower, and from each one can see the other. In summer, cultural events move to the stage and other open-air venues: the Teatro Kipu near the archaeological museum. On the mountain, at Teatro Dassus among the pines to the east of the upper city, from late June to mid-September, or at Teatro Damari, above the Kaftanzoglio Stadium in the Tryandria region, where sometimes big Greek and foreign stars visit.

Aside from the free weekly About (every Thursday; € 1.50), there are no magazines that constantly print announcements in the city, so watch the posters in the windows of the outlets that sell tickets most often: look out for the windows of the Albandis record stores ”(Mitropoleos 14-16),“ Patsis ”(Tsimiski 41) and“ Virgin ”(shopping mall on Tsimiski 43), as well as on the windows of bars and on the walls. The most poignant and daring events take place at Mylos on Andreu-Yeoriu 56, a multi-purpose cultural complex housed in an old mill, west of the center.

Here you will find a couple of bars, a café with live jazz, the popular tsipuradiko (you can have lunch), a summer cinema, concert halls, exhibition galleries and a theater. Another site worth mentioning is the very lively center in the former Catholic monastery of Moni Lazariston in Stavroupoli at 25 Kolokotroni, 2 kilometers along Langada to the north of the center. Moni is considered part of the extensive National Theater of Northern Greece project and gathers in its theaters - the main one and the smaller - the audience for concerts, operas and drama performances, in which leading Greek performers and visiting foreign groups participate, as well as exhibitions. Travel from Platy Dicastyrion by buses 34 and 38.

• Cinema in Thessaloniki

There are quite a few indoor cinemas, which are usually closed in summer, between the White Tower and the Arch of Galeria; new and high-quality films are shown by Alexandhros at Ethnikis-Amanis 1 (also open in summer); "Egnatia" on Patryarchu Joachim 1, corner of Keramopoulou, near the church of Ayia Sophia; "Esperos" on Svola 22 (open in summer); "Makedhonikon" at Filikis Eterias, corner of Dimitriou Margarita; "Navarinon" on the square of the same name; "Vakoura" on John Michael 10.

Open (summer) cinemas in the city center have almost grown - well-being (and the prices of real estate and land in the center) has grown very much, but some survived: Alekh on Olambu 106, neighboring Aigli at Yeni Hammam and Ellinis - this is the summer branch of the Egnatia cinema - on the HANTH payment; and Natali, at the very beginning of Megalu Alexandru, next to the Macedonia Palace hotel. The announcements are published in the daily Greek newspapers.

Shopping in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, to be sure, is far from a mecca for shopping lovers, but, nevertheless, on and near Tsimiski you will find all kinds of emboria selling sophisticated clothes and shoes, and there are interesting shops in the outskirts of the city. Souvenir hunters are offered three main options: books, sound recordings, or a decent bottle of local wine.

1). Books and newspapers - “Prometheus / Molhona” Tzimiski 10 and “Konstandinidhis” on Egnatia 125 - far above all other bookstores in the city: the shelves with literature in English, including those dedicated to Thessaloniki, magazines and newspapers are magnificent. "Promitheus" on Ermu 75 and Isavron 1, near the Navarino plate, is good if you need newspapers and magazines;

2). Music - There are many record shops in the city, but you can find the best Greek music in Studio 52, in the basement of house 52 on Dimitriou Gunari: a lot of old vinyl records and cassettes, but a lot of good CDs; and at “En Chordais”, Ippodromio 3-4 is a school of traditional music that also sells musical instruments. As for the sound recordings, there is a good selection of folk and the groundbreaking recordings on the CD "Stereodisc" on Aristotelus 4 offers a good selection of rock as well as Greek music;

3). Wine - Although Thessaloniki is in northern Greece, they know how to cultivate grapes here, therefore, the city is rich in shops with many bottles, good and different, and you have the right to indulge in something from that drink that you are treated to in the taverns ly Tsaritsani on Avierin 9 at Platia Atonos; Ftukschesh on Dimitriu Gunari 42; and Reklos at Ayiu Dimitriou 118, at the intersection with Ayiyas Sofiyas.

Neighborhood Thessaloniki

On weekends, townspeople who want to escape from Thessaloniki head primarily to the Halkidiki peninsula, but it is not enough to get to the best beaches of the peninsula. If you want just a short break from the bustle of the city or take a walk along the hills and low mountain slopes, think of the villages close to Thessaloniki and even the suburbs. And a little further - by car - on the way to Nea Moudania, you can stop by an extraordinary cave near Petralona - moreover, if you make contact with a local tour operator, then a half-day excursion is possible without your own transport.

• Locations Panorama and Hortiatis

Panorama is 11 kilometers southeast of Thessaloniki, on a mountain slope. This is the name of the place closest to the city where you can hide from this very city. And it does not disappoint expectations in exact accordance with the name: the panorama includes both Thessaloniki and the bay approaching the city. Rebuilt after World War II, the town is made up mostly of quaint villas, coffee shops and an American-style huge modern shopping mall.

More tempting, of course, are the few, but more old-fashioned cafes, taverns and zharoplasty - these latter pamper customers with the first of the local delicacies - "trigona" (very sweet sweets with cream filling), as well as wonderful ice cream, which, in Turkish taste, is flavored with mastic is called by the Turkish word "dondurma". In Panorama from Platy Dikastirion there is bus number 58 and, of course, you can take a taxi (about 5 € one way).

The place is more interesting - 11 kilometers further, but to the east (or 16 kilometers in a straight line from Thessaloniki) - it is called Hortiatis. This is in the mountainous area known as Hilya Dendra (Thousand Trees), which has supplied water to Thessaloniki since ancient times: next to the road, you can still see the ruins of an ancient aqueduct.

To get to Hortiatis from Thessaloniki, catch bus number 61: it picks up passengers disembarking from bus number 58 at the intersections from which both buses go to Panorama. Hortiatis has great views of Thessaloniki, a walk among the pine trees and some popular taverns. The fame of the Tsakis tavern, for example, is more than deserved, so, in order not to be upset, book a table in advance, especially in summer.

• Petralona village

In 1959, the inhabitants of the village of Petralona, \u200b\u200b50 kilometers southeast of Thessaloniki, were looking for water among the surrounding picturesque mountains, but came across a cave named Kokkines-Petres (Red stones). In addition to impressive stalactites and stalagmites, peasants - and later professional scientists - discovered the fossilized bones of prehistoric animals and - the most amazing thing! - Neanderthal skull: all of this is on display in a museum located near the entrance to the cave.

The cave, equipped with dioramas depicting prehistoric life, is well worth a visit and can be visited on the way to the Kasandra Peninsula - or returning from there. You will find the village of Petralona on the old road Thessaloniki-Nea-Moudania, on the narrowest isthmus of the peninsula, about 4 kilometers north of Eleochoria. There is a small cafe on site. For a half day trip, you can go to the Doucas Travel Collection in Thessaloniki.

In contact with

Thessaloniki was founded in the 3rd century BC. e. Since then, the city has repeatedly become the arena of significant historical events. Moreover, Thessaloniki remains an important center of Christianity - the Apostle Paul preached here and the enlighteners Cyril and Methodius were born. The city's architectural heritage is priceless, despite the fact that the historic quarters were destroyed in a fire in 1917. The overwhelming majority of city churches and monasteries of the Byzantine period are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Thessaloniki is a popular Aegean resort and the cultural capital of Greece. Local beaches are marked with a "blue flag" for their cleanliness, comfort and convenience for tourists. The city hosts many colorful festivals and interesting events throughout the year. The architectural monuments of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman eras are located right in the middle of residential areas.

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What to see and where to go in Thessaloniki?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.

1. White Tower

Presumably, the structure was erected in the X century, as evidenced by the surviving inscription on one of the walls. For centuries, the tower was part of the fortress fence that separated residential areas from the cemetery. It reaches a height of 27 meters, the diameter of the wall ring is 23 meters. In 1912, the building was painted white and received its modern name. Today, the tower houses a museum.

2. City embankment

The place where all tourist routes of Thessaloniki start. The street is located on the site of the city walls demolished in the 19th century. It stretches from the White Tower to the port. The embankment runs along the very edge of the water. There are bustling avenues and hotels along the shore. Cycle paths and pedestrian walkways are equipped for tourists, as well as cozy green squares where you can take a break from the midday heat.

3. Aristotle square

The central square of Thessaloniki, which finally took shape at the beginning of the 20th century, when the entire city underwent a large-scale reconstruction after a fire. Concerts, celebrations, political rallies and other social events are constantly held here. Aristotle Square is home to the monumental neoclassical buildings of the Electra Palace Hotel and the Olympion Cinema.

4. Monument to Alexander the Great

The monument is located on the city embankment in the immediate vicinity of the White Tower. The inhabitants of Thessaloniki have a special relationship with the personality of Alexander the Great. It was during his reign that the city reached its peak. The figure of the king is seated on a rearing horse. On a wide pedestal behind the Macedonian statue, spears with shields are attached, on which symbolic images are applied.

5. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

The museum was opened in 1962 in a building designed by P. Quarantinos. The exposition covers a wide period in the history of the region of Macedonia in general and the city in particular. A large number of artifacts have been found as a result of excavations. The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is considered one of the best in Greece. Many valuable artifacts are several hundred years old and are of great value to history.

6. War Museum of Thessaloniki

The museum has been operating since 2000. The exposition is located in a building of the early XX century, it is considered part of the collection of the Military Museum of Athens. It contains artifacts and documents relating to various events that took place in the history of Greece: the Balkan Wars, the Greco-Italian War, the Greek Revolution, the First and Second World Wars. The museum has a library where the publications of the Greek Defense Ministry are kept.

7. Museum of Byzantine Culture

The museum was established in 1994 under the authority of the Greek Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The exposition, as the name suggests, is dedicated to the cultural history of the Byzantine Empire. The collection is housed in several thematic rooms. The decision to establish the museum was made in 1913. During the First World War, all artifacts were taken to Athens for security purposes. The meeting did not return to its place until several decades later.

8. Museum of the Macedonian Struggle

The collection of the museum is dedicated to aspects of the armed conflict of 1904–1908. and its consequences (the struggle of Greece for the region of Macedonia). It is located in a 19th century neoclassical building designed by E. Ziller. Among the exhibits are weapons, personal belongings of the leaders of the struggle, books, newspapers, valuable archival documents. The museum hosts group tours and educational lectures.

9. Ataturk House Museum

The famous Turkish leader Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was born in Thessaloniki in 1881, when the city was part of the Ottoman Empire. The house where he spent his childhood and youth was turned into a museum in the middle of the 20th century. It was here that the reformer discussed the ideas of a free democratic state with his associates. All furnishings, pieces of furniture, documents, personal belongings of Ataturk in the building are genuine.

10. Science Center and Museum of Technology

The museum was organized in 1978 to popularize scientific discoveries and research. The exposition contains various technical mechanisms and devices that people have invented since ancient times. The museum also has a digital planetarium, a virtual attraction and an interactive technology park, where you can explore various natural phenomena in action.

11. Jewish Museum

The exposition opened in 2000 on the territory of the neoclassical building of 1904, which previously housed the Bank of Attica. The building miraculously survived during the devastating fire that engulfed the city in 1917. The collection is dedicated to the everyday and cultural aspects of the life of the Jewish community of Thessaloniki. An impressive part of the collection tells about the events of the Holocaust that swept Europe in the 1930s-40s.

12. Basilica of St. Demetrius

A temple built on the site of ancient Roman baths in the 4th century (according to one of the generally accepted versions). The first building of the basilica existed until the 7th century, then it was destroyed by earthquakes and fires. In the XIV century, a mosque was housed in the temple. Christian services resumed at the beginning of the 20th century. During a fire in 1917, the building was badly damaged and was reconstructed by the 1950s. The relics of St. Demetrius of Thessalon are kept in the temple.

13. Temple of Hagia Sophia

Orthodox church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is believed that the first basilica on this site appeared in the 5th century. In the VIII century, a building was erected, which has survived to this day. In the 11th century, the temple was rebuilt and significantly expanded, from the 15th to the 20th centuries. it was used as a mosque. After the return of Thessaloniki to Greece following the results of the First Balkan War, the church was again transferred to the Christian community.

14. Vlatadon Monastery

An Orthodox monastery for men, founded in the 14th century with the active assistance of the Byzantine empress Anna Palaeologus, who at that time settled in Thessaloniki. The main cathedral of the monastery is a magnificent architectural monument of the Byzantine era, which survived several centuries and has been preserved in excellent condition. The rest of the buildings belong to later periods.

15. Latomu Monastery

The monastery is located in the central part of Thessaloniki. It was founded in the 5th-6th centuries, but the ancient buildings have not survived to this day. Like many other Christian monasteries and churches, the main temple of Latomu was turned into a mosque under the Ottoman Turks and existed in this capacity until the beginning of the 20th century. During the restoration work, frescoes of the 12th century were discovered under a layer of plaster.

16. Church of St. Nicholas Orphanos

The main cathedral of the Vlatadon monastery, dedicated to Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker (Orphanos). The foundation of the temple dates back to the beginning of the XIV century. The interior wall painting of the church is well preserved due to the fact that the walls were covered with plaster (the temple was used as a mosque until the 17th century). The building is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a valuable monument of early Christian architecture.

17. Church of St. Panteleimon

13th century Byzantine temple located in the center of Thessaloniki. Modern quarters surround it on all sides. Despite the fact that the church is included in the UNESCO register, it has not been fully restored. In some places, the building has a rather neglected appearance, but this in no way diminishes its architectural value. The interior has been lost, with only a few original frescoes preserved.

18. Church of Panagia Chalkeon

A picturesque cross-domed church of the early Christian period, erected in the 11th century. The church building is built of red bricks. After the passage of Thessaloniki back to Greece in 1912, the temple remained abandoned until the 1930s. During the restoration work, the Panagia Chalkeon church acquired its original appearance. Unfortunately, the interior wall painting is not well preserved.

19. Arch of Gallery

An architectural monument of the Roman era, which is part of the burial complex of the emperor Maximilian Galerius, who ruled in the III-IV centuries. In the 5th century, the building was converted into a church; from the 14th century, a mosque was located here. Only part of the stone wall with bas-reliefs and two arched passages has survived to this day. Arch of Galerius is one of the most significant architectural monuments of Thessaloniki.

20. Rotunda Galeria

The construction of the beginning of the 3rd century, supposedly built in honor of the pagan god Zeus. According to another version, it is the memorial complex of Emperor Maximilian Galerius. In the 4th century the building was converted into a church, in the 16th century it was used as a mosque of Sheikh S. Kh. Efendi. In the period 1912-1978. on the territory of the rotunda there was an exhibition of Byzantine and early Christian sculpture.

21. Greek Agora and the Roman Forum

The ancient Roman forum was discovered in the 1960s. as a result of excavations in the central part of Thessaloniki. Even earlier, the Greek agora was located here - a wide square surrounded by temples, public buildings and craft workshops. The theater has survived from the ancient buildings, which, after restoration, began to be used for concerts, as in the days of Ancient Greece and Rome.

22. Fortress Eptapyrgio

The northern part of the fortress was built in the 4th century under the Emperor Theodosius I (according to an alternative version - in the 9th century), the southern one appeared much later - in the 12th century. Until the 19th century, the fort was used for military purposes, then a prison was located on its territory. Since the late 1980s. the building was transferred to the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. In 1995, the first phase of the archaeological excavation was completed.

23. OTE TV Tower

The TV tower was built in 1966 and reconstructed in 2005. The building is 76 meters high. Inside, on a revolving platform, there is a panoramic restaurant that makes a full revolution on its axis in 40 minutes. The TV tower also has an observation deck from where you can admire Thessaloniki. The interior of the building is used for various official events.

24. Market Modiano

A large market, which began work in 1922 thanks to the merchant of Jewish origin E. Modiano. The shops are located near Aristotle's Square almost in the very center of Thessaloniki. The market sells local products, souvenirs, flowers and other goods. There are also taverns-uzeri, where creative people gather. Not far from the bazaar there is a complex of Turkish baths Yahudi Hamam.

25. Waterland Water Park

The water park is located 8 km from Thessaloniki. It was opened in 1994. At that time, its technical equipment was considered one of the best in southern Europe. Today "Waterland" looks a little outdated, but this does not prevent tourists from visiting it at all. The water park has eight slides, several pools, bars, sports grounds, a play area for children and equipped picnic areas.

Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) is the second largest city in Greece after Athens, it is a Greek port and port of the Mediterranean Sea, the largest city in Macedonia, the birthplace of Cyril and Methodius (the creators of the Old Slavonic alphabet), it is a Greek resort city.

Thessaloniki is a beautiful city with a long history that stretches over many centuries; it is called the northern capital of Greece.

The founding of Thessaloniki took place in the Hellenistic period, in time it coincides with a critical phase in the history of the Macedonian Kingdom.

After the untimely death of Alexander the Great, a struggle for power flared up in the kingdom in order to establish himself on the throne, the Macedonian king Cassander married Alexander the Great's sister - Thessalonica.

Despite his cruel morals, Kassander was a great connoisseur of culture - he founded in 315 BC. the city of Thessaloniki (Thessaloniki) and named it after his wife, restored the city of Thebes, destroyed by Alexander the Great.

In the II century BC. the city was conquered by the Romans, like the rest of Greece and it becomes the capital of Roman Macedonia.

The favorable geographical position of Thessaloniki (crossing the trade route from Rome to Constantinople) during the collapse of the Roman Empire significantly affected the cultural development and significance of the city. Thessaloniki is becoming one of the main centers of Orthodoxy, the city is growing rich and developing culturally. For this reason, Thessaloniki was constantly conquered by the Goths, Avars, Arabs, Bulgarians, Latins.

In 1432, after a long siege, the city falls under the rule of the Ottoman Empire and its power goes away for many years. Only a fifth of the Greek population of the city remains: many Greeks were killed during the hostilities, others were sold into slavery to Muslims, some of the Greeks went to live in the mountains, someone converted to Islam. Most of Ottoman Thessaloniki were Jews who were expelled from Spain, later joined by Jews from Portugal and Italy.

In the first year of the Greek national uprising against the Ottomans in 1821, Thessaloniki was subjected to severe repression - more than three thousand Greeks were killed, mainly children, women and the elderly.

The city suffered enormous damage during the Second World War. In 1941, the German invaders captured Thessaloniki and subjected it to fierce bombing. The city survived a brutal four-year occupation by the German Nazis and their accomplices - the Italian and Bulgarian fascists. The Jewish community was almost completely destroyed.

The modern city of Thessaloniki is a million-strong city that has preserved unique architectural monuments of world importance, it is a cultural and commercial center of Greece and the entire Balkan Peninsula, there is a major Mediterranean port and an international airport.

There are 3 large universities in Thessaloniki: the Aristotle University with the richest library, the Macedonian University and the Alexandria Institute of Technology.

In addition, beautiful Thessaloniki attracts millions of tourists with its extraordinary hospitality, azure sea and excellent beaches, gentle sun, excellent hotels, nightclubs, restaurants, bars, cafes, shops for every taste.

Sights of Thessaloniki

A trip to Thessaloniki will charm you - the city has an abundance of interesting places, museums, Byzantine churches.

White Tower is the most famous building of the city, it is located in the eastern part of the embankment, was built by the Turks in the 15th century as part of the city's fortifications, there was also a prison and a place of torture. After the liberation of the city from the Ottoman yoke, the tower was repaired and whitewashed in order to cleanse it of blood, and thus the tower was renamed the "White Tower". Despite the fact that today the White Tower is no longer white, it retains its name and is considered the symbol of the city of Thessaloniki. At the very top there is an observation deck overlooking the city; inside there is a museum.

Basilica of Agiu Dimitriouis the largest temple in Greece, built in the center of Thessaloniki. Saint Demetrius is the patron saint of the city, the temple was destroyed by a great fire in 1917 and rebuilt in 1948, it is decorated with magnificent inlaid mosaics. Under the temple there is a crypt, the place where Saint Demetrius was martyred and died.

Temple of Agia Sophia. Hagia Sophia was built in the 8th century as a copy of the church of the same name in Istanbul. In the Byzantine period, Hagia Sophia was the city's cathedral; it was built on the site of Roman baths. The interior is decorated with magnificent mosaics and frescoes of the early Byzantine period, the most significant is the mosaic of the Ascension of the Savior.

Rotunda is a circular building that was built in 306 as a pantheon or mausoleum for the Roman emperor Γaleria. In the Byzantine period, during the reign of the Great Theodosius, the Rotunda turned into a Christian temple, and during the period of Turkish rule - into a mosque. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the unique 4th century mosaics.

Other places to visit: Upper town, Arch of Galerius, Roman Agora, walk along the embankment and Aristotle square, visit one of the best water parks in Greece (near the village of Tagarades, 8 km from Thessaloniki), museums are proud.

Sightseeing of Thessaloniki, you can do on a tourist train, which runs every day, starting its work at 10-30 in the morning. The whole trip will take you 45 minutes, a ticket costs 4 euros, a child's 2 euros. During the trip, you will hear a story about the sights of Thessaloniki in English and Greek.

What to visit near the city of Thessaloniki, read

How to get from the airport of Thessaloniki to the bus station, to the city center, read

Required phones in Thessaloniki:

• tel. police 100
• tel. Tourist Police +30 2310 554871
• tel. KTEL (bus station) +30 2310 595408
• tel. port +302310593120
• tel. Archaeological Museum +30 2310830538
• tel. Byzantine Museum +30 2310688570

Thessaloniki is a place that has preserved an invaluable heritage of world history. Here tourists are greeted by numerous museums, cultural monuments, architectural structures, archaeological sites. City streets and wide squares, old buildings, as if taken from books about history. The White Tower by the sea, the walls of the Upper City fortress, the ancient Agora, the tomb of King Philip, the triumphal arch of Emperor Galerius, the Basilica of Hagia Sophia, the Temple of St.Dimitri (patronizing the city), the Archaeological Museum, the University. Aristotle, where there is a rich library, an astronomical observatory, the State Theater of Northern Greece - Thessaloniki rightfully deserve the title of the most beautiful cities in the state.

The infrastructure of the city includes everything that tourists need, and the high level of establishments will be appreciated even by demanding travelers: beautiful hotel complexes, hotels designed for various needs and capabilities of guests, picturesque beaches around the city, various bars, restaurants, clubs, taverns, shops. The hospitable Greeks are becoming one of the most important factors in the attractiveness of Thessaloniki, most clearly felt in the small resort villages. Feel the real atmosphere of local life with a cup of quality Greek coffee off the coast of Temaikos Bay, or dine on traditional Greek dishes in the Upper Town tavern with beautiful views of the city and the sea.

Those who don't have enough entertainment in the daylight should dive into the atmosphere of night fun. Life in Thessaloniki after sunset is no less bright. Tourists can go to various clubs with incendiary music, enjoy a cocktail at local bars, dance in a disco, or choose any entertainment center where famous performers of Greece perform. With such a variety of leisure options. Thessaloniki will be remembered for a long time, people will want to return here to experience happiness more than once.

Shopping in Thessaloniki

The northern Greek capital is like a scattering of bright colors for shopping lovers: colorful shop windows, catchy names of world brands, colorful boutiques, promotions, discounts, sales, special offers, gifts, souvenirs - everything that tourists appreciate on long trips. Thessaloniki is known not only for historical monuments from different periods of the formation of the Greek state, for the good nature of the population, but also for the way of life that forms the crazy rhythm of the modern city. Numerous shopping centers accommodate expensive brands, world fashion houses and modest shops offering goods at affordable prices on their floors.

Color of the Greek market

Boutiques and fashion brands are not the only asset of Thessaloniki. Tired of walking through the shopping gallery, head to the local market. Here you will get acquainted with the true Greek way of shopping. You can get here if you move up from Aristotle's square, right between Tsimiski and Egnatia streets.

Get ready to meet the real scattering of scents that await every tourist in the market. Various flavors, bright colors of counters filled with vegetables, fruits, fresh olives, cheeses, aromatic spices - here you can get the experience as a whole tour. The market is also rich in seafood: fish, seafood. The Greek market is a place where respect can be earned through bargaining. Sellers will appreciate the activity of the buyer, but they will not be able to leave empty-handed.

After finishing the market walk, you should head to Tsimiski - this is the main shopping street of Thessaloniki. On both sides there are boutiques and shops where visitors can find various goods. Greek families go shopping here, however, sometimes they visit large shopping centers for this purpose.

Having disassembled the purchases, you can continue your acquaintance with the city, moving on to a variety of entertainment. Things to do in Thessaloniki

The youthful atmosphere of the city sets a certain rhythm of life. The vibrant nightlife of Thessaloniki is known not only in Greece but also abroad. Various clubs, bars, night discos - there is entertainment for every tourist.

With the onset of evening, the city seems to wake up, revive, the streets begin to sound with the voices of a noisy crowd. Tourists from abroad and Greeks from different parts of the country come here to relax. Young people find their place in clubs that sound modern rhythms, for older guests there are numerous taverns with their traditional dishes and live music. Such establishments give the opportunity to feel the mood of a cozy family dinner or celebration.

The dynamic life of Thessaloniki is combined with historical wealth and youth activity, attracting thousands of tourists every year. This city will open up a whole new world of adventure, emotions, impressions.

Features:

You can get around the city in several ways: by bus or taxi. Taxi services are relatively affordable, tariffs for a resort town are adequate. For large groups of travelers, the bus will cost significantly more. Taxis can be stopped directly on the street, taken from a special parking lot, or called by phone.

Car rental is available for tourists from 25 to 70 years old, rental centers can be found throughout the city. The rental price will depend on the class of the car chosen for movement. The season also affects the cost. To rent a car, you need to have an international driver's license and a credit card with sufficient funds to pay for the rental.

But the driving habits of local residents are not the best side of Thessaloniki. Drivers rarely follow the rules of movement, so both motorists and pedestrians should be careful on the roads.

It will be more profitable to pay in cafes and shops in national currency. Currency exchange is available at city banks and private exchange offices. Government institutions (banks are no exception) are closed on weekends, and on weekdays they work from 8:30 to 14:00, Friday - a shorter working day.

The opening hours of the shops vary considerably. They start serving clients at 9 am and finish at 9 am. Private pavilions regulate the opening hours on their own, influenced by the tourist season. To save money, a tourist should go to the market, where he can bargain with the seller, significantly reducing the price.

When you decide to visit a local restaurant, be prepared for huge portions. This is a significant feature, the waiters of Greek establishments are already accustomed to the surprise of tourists. It would be appropriate to ask for additional appliances for one dish, there will be no misunderstanding.

For those wishing to take some pictures of historical monuments or museum exhibits, it will be useful to know that most of these places require a separate filming fee. At the entrance, it is worth asking about the rules of a particular institution or object, perhaps special tickets are sold that give the right to take pictures.

The outward calmness of the city should not cause too careless behavior. Keep things in sight, and exchange of money should be done in designated areas. Carrying large sums of money with you is not worth it, it is better to leave valuables at home so as not to attract robbers.

Climate

Like most Greek cities, the holiday season of Thessaloniki starts with significant warming in April and ends only in October. The peak of tourist activity occurs in the summer, when the sea becomes as warm as possible, and the air warms up to the highest temperatures. In the second half of summer, +35 degrees is normal for Thessaloniki, so it is worth preparing protection from the scorching sun. It often rains in spring and autumn, although it is during this period that various festivals fall. In winter, sometimes there is a little snow, but the air temperature rarely drops below 6 degrees Celsius.

The mildness of the Mediterranean climate causes minimal precipitation in summer and a sufficient amount of them from November to December. At the height of the holiday season, sea water warms up to a comfortable 25 degrees.

What to see in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is rich in sights; most of the Greek monuments are located here. Walking along the streets of the city, you will discover the most mysterious corners. Most often, excursion programs begin from Aristotle's Square, which has gained fame as the most beautiful and most magnificent in the state. It is considered one of the main squares in Thessaloniki along with Freedom Square. The main decoration of this place is the flower clock. Also, the attention of travelers will be attracted by the patterned balconies and vaulted galleries of buildings - the creations of the hands of the French architect Embrard.

Among the sights of Thessaloniki, the White Tower stands out, the second name of which is the Tower of Lions. This building, stretching towards the sky, divides the city embankment into two parts: Old and New. The building of the 5th century saved the city from numerous attacks, but now, when such a need disappeared, the tower was turned into a museum with an observation deck. A beautiful panorama opens up to the eyes of a tourist who finds himself here.

The Archaeological Museum is located not far from the White Tower. It has a long memory of Greek history: extensive art collections. Unique exhibits of the museum are Macedonian artifacts. It is worth paying attention to the jewelry of the commanders of Byzantium.

Among the attractions, the Temple of Thessaloniki stands out. The Basilica of St. Dmitry is the most important religious building in the city. Among the buildings of the Middle Ages, the most beautiful is the Church of the Not-Made Icon of the Mother of God or Achiropiitos. The influence of Constantinople is noticeable in the Hagia Sophia, mirroring the church of Agia Sophia. Tourists can see the beautiful paintings and frescoes of the Macedonian school in the Church of St. Catherine. The place of aspiration of pilgrims from all over the world is the temple of Gregory Palamas, where the relics of the saint are kept.

Another attraction of Thessaloniki is the architectural complex of Emperor Galerius Maximian. The residence of the Roman ruler was located in the northeastern part of the city; the arch of the estate can be seen even now. Together with the rotunda, it belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage List, being one of the most important monuments in the history of Greece. The rotunda houses a museum with a rich collection of works of art.

Things to do in Thessaloniki

The beautiful beaches in the vicinity of Thessaloniki attract tourists with their infrastructure and blue waters of the sea. Agia Triada is a picturesque corner of the coast 22 kilometers from the city center. The sea of \u200b\u200bThessaloniki is not admirable, but a little further it is perfectly clean. Golden sand, combined with a developed infrastructure and accessibility in relation to many hotels, is a recipe for an ideal holiday for the whole family.

Equally popular is the Angelochori beach, located 30 kilometers from Thessaloniki. This place has earned a special love among the conquerors of the elements: local winds raise huge waves, providing a lot of opportunities for surfers, kitesurfing fans and many others. Another beach is more suitable for a relaxing holiday - Nea Michaniona. The pacification of landscapes, calm sea, clean territory - conditions are conducive to relaxation.

When planning your trip, you should pay attention to the sales season. It is here that you can get high quality fur products at very low prices. The summer season of discounts falls in mid-July, while in the winter stores arrange a sale from January 15th. Discounts reach 70%, so saving on wardrobe updates will allow you to go to Greece again. Shops are filled not only by tourists, but also by the Greeks themselves, and they definitely know a lot about good shopping.

More details

sights

Roman forum

The ruins of the Roman Forum are one of the most famous and interesting sights of Thessaloniki. The Roman Forum was built on the site of an ancient agora in the 2nd century BC. For a long time it was the administrative center of the city and significantly influenced the politics, economy and social life of Thessaloniki. During the reign of the Roman Empire, the Forum became an important trade center. After a while, the city was destroyed, abandoned and forgotten for many centuries.

The Forum complex of buildings occupied a huge area and was located on two levels - the Upper and Lower Agora. The Upper Agora housed government offices, workshops, baths, shops. The main value of this place is considered to be the Odeon, decorated with arches, columns and marble auditoriums. On the Lower Agora, there were semi-underground vaulted galleries.

The Roman Forum is an important historical and archaeological cultural monument. Its ruins were first discovered during the construction of the building of Justice. Through the efforts of archaeologists, construction work was stopped and excavations began in their place in the 1960s.
Many valuable artifacts found as a result of the excavations were transferred to the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki.

Today the attraction is open to tourists. Unique ruins allow you to explore ancient history and culture. Also on the territory of the Ancient agora there is an interesting museum.

Rotunda

Another noteworthy attraction is the St. George Rotunda. The Rotunda is a valuable architectural and historical monument of the city. By order of Emperor Galerius, a large palace complex was erected. At the beginning of the 4th century, the Rotunda was built, which is part of this complex.

There are several opinions about the purpose of the Rotunda. According to the first version, it was supposed to become the emperor's mausoleum. According to another, the Rotunda building was intended for official receptions. The third version says that the building was planned to be used as a temple.

Scientists suggest that in the 4th century the building turned into a Christian church of St. Gregory the Victorious, which operated until the 16th century. At the turn of the IV-V centuries. the temple was restored. At the same time, it was painted with magnificent mosaics. Some of them can be seen with your own eyes.

After the capture of Thessaloniki, the Turks rebuilt a minaret on the territory, turning the monastery into a mosque. The mosque existed for about 4 centuries, and the minaret has survived perfectly to our time. Only at the beginning of the 20th century did Christians manage to return their shrine.

White Tower

The White Tower is a popular historical landmark. Tourists visiting Thessaloniki cannot bypass this place.
The architectural monument was built by the Turks in the 15th century on the site of the Byzantine fortifications. The tower was built for defensive purposes. Soon it was used as a barracks, and then as a prison. Executions were constantly taking place in the tower. The largest of which is the execution of the mutinous Ottoman infantry. Too much blood was spilled within the walls of the defensive structure. The people called this place “The Bloody Tower”.

After the official annexation of Thessaloniki to Greece, a large-scale reconstruction of the landmark took place. The former walls were painted with white paint and the building was given a new name - "White Tower".

The attraction is located on the shores of the Thermaikos Gulf. Tourists gather around it to admire the impressive structure. Inside there is a Byzantine Museum, the exposition of which acquaints visitors with local history. The tower is also an excellent observation deck. An incredible panorama of the city and the embankment opens from here.

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is the most interesting and one of the best cultural places in all of Greece. It first opened in 1925. The first premises of the museum were located in the Eni Jami mosque. But due to the rapid growth of finds and artifacts, the collection began to run out of space. In the middle of the 20th century, the building of the new museum was erected according to the project of the famous architect Patroclus Quarantinos, and it was opened in 1962. 18 years later, a new wing was added, in which the artifacts of the royal tomb of Vergina were located for 17 years.

The large-scale collection of the museum includes exhibits from prehistoric to ancient times. All exhibits introduce visitors to the history of Greek Macedonia, and many of them confirm that the first Greek tribes arose in Macedonia.

The museum contains sculptures, coins, funerary artifacts, jewelry, pottery, mosaics and many valuables found during excavations.

Valuable historical finds are a bronze vessel from the 3rd century BC, a statue of Hippocrates dating from the 2nd century BC. Here is the golden coffin of Philip II, king of Macedonia.

The museum periodically hosts exhibitions on various topics, lectures, seminars and other events.

Museum of Byzantine Culture

The Museum of Byzantine Culture is also considered one of the most interesting and popular museums in Greece.

It opened in 1994 in a building designed by the architect Kyriakos Krokos. More than 3000 artifacts transport visitors to the history of the Byzantine Empire. The chronological order of the exposition allows visitors to study in more detail and in depth each stage of the Byzantine era. The first exhibition is dedicated to Christian churches of the 4th-7th centuries. She acquaints visitors with the architecture, mosaics, paintings of that time. The second exhibition tells about local residents in the IV-VII centuries.

The third exhibition presents burial artifacts of early Christianity. The fourth introduces to the culture and art of the VIII-XII centuries. Other rooms are dedicated to Byzantine rulers and interesting collections. Exhibitions, various educational programs and events are regularly held within its walls.

Modern Art Museum

The Museum of Modern Art is a must-see for true art lovers. The museum is located in the building of the Lazariston monastery. It opened in 1997. The opening of the museum was initiated by the Minister of Culture, Evangelos Venizelos. The exposition consisted of the famous collection of the Russian avant-garde Georgy Kostaki.

Today the museum houses over 1,500 works. Among them are sculptures, paintings, installations and graphics. The Giorgi Kostaki archive contains interesting historical documents. On the basis of this archive, the museum studies in depth the history of the emergence and development of the Russian avant-garde.

Thanks to foreign cooperation with educational and cultural institutions, the museum is actively developing and conducting scientific activities. Within its walls, lectures, seminars, educational programs are constantly held.

Latomu monastery

One of the main religious attractions of Thessaloniki is the Latomou Monastery, located in the heart of Thessaloniki. Today, only the Church of St. David remains from the entire complex of monastic buildings.

The history of the church begins approximately in the 5th-6th centuries. The monastery was erected on the site of an ancient Roman building. She served as a catholicon and is still active to this day.

During the reign of the Ottoman Empire, the church became a mosque, ancient mosaics and frescoes were hidden for many years with a layer of plaster. Mosaics from the 5th-6th centuries were discovered in the 1920s during restoration. One of them depicts the figure of Christ. Several years later, frescoes from the 12th century were found. Today, these ancient historical relics are the value of the monastery.

Church of the Holy Apostles

Near the medieval walls there is a local landmark - the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles. According to an inscription found at the entrance to the church, it was erected in the period 1310-1314. It was founded by Niphon I, Patriarch of Constantinople. The church is decorated with frescoes depicting the Virgin Mary. Presumably, the monastery was dedicated to the Mother of God. Cisterns and other architectural fragments found on its territory indicate that a whole monastery complex was located here. Scientists believe that the Church of the Holy Apostles was a catholicon. Its beautiful and valuable frescoes of the Byzantine dynasty of the Palaeologus have survived to this day.

With the capture of Thessaloniki by the Turks, the church, like all other Christian monasteries, turned into a mosque. All the frescoes and mosaics were hidden under the plaster.

Fortunately, during the restoration work of the 20th century, some of the frescoes were discovered and restored. The magnificent works of art are of great historical and cultural value.

In 1988, the Church of the Holy Apostles was included in the list of World Heritage Sites.

Church of St. Panteleimon

The exact date of the foundation of the Church of St. Panteleimon is not known. It is believed that it was built at the turn of the XIII-XIV centuries and was the catholicon of the monastery of the Most Holy Theotokos. 100 years after its foundation, the monastery has become an important educational and spiritual center.

The Turkish invaders converted the church into a mosque. Beautiful old frescoes were destroyed, some of them were walled up. On the territory of the monastery, the Turks erected a minaret and a marble fountain.

During the restoration, a magnificent hidden wall inscription was discovered. Today it is of great artistic and historical value.

In sunny Greece, on the territory of the administrative district of Central Macedonia, on the coast of the Aegean Sea, surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges, lies the resort town of Thessaloniki. A major cultural, tourist, economic, historical and religious center of the country. Tourists are attracted by its rich centuries-old history, a huge number of attractions and gorgeous Greek beaches. Several eras can be traced in the architecture of the city - Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman. Soak up the golden Aegean beaches, wander through the ruins of Byzantine temples, admire the architectural monuments of the Middle Ages every year, millions of tourists come from all over the world.

History of origin

In the 3rd century BC, by order of the king of Macedonia, Kassandra, a city was erected, named after his beloved wife Thessalonica. In the 2nd century BC, the Romans came here. During the Byzantine era, the city flourished, having an advantageous location and being at the intersection of the most important trade routes. At the beginning of the 13th century, power over Thessaloniki passed to the Latin Empire. Two decades later, he became part of the Epirus Kingdom, and after another 20 years he joined the Nicene Empire. In the 14th century, the city was ruled by Greek monks zealots. At the end of the 14th century, a bloody war with the Turks began, after a long 4-year siege of Thessaloniki they fell. After the legendary victory of Tamerlane over Turkey, the city returned to Byzantium. But not for long, 30 years have passed, and Thessaloniki again found itself in the power of the Ottomans. For several centuries, Greek rebels fought for freedom. Greece became independent only in 1830.

Sights of Thessaloniki

Rotunda of St. George

In the 4th century, by order of the Roman Emperor Galerius, a mausoleum was built, it was supposed to become his tomb. During the Ottoman Empire, it turned into a mosque. A century later, the mausoleum was converted into a Christian cathedral. It is a round structure of gray stone, more like a powerful defensive fortress. The building is decorated with unique stone bas-reliefs and antique arches, the top is crowned with a huge cone-shaped dome. The main temple hall is decorated with colorful mosaics. Previously, the figure of Christ was located on the dome, over time it disappeared, now only white-winged angels can be seen on it. At the beginning of the 19th century, an art museum was located inside the cathedral. In 1978, an earthquake struck the city and the temple was closed to the public.

White Tower

The symbol of the city is the White Tower. It is located in the center of the city embankment. The tower was built by the Ottoman conquerors as a defensive outpost. Within its walls were prison premises where especially dangerous criminals were kept. For several centuries, the tower served as a reliable defense for the Byzantine Empire. It is a tall round structure in the medieval Gothic style. Today within its walls there is a large historical museum dedicated to the Byzantine era. Its exposition includes ancient icons, beautiful frescoes and unique mosaics. On the top floor of the tower there is a wonderful observation deck and a small cozy cafe. From here, a magnificent view of the sea and city landscapes opens up. You can visit the museum completely free of charge. Opening hours: from 8-30 to 15-00 h.

Aristotle square

The most visited place in Thessaloniki is Aristotle Square - the brainchild of the French architect Ernest Ebrard. Currently, a huge number of restaurants, bars and cafes are concentrated on its territory. Several architectural masterpieces with carved arches, windows and balconies, decorated with decorative ornaments and belonging to different time periods, were lined around with a dense wall. Connoisseurs of architecture will definitely have something to see. In the center of the square stands a large sculpture of Aristotle. Nearby there is an amazing flower bed in the shape of a clock.

Basilica of Saint Demetrius

Saint Dmitry is the former ruler of Thessaloniki, the patron saint of this wonderful city. After his death, the Cathedral was erected in the city in his honor. In 1917, a great fire broke out in the city, destroying a huge number of historical and architectural monuments. Among them was the temple of Demetrius. Most of the building was damaged and it took a long time to recover. Today, a beautiful renovated building with an adjoining chapel appears before the eyes of tourists. It is interesting that the interior decoration practically did not suffer and remained in its original form - ancient frescoes, unique wall paintings, mosaics. Currently, the temple is successfully functioning, a lot of religious events are held within its walls. The entrance to the building is completely free. Opening hours: from 8-00 to 20-00 h.

Tomb and Arch of Galerius

In honor of the great Roman commander Galerius, the Arc de Triomphe was erected in the city, and a little later a tomb. With the arrival of the Ottomans, the mausoleum was rebuilt into a mosque. A minaret was added to the main building. During its long history, part of the arch was destroyed. Today, on the pedestrian street of Thessaloniki, a stone structure rises, decorated with bas-reliefs and frescoes, striking in its power. You can admire this unique piece of history for free.

Archaeological Museum

The Museum of Archeology is incredibly popular among tourists. Three epochs fit within its walls - Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman. The museum exhibits several thousand ancient artifacts - a statue of Harpocrates from the 2nd century BC, a golden larnax, attributes that were used in the burial of kings, medals, masks, jewelry, helmets and much more. The museum is open daily from 8-00 to 22-00, except Monday. The ticket price is from 2 to 4 euros, depending on age.

Transport system of Thessaloniki

In the vicinity of the city, there is a large international airport Macedonia, serving domestic and foreign flights. From Russia there is a direct flight Moscow - Thessaloniki. The journey takes about 3 hours. The air ticket price is from 135 to 300 euros, depending on the season. The most common form of urban transport is the bus. The ticket price varies from 1 to 2 euros, depending on the distance. For tourists, a special bus route number 50 runs around the city. It covers all its most famous sights. The cost of such a trip is 2 euros.