What to visit in Thessaloniki. Attractions in Thessaloniki: what to see for a sophisticated tourist? Hagia Sophia

Thessaloniki, in fact, is the very city from which tourists begin their journey through this wonderful country. After all, it is in this city that the largest international Airport- Macedonia. Thessaloniki is not only the second largest city in Greece with a population of over one million people, it is also a convenient starting point for traveling around northern Greece.

In principle, if you’re just looking at it quickly, you can easily get around the city’s main attractions in one day on foot, even without using transport. Walking through the ancient streets of Thessaloniki, you will get great pleasure and will be able to see absolutely all the places that the locals are so proud of.

In the very heart of the city - in its historical center, there is one of, perhaps, the most significant Greek attractions - the Roman Forum. Naturally, today you can only see the ruins of this grandiose structure, which was considered literally until the 5th century AD the administrative center of the city of Thessaloniki. It is obvious that in those ancient times the Roman Forum included many different buildings - government agencies, various workshops, shops and public baths.

The total area of ​​these buildings was impressive figure– 2 hectares, but that’s not all. It had two levels. At the lower level there were semi-underground buildings. Nowadays, this wonderful landmark of Thessaloniki is a kind of museum, which local authorities were able to open to the public after archaeological excavations in 1960.

Another interesting landmark of Thessaloniki, only partially preserved to this day, is the arch and the Galeria Palace. The arch itself was erected back in 303 after the victory over the Persians. It was connected by galleries leading directly to the Galeria Palace, which was built literally not far from the arch. Almost all tourists and guests of the city, looking at this architectural masterpiece, note the extraordinary beauty of the structure.

The columns of the arch are entirely decorated with bas-reliefs depicting memorable scenes from the campaign against the Persians by ruler Galerius. The palace itself was also only partially preserved; its walls were especially badly damaged. There is a version among scientists that this palace may be the tomb of the ruler. It is also very likely that in the 5th century the palace (tomb) became a church consecrated in the name of St. George the Victorious, so this attraction has another name - the Rotunda of St. George. In 1988, the World Organization UNESCO included the Rotunda in its list of protected sites.

Still, the most recognizable landmark, which is also considered the face of the city, is the White Tower. Many tourists are surprised by this name, because the color of the tower walls is completely different from white. It is generally closer to a beige shade. This beautiful attraction is located near the coast Aegean Sea. The tower, erected in ancient times by the Turks, was used for a long time both as a defensive structure and as a prison, in which, as expected, executions of prisoners were carried out. Therefore, even the tower had a “bloody” reputation.

In 1912, to commemorate the power of the Greek state, the tower was restored and whitewashed on the outside. After this, it received its current name - White Tower. But, unfortunately, over time, all this external whitewash was washed away and the tower acquired its original appearance, as well as color. At the top of the White Tower there is another small tower, and at the very top there is Observation deck with stunningly beautiful views of Thessaloniki and the sea. Since 1985, inside the White Tower there has been a museum of the history and art of Thessaloniki of the Byzantine period.

Among all the city attractions of Thessaloniki, its most important church is still considered the Basilica of St. Demetrius. And this is no coincidence, since for the residents of the city, Saint Demetrius is its patron and protector. In 303, the great martyr was imprisoned in the city prison of Thessaloniki, and then, on the personal orders of the ruler Galerius, he was executed. After this, pilgrims from literally all corners of the Byzantine Empire began to come to Demetrius’s grave.

The church building itself in honor of the Great Martyr Demetrius was built on the very spot where the Roman baths were previously located, which collapsed over time. The temple was built in the very place where the basilica with Saint Demetrius buried in it is located. The appearance of the church is extremely attractive - the walls are covered with marble, decorated with frescoes and mosaics, which depict scenes from the life of Demetrius.

In 1963, the Archaeological Museum was inaugurated in Thessaloniki, which later became one of the most interesting attractions of the city. The real pride of this museum is the collection of exhibits found during excavations directly inside the city limits and on the territory of former Macedonia. Here you can find artifacts that reflect the entire history of the state of Macedonia during that period, including a lot of gold objects that were discovered directly in the cemetery located near the museum. The most valuable museum collection is considered to be treasures from the tomb of the Macedonian king Philip II, which occupy the central part of the building.

The Church of St. Nicholas occupies a special place among the city attractions of Thessaloniki. In former times, it was considered the main temple of the upper part of the city. The frescoes in this church, painted around 1320, are considered especially valuable. They depict various scenes from the Christian Bible.

You should also definitely visit the Upper Town of Thessaloniki or the Ano Poli area. It is surrounded by walls from the Byzantine period, listed as a UNESCO site. Once you are here, you will feel like you have entered a completely different world - narrow winding streets with vineyards growing everywhere, Greek music from taverns often found along the way. Here you should visit the observation deck near the Trigoniu Tower and admire the wonderful views.

Be sure to take a walk along the city embankment, which stretches from the central port all the way to the White Tower. The view from here is amazing beautiful view overlooking the bay and in clear weather you can see from here famous mountain Olympus.

And, of course, you can’t help but visit the most important square of Thessaloniki – Aristotle Square. All the most important events of the city are held here - both political and cultural. In addition, there is a monument to the great teacher and educator, the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. There is a legend invented by no one knows who says that if you rub Aristotle’s leg, you can become a little smarter. Or you can just take a photo next to the philosopher’s sculpture.

White-stone, dazzling in the rays of the bright Greek sun, Thessaloniki stretches for 12 kilometers around the Thermaikos Gulf. Local residents, treating their beloved city with great reverence, affectionately call it “the bride of Thermaikos”.

Colorful landscapes, the sea (a few kilometers from the city the famous resort area Halkidiki), pleasant weather all year round, a huge number of attractions make Thessaloniki an ideal holiday destination for tourists - Macdeonia International Airport serves 4 million passengers annually.

Thousands of years ago, in 315 BC. e. small locality on the shores of the ocean Tethys (as the Mediterranean Sea was called in ancient times), was named after the beautiful Thessalonica, half-sister of Alexander the Great and wife of King Cassander. And in 170 BC. e. the city became the capital of Macedonia.

The port, conveniently located at the crossroads of trade routes, was of strategic importance for the development of the entire province.

Profitable geographical position made Thessaloniki desirable to everyone and the capital of the Hellenes was constantly attacked: the Goths, Crusaders, Romans, Venetians and Ottomans tried to capture it.

Despite wars and repeated looting, Thessaloniki has always remained cultural center Hellas.

The history of Orthodoxy and the names of the greatest Christian saints are forever associated with the city: Demetrius of Thessalonica, the Myrrh-Streamer, monks Cyril and Methodius, Gregory Palamas.

And pilgrims never stop coming to the grave of Geronda Paisius the Holy Mountain, who won the hearts of thousands and thousands of Orthodox Christians around the world with his kind and simple words.

Let's walk through the cozy streets of Thessaloniki, quiet and beautiful in any weather, listen to the echoes of the millennia that have passed along them and get acquainted with the main attractions of the city, which warmly welcomes guests (especially from Russia).

Basilica of St. Dmitry

Saint Demetrius is considered the patron saint of the people of Thessaloniki. In his honor, a huge temple was erected in the center of the city - the main Christian shrine of the city, built on the ruins of old baths, where St. Demetrius was imprisoned, subjected to torment and suffered martyrdom. Here, in the northern nave, the shrine with his relics is kept. Thousands of parishioners and guests of the city put their notes with their most secret requests to the saint into the shrine.

The temple was consecrated in 413, survived almost half a century of Ottoman yoke, but in 1917 it was badly damaged by fire. Basilica of St. Dimitria took a very long time to be restored by a devastated country that had experienced a number of tragic events, and was only discovered in 1948.

The interior of the temple is decorated with marble tiles, stucco, mosaics, and columns. In the altar there are 6 mosaics that miraculously survived the fire. They depict St. Dmitry, surrounded by children.

In the catacombs under the temple there is a crypt, which in ancient times was part of a Roman bath, where St. Dmitry was tortured and executed. Currently there is a museum here, open to the public.
Venerating the relics of St. Demetrius the Myrrh-Streaming, having asked the priests for a little myrrh, having received the blessing of the patron saint of the city, it’s time to go further to get acquainted with the sights of ancient Thessaloniki.

Rotunda of St. George and the Arc de Triomphe Galerius

Rotunda of St. George and Triumphal Arch Gallery represent a single ensemble architectural structures and are located in Piazza Navarino, north of Ignatius Street.

The Arc de Triomphe was erected in 305 AD. e. in honor of the victory over the Persians. On the columns you can see relief images that represent scenes from the military life of Emperor Galerius.

The rotunda is a structure round shape large sizes, year of construction - 306 BC. e. There are two versions regarding the purpose of the building: according to one of them, the temple was built for the worship of Zeus, according to the other - as the mausoleum of Galerius. In the 5th century, the rotunda served as a Christian temple.

During this period, the interior decoration underwent some changes: the walls were inlaid with mosaics with biblical stories. During the period of Ottoman rule, the building turned into a mosque, and only after the liberation of Thessaloniki from Turkish occupation, the temple returned to its Christian purpose. Today, a museum is organized in the rotunda, but religious services are held there every month.

Square and statue of Aristotle

One of the most visited places in the city is the pedestrian street of Aristotle. Walking along the street, you can get to the square of the same name, where a monument to the great thinker stands.

It is impossible not to notice it, especially the big toe of the left foot, which simply shines in the sun as if filled with gold. Tourists and townspeople never forget to rub their finger - legend has it that this action can make any person smarter.

If you walk up the street from Aristotle Square, the road will lead you to the excavations of the Ancient Agora, which for three centuries was the center of ancient city.
And if you decide to follow the direction of the sea, your path will pass by the preserved building of the Turkish baths Bei Hamam and the Church of Our Lady of Chalkeon. Brick was used to build the church, which made it possible to create an extraordinary decorative effect in the form of pointed arches and jagged bands framing the structure. The church is included in the list World Heritage monuments of early Christian culture.

Ano Poly

Ano Poli is the upper town called local residents Kastra (Fortress). In this part of Thessaloniki, the old streets and neighborhoods have been preserved intact.

The masterpiece of architecture is the Byzantine walls with massive towers. Inside the fortress walls is the Seven Towers, which at first served as a Byzantine port, and later was a prison.

The Trigoniou Tower is adjacent to the Seven Towers; it was built in the 5th century and was used as an armory for several centuries. There is an observation deck next to the tower, from where you can endlessly revel in beautiful view to Thessaloniki and the Gulf.

Not far from the Byzantine walls rises the Vlatadon Monastery. It was built in the 4th century and dedicated to Christ the Almighty. According to legend, the monastery was built on the very spot where the Apostle Paul preached. As a result of the earthquake, the building was severely damaged and underwent significant reconstruction and reconstruction. The monastery church has been preserved intact, and all other buildings are new. Of the interior decoration of the temple, the frescoes dating back to the 4th century are especially interesting.

The upper town with all its historical buildings is included in the UNESCO heritage list.

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum is located in the city center, near the Thessaloniki promenade, a few hundred meters from the famous White Tower.

The main part of the exhibition is a collection of historical values ​​- objects found during excavations. Over 3 thousand years, the surrounding lands have accumulated so many valuables that, believe me, there is something to see in the museum.

In 1980, another hall was added to the museum building, where only luxurious gold jewelry of ancient Macedonia is displayed.

You can visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki from 10.00 to 17.00 on Monday, from 8.00 to 15.00 from Tuesday to Sunday. The cost of a regular ticket is 6 euros, a discounted ticket is 3 euros.

Byzantine Museum

Very close to the Archaeological Museum, at the intersection of Stratu and Third September streets, there is the Museum of Byzantine Culture.

Its huge 11 halls tell about all aspects of life in the Byzantine Empire.

Among the more than 2,500 exhibits are frescoes, ceramics, embroidery, mosaics, icons, manuscripts, textiles, and coins.

Icons from Holy Mount Athos are sometimes brought to the museum and this is the only opportunity for women to see ancient Christian shrines - only men are allowed to visit the Holy Mountain.

You can visit the museum from 8.00 to 15.00 from Monday to Sunday (November 1 - March 31); from 13.30 to 20.00 on Monday and from 8.00 to 20.00 on other days (on summer time of the year). A ticket for an adult will cost 4 euros, for students - 2 euros, children under 10 years old and students from EU countries can visit the museum for free.

White Tower

The famous White Tower of Thessaloniki is a symbol of a city that has suffered many bloody events. It was built by the Byzantines and served to protect coastal zone from sea raids.

The fort was destroyed by the Ottomans, and at the end of the 15th century they themselves rebuilt the Tower, surrounded it around the perimeter with stone walls and began to use it as a prison.

In 1826, after the demonstrative execution of all prisoners, without exception, killed by order of Sultan Mahmud II, the tower acquired sad fame and began to be called “Bloody”. The Tower received its name “White” in a completely prosaic manner in 1890 - it was whitewashed by one of the prisoners in exchange for freedom.

After a series of tragic events, almost 100 years later than in other parts of the country, in 1912 Northern Greece received its hard-won independence. And then, as a sign of liberation from the past terrible years, around the White Tower, the townspeople destroyed an eight-kilometer stone fence, leaving the terrible pages of occupation in the past forever, choosing the place of so many tears and pain as the main symbol of the legendary city.

You can visit the White Tower, where the Museum of History and Art of Thessaloniki is now located, on all days of the week from 8.00 to 15.00 (in winter); from 13.30 to 20.00 on Monday and from 8.00 to 20.00 on other days (in the summer). A ticket for an adult costs 3 euros, for students - 2 euros, for children and students from EU countries - free.

Thessaloniki. Quiet and gentle.

Neat tables await you in the narrow streets and the smell of freshly brewed coffee is so overwhelming that you can’t help but stop.

And every inch of land, every stone of the pavement whispers its amazing story to the guest.

Antiquity coexists peacefully with modernity, and the imprint of centuries is of such a high, purest standard that the heart skips a beat from the extraordinary opportunity to catch and feel this unhurried, measured step...

Thessaloniki was founded in the 3rd century BC. e. Since then, the city has repeatedly become the scene 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 here. The city's architectural heritage is priceless, despite the fact that the historical quarters were destroyed during a fire in 1917. The vast majority of the city's churches and monasteries from the Byzantine period are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Thessaloniki are popular resort Aegean Sea and cultural capital Greece. Local beaches marked " blue flag» for cleanliness, comfort and convenience for tourists. Throughout the year, the city hosts many colorful festivals and interesting events. Architectural monuments from 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 walks. Photos and brief description.

Presumably, the structure was erected in the 10th century, as evidenced by the surviving inscription on one of the walls. For centuries, the tower was part of the fortress fence, which separated residential areas from the cemetery. It reaches a height of 27 meters, the diameter of the ring of walls is 23 meters. In 1912, the building was painted white and given its current name. Today, the tower houses a museum.

The place where it all begins tourist routes Thessaloniki. The street is located on the site of 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. The shore is lined with a busy avenue and hotels. Bicycle paths and pedestrian alleys are equipped for tourists, as well as cozy green squares where you can take a break from the midday heat.

The central square of Thessaloniki, which finally took shape at the beginning of the 20th century, when the entire city underwent large-scale reconstruction after a fire. Concerts, holiday events, political rallies and other public events are constantly held here. On Aristotle Square there are monumental neoclassical buildings of the Electra Palace hotels and the Olympion cinema.

The monument is located on the city embankment in close proximity to the White Tower. Residents of Thessaloniki have a special relationship with the personality of Alexander the Great. It was during his reign that the city reached its maximum prosperity. The figure of the king sits on a rearing horse. On a wide pedestal behind the statue of the Macedonian there are mounted spears with shields on which symbolic images are applied.

The museum was opened in 1962 in a building designed by P. Karantinos. The exhibition covers a wide period of history of the region of Macedonia in general and the city in particular. Large quantity artifacts were 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 historical value.

The museum has been operating since 2000. The exhibition is located in a building from the early 20th century and is considered part of the collection of the Military Museum of Athens. It houses artifacts and documents relating to various events that took place in Greek history: the Balkan Wars, the Greco-Italian War, the Greek Revolution, the First and Second World Wars. The museum has a library where publications from the Greek Defense Ministry are stored.

The museum was established in 1994 under the authority of the Greek Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The exhibition, 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 safety reasons. The meeting returned to its place only several decades later.

The museum's collection 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 building of the 19th century, built in the neoclassical style according to the design of E. Ziller. Among the exhibits are weapons, personal belongings of the leaders of the struggle, books, newspapers, and valuable archival documents. The museum hosts group excursions and educational lectures.

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 mid-20th century. It was here that the reformer discussed ideas about a free democratic state with his associates. All furnishings, furniture, documents, personal belongings of Ataturk located in the building are authentic.

The museum was founded in 1978 in order to popularize scientific discoveries and research. The exhibition 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.

The exhibition opened in 2000 on the territory of a neoclassical building from 1904, which previously housed the Bank of Attica. The building miraculously survived 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 and 40s.

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 14th century, a mosque was located in the temple. Christian worship resumed at the beginning of the 20th century. During the fire of 1917, the building was damaged quite badly and was reconstructed by the 1950s. The relics of St. Demetrius of Thessalonica are kept in the temple.

Orthodox church listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is believed that the first basilica appeared on this site in the 5th century. In the 8th century, a building was erected that 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 Thessaloniki returned to Greece following the First Balkan War, the church was again transferred to the Christian community.

Orthodox monastery, founded in the 14th century with the active assistance of the Byzantine Empress Anna Palaiologos, who at that time settled in Thessaloniki. Main Cathedral The monastery is a magnificent architectural monument of the Byzantine era, which has survived several centuries and is preserved in excellent condition. The remaining buildings belong to later periods.

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, main temple Latomu was converted into a mosque under the Ottoman Turks and existed in this capacity until the beginning of the 20th century. During restoration work, frescoes from the 12th century were discovered under a layer of plaster.

The main cathedral of the Vlatadon monastery, dedicated to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker (Orphanos). The foundation of the temple dates back to the beginning of the 14th century. The interior wall paintings of the church are 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 included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a valuable monument of early Christian architecture.

A Byzantine temple from the 13th century, which is located in the center of Thessaloniki. It is surrounded on all sides by modern neighborhoods. 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 detracts from its architectural value. The interior has been lost and only a few original frescoes have survived.

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

An architectural monument of the Roman era, which is part of the funeral complex of Emperor Maximilian Galerius, who ruled in the 3rd-4th centuries. In the 5th century, the building was converted into a church, and since the 14th century there has been a mosque here. Only part of the stone wall with bas-reliefs and two arched passages has survived to this day. The Arch of Galerius is one of the most significant architectural monuments Thessaloniki.

An early 3rd century structure believed to have been built in honor of the pagan god Zeus. According to another version, this is memorial Complex Emperor Maximilian Galerius. In the 4th century, the building was converted into a church; in the 16th century, it was turned into a mosque for Sheikh S. H. Effendi. During the period 1912–1978. On the territory of the rotunda there was an exhibition of Byzantine and early Christian sculpture.

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

The northern part of the fortress was built in the 4th century under Emperor Theodosius I (according to an alternative version - in the 9th century), the southern part 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 archaeological excavations was completed.

The TV tower was erected in 1966 and reconstructed in 2005. The structure reaches a height of 76 meters. Inside, there is a panoramic restaurant on a rotating platform, which makes a full revolution around 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.

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

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 stop tourists from visiting it. The water park has eight slides, several swimming pools, bars, sports grounds, game Zone for children and equipped picnic areas.

Its population exceeds 1 million people. This dynamic city is the main one in the Macedonia region and is definitely worth a visit. Thessaloniki is famous for its numerous Byzantine church buildings, as well as sights from the Hellenistic and then Roman times. The Venetians and Turks left their mark on the architecture of the city. First things first.

Thessaloniki history.

The city was founded by Kasander in 316 BC. on the shores of the Gulf of Thermiakos, on the site of the ancient city of Therme, and is named after his beloved wife Thessaloniki, half-sister of Alexander the Great. At the beginning of the 2nd century BC. Thessalonica reached such prosperity that it received the right to mint its own coins. In 168 BC. Roman troops under the command of Lucius Aemilius Paulus defeated the Macedonian king and captured Thessalonica.

Thessaloniki history.

During Roman rule, Thessaloniki became one of the most important cities in Macedonia, which was facilitated by its favorable location at the intersection of sea and land routes. The wealth of the city attracted hordes of conquerors throughout the first millennium: the Huns, Visigoths, Avars, Slavs, Bulgars, Saracens, Normans - “everyone visited here.” And in the 16th century, the city was captured by the Ottomans, whose dominance lasted for several centuries. The Greeks returned the city only after the Balkan Wars in 1912-1913.

Attractions. Arch of Galerius.

Emperor Gaius Galerius Valerius Maximian, who chose Thessaloniki as the capital of his kingdom, built a triumphal arch (305 AD) to commemorate his victory over the Persian forces in AD. This was the largest expansion of the Roman Empire ever achieved in the east of the country. After the Turkish occupation, most of the arch was destroyed.

Roman forum.

The appearance of the early city was not preserved due to numerous reconstructions that occurred in Hellenistic times. So, on the site of the ancient agora, the Roman Forum was built. Taking into account the terrain, Roman city planners located the forum on two levels. The forum is designed in the form of two parallel squares surrounded by galleries. On the southern of them the famous two-tiered Gallery of Idols was built; Some of her statues are currently in the Louvre. Here, in the period from 293-305. Odeon appeared.

From the Middle Ages, we have reached us: the fortress dominating the city and the “seven-tower castle” - Eptapirgion, the remains of the city walls of Byzantine times and the “White Tower” near the embankment. Eptapirgion began to be built in the first years of the independent existence of the Eastern Roman Empire; it continued to be built and rebuilt until the Turkish conquest. IN late XIX centuries, the Turks turned the fortress into a prison; it was liquidated only in 1989.

White Tower.

Lefkos Pyrgos, or the White Tower - a symbol of the city, once guarded maritime boundaries Thessaloniki near the walls and towers built during the reign Ottoman Empire Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in 1530-1535. Initially, it was used as a barracks for sentries, and in subsequent years it served as a prison for prisoners awaiting their sentence, which was carried out right there, for which it acquired its second name: “Bloody Tower”.

For centuries, the tower was part of the old city walls, separating the Jewish quarter from the rest of the city. In 1866, the city walls were demolished as Thessaloniki was annexed to Greece. It was then that the tower was painted white, which was a gesture symbolizing “purification.” Today its color is rather gray, but the name remains the same. Currently, the tower houses an exhibition organized by the Museum of Byzantine Culture of Thessaloniki, which opened its doors after recent restoration.

"Rotunda".

The “Rotunda” is the round church of St. George, converted around 500 from an earlier Roman structure of unknown purpose into a temple. The temple was decorated with magnificent mosaics, which are among the oldest surviving ones. In 1590, the Turks turned the “Rotunda” into a mosque, and at the same time a minaret was added, which has survived to this day. In 1912, the Rotunda was returned to the Greek Church, but after 1920 the temple is used mainly as a museum.

Church of St. Demetrius.

The temple is a five-nave basilica without a dome, with a transverse nave and a gable roof. Magnificent mosaics of the 7th century have been preserved on the pillars of the temple; in the south-eastern part of the temple, frescoes created in 1303 have been preserved. Under the altar of the temple there is a place where, according to Christian legend, St. Dimitri. The temple is still in operation today; those interested can familiarize themselves with the collection of capitals, sculptures, parapets, and arks preserved from the times of the ancient temple.

Church of St. Sophia.

It began to be built in the 5th-6th centuries, and was completed in the 8th century. The temple is a transitional type: from a domed basilica to a cross-domed church; mosaics of the 9th century have been preserved in the interior. This church was from 1585 to 1912. was converted into a mosque. Pay attention to the foundation of the minaret, preserved in one of the corners of the church. In 1988 christian temple as part of the early Christian and Byzantine monuments of the city, it was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

From the centuries of Turkish rule, several mosques remain, the most interesting of which are Hamza Beisa (mid-15th century), also known as Alcazar, the Geni Mosque (1902; the archaeological museum was previously located here) and Aladza Imaret (1484). The hammam buildings and the rectangular building of the Bezesteni textile market, built in the 16th century, covered with sheet lead, have also been preserved.

Aristotle Square.

To get acquainted with the new architecture of Thessaloniki, we recommend visiting the seaside Aristotle Square with its monumental public buildings in the style of neoclassicism and architectural eclecticism. Some notable buildings include the traditional markets of Modiano and Luludadika, the monastery of the Order of the Sisters of Charity of St. Vincent, Palace of the Christian Brotherhood of Young Women of Thessaloniki, Palace of the Prefecture. Particularly worth mentioning is the Museum of Byzantine Culture, opened in 1995. It contains exhibits covering the time period from early Christianity to the Turkish conquest: icons, folding objects, small sculptures, frescoes, wood carvings, etc.

Thessaloniki – northern capital country famous for its busy streets, colorful nightlife and magnificent cultural heritage. We can say with absolute confidence that the charm of this city will not leave anyone indifferent, even the most discerning and demanding tourist.

Thessaloniki is a city of all seasons and all tastes. These are monuments of all historical periods: from Byzantine churches and castles to various ancient exhibits. In the city center, on the embankment, stands Belaya tower - symbol city, which once protected the city from invasions. Currently, it is a modern metropolis, which is an active commercial and cultural center not only of Greece, but also of the Balkan Peninsula.

Local industry is constantly developing, while trade is traditional strong point the city is thriving. IN last years, many international organizations establish their headquarters here. For more than three decades, the city has become a destination for many foreign tourists. His sea ​​port, Train Station and the airport are transit points on many routes, and play a huge role in the development of the city.

Thessaloniki is the city from which the journey around the country begins for vacationers at the mainland resorts of Greece. The largest international airport in Macedonia is located in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece with a population of over 1 million people and a convenient starting point for traveling around northern Greece.

When vacationing on the mainland, you cannot ignore the city itself. There is something you can and should see here, and getting here will not be difficult from almost any resort town.

So... What attractions are the city of Thessaloniki famous for?

The main and most important attractions of Thessaloniki, if desired, can be explored in one day and even without resorting to transport. Walking tour Walking along the ancient streets of the city will bring great pleasure and will allow you not only to see the places that the city residents are proud of, but also to get an insight into the life of the local population.

Sights of Thessaloniki - what is worth seeing?

Roman forum

In the historical center of the city there is one of the most significant attractions in the history of Greece - the Roman Forum. Naturally, you will only see the ruins of the forum, which until the 5th century AD. was considered the administrative center of Thessaloniki. Excavations that revealed the remains of the Roman forum were made in 1960. In its original form, the forum was a collection of various buildings: government offices, public baths, shops and various workshops. The total area occupied by such buildings was 2 hectares and had two levels: Upper (square) and Lower (semi-underground buildings) of the Agora. Today, this landmark of Thessaloniki is a kind of museum, open to the public after lengthy restoration work.


Arc de Triomphe and Rotunda

One of the attractions of Thessaloniki, partially preserved to this day, is the Arc de Triomphe and the Galeria Palace. The arch was erected back in 303 in honor of the victory over the Persians and had a connection in the form of galleries leading to the Galerius Palace, built not far from the arch. Everyone who comes near this architectural masterpiece notes the beauty of the structure: the columns of the arch are decorated with stone bas-reliefs, which reflect scenes from the Persian campaign of the ruler Galerius. The ruler's palace was only partially preserved; the walls of the building were badly damaged. According to one version this complex was the tomb of the emperor. There is an assumption that in the 5th century the palace or tomb became a church in the name of St. George the Victorious, which led to the appearance of a new name - the Rotunda of St. George.
In 1988, the Arch and the Galeria Palace were included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.


White Tower

The White Tower is considered one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city and is practically the “face” of Thessaloniki. For many, it remains a mystery why it is called White, because its color is far from snow-white shades. The tower currently has a color close to beige. The attraction is located on the shores of the Aegean Sea. In the past, the tower was erected by the Turks with the aim of using it as a defensive fortress and a prison, where many executions were carried out. The tower had a reputation for being "bloody". In 1912, in honor of the transition to Greek rule, the tower was whitewashed and restored, receiving the name “White Tower”. Currently, all the whitewash has been washed away and the tower has regained its original medieval appearance. This landmark of Thessaloniki is made in the shape of a cylinder with a diameter of 23 m and a height of about 30 m. The top of the White Tower is another smaller turret (its diameter is 12 m, height is 6 m). At the very top of the tower there is an observation deck, which offers a very beautiful view of the city and the sea. In 1985, a museum of the history and art of Thessaloniki from Byzantine times was opened in the Tower.


Basilica of St. Demetrius

Basilica of St. Demetrius - main church among the city's attractions. For the residents of Thessaloniki in the past, Saint Demetrius was the patron and protector of the city. The Great Martyr Demetrius was imprisoned in 303 by order of the ruler Galerius and executed. Pilgrims from all corners of the Byzantine Empire came to the patron’s grave. The church in honor of St. Demetrius was built on the site of destroyed Roman baths. The temple is located under the holy altar in the place where the basilica with the burial of St. Demetrius is located. The church has great architectural appeal both for the local population and for tourists from all over the world: marble cladding of the walls, decorated with frescoes and mosaics depicting St. Demetrius surrounded by children. In 1917, the building of the basilica was quite damaged during a fire, but the restoration work carried out made it possible to save some of it. architectural features- mosaics in the altar and on the upper part of the wall on the west side.


Archaeological Museum

In 1963, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki was opened, which became a landmark of the city. The pride of the museum is the collection of objects discovered during excavations right within the city of Thessaloniki and throughout Macedonia. The museum's halls display objects from periods throughout Macedonian history and artifacts made of real gold found in a cemetery near the museum's location. The most valuable collection of the museum, which occupies the central hall of the building, is the exhibition of treasures from the tomb of Philip II, who was the king of Macedonia at that time. The find was discovered in Vergina and dated 1978.


Church of St. Nicholas

Thessaloniki is a city where a huge number of churches have been built, and each of them can rightfully be called a landmark of the city. The Church of St. Nicholas occupies a special place among buildings of this type in Thessaloniki. In former times, the church was the main temple of the monastery, located in the upper part of the city. Research by modern archaeologists has shown that it was built with funds allocated by the Serbian king Stefan Milutin. The frescoes that adorn the church vaults date back to approximately 1320. The frescoes depict scenes from the Bible: the crucifixion of Christ and the trial of Pontius Pilate. The church got its name in honor of Nicholas Orphanos, which means “orphan” in Greek.


Upper City

At the highest point of the city of Thessaloniki there is another very popular attraction among tourists from all over the world, called the Upper Town. The upper part of the city is surrounded by Byzantine-era walls, which are listed on the map cultural heritage UNESCO. The Ano Poli district of Thessaloniki seems to be imbued with the spirit of the Byzantine era before Turkish rule. You can get here either by car or on foot from the city center. Throughout the entire journey the road goes up. Once in Ano Poli, you get the feeling that you are in a completely different world: the streets are narrow and winding, vineyards are blooming all around, and Greek music is muffled from the local cozy taverns. There are probably never enough people here, because this is the very place in the city that every vacationer must see. In the northern part upper city You can see the Trigoniou Tower, which until the 18th century was used as a warehouse for gunpowder and weapons. Next to this historical building there is an observation deck, which offers a breathtaking view of the entire city and the sea. On the inner site, surrounded by Byzantine walls, there is a fort that once served as a prison for a long time.


Embankment

From the Central Port to the White Tower stretches an embankment beloved not only by the local population, but also by vacationers, which has become a unique landmark of Thessaloniki. It is the embankment that is the starting point for exploring the main places of historical value in the city. The embankment offers a beautiful view of the bay. In clear weather, if you wish, you can see Mount Olympus in the distance. Walking along the pedestrian strip along the water's edge, you can see tourists of completely different nationalities leisurely strolling while waiting for a beautiful sunset.


Aristotle Square

The main square of Thessaloniki - Aristotle Square, can also be safely called a landmark of the city. This area- a favorite meeting place, especially in the evening, for friends, couples and city guests thanks to a huge number cafes and restaurants located here. This is where the city's concerts and events, political rallies and debates, and Christmas trees take place. Aristotle Square in Thessaloniki is famous for two buildings located on it: the building of the best 5* hotel in the city, Electra Palace, and the building of the Olympion cinema, which hosts annual world film festivals. A kind of “highlight” of the square was a bronze statue dedicated to the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. Legend has it that whoever rubs one of Aristotle's feet will become a little smarter. Everyone who finds themselves in the square does not forget to take a photo with the statue, having previously performed the actions proclaimed in the legend created by someone.

 

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