Rotunda of Galerius

Thessaloniki

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Rotunda of Galerius

Unique in Greece, the Rotunda is a cylindrical building from the early 4th century AD. The mosaics inside are really impressive. The Rotunda is a massive circular structure (built in 306 AD) with a masonry core. Through its long history, it has gone through multiple periods of use and modification as a polytheist temple: a Christian basilica, a Muslim mosque, and a Christian church once again. A minaret is preserved from its use as a mosque, and ancient remains are exposed on its southern side. Some Greek publications claim it is the oldest Christian church in the world! These days, the Rotunda is primarily an archaeological site, where visitors can see some remaining Christian mosaics and feel the weight of history.

Useful Information

Address: Platia Ayios Yioryos, Thessaloniki
Phone: +30 2310 204 868
More Info: odysseus.culture.gr/h/2/eh251.jsp?obj_id=1812
Address: Wed–Mon 8am–8pm, Tue closed
More Info: d854b8651528a07e9f8737d6ca727fd1da71afde

Do & See

Thessaloniki is home to numerous historic sights, including The White Tower, once a part of the ancient walls that protected the city. The romantic alleyways and streets make Thessaloniki a perfect destination for romantics and explorers of all ages.

White Tower

The White Tower is the most iconic symbol of the city. The tower was constructed by the Ottomans sometime in the early 15th century and once guarded the eastern end of the city's sea walls. In the 19th century, this tower was used as a notorious prison. Nowadays, it is a welcoming museum …

Explore the Halkidiki Region

Explore the Halkidiki Region

The region of Halkidiki lies southeast from Thessaloniki. It is known for its jutting peninsulas, Mediterranean forests and sandy beaches in warm, sheltered bays. The region is often described as having three 'legs' — Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos peninsulas. Kassandra, the westernmost peninsula, is the most developed, offering modern resorts and nightclubs. Sithonia, also known as …

Heptapyrgion of Thessalonica

Heptapyrgion of Thessalonica

While exploring the historic Ano Poli — the Old City or Upper Town — you will stumble upon the old city wall and the Heptapyrgion. It is a Byzantine and Ottoman-era fortress. You can pay to see the renovated interior part, which used to serve as a prison in 1890–1990. It's not a must …

Waterfront & Boat Rides

Waterfront & Boat Rides

Thessaloniki's waterfront is a long boardwalk that stretches about 4.5 km, all the way from the First Pier to the Thessaloniki Concert Hall. Enjoy a stroll, a jog or a a bike ride, ideally in the morning or closer to sunset. You'll make your way past the Ladadika district, the White Tower and Alexander …

Mount Olympus

The mythical Mount Olympus can be seen on the horizon from the waterfront in Thessaloniki. Many visitors choose to spend a day on a trip to the ancient Dion and Mount Olympus. You'll see the Dion Archaeological Park with city ruins dating from the 6th century BC and the most important spot in Greek …

Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

The Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki presents the history of Sephardic Jews and Jewish life in the region after the 15th century. It is one of the rare Jewish buildings that survived the fire of 1917. The museum is subdivided into several sections, where you can see the photo exhibit “Thessaloniki, Sephardic Metropolis", appreciate religious artefacts …

Atatürk Museum

Atatürk Museum

The Atatürk Museum is the birthplace of the founder of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk — "Father of the Turks", who was born here in 1881. It is a three-storey house with a courtyard, complete with original furniture. Any missing items were replaced with items from Kemal's mausoleum and from Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. Naturally, …

MOMus — Thessaloniki Museum of Photography

MOMus — Thessaloniki Museum of Photography

MOMus Museum of Photography is currently housed in Warehouse A at the Port of Thessaloniki, next to the Cinema Museum of Thessaloniki. The museum's mission is to collect photographs, especially historical and artistic photographs of Greece. The venue regularly holds exhibitions and events, publishes books on photography. Check MOMus website for latest exhibition …

Ladadika Quarter

Ladadika Quarter

The narrow pavements and neoclassical buildings of Ladadika host plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes and cute boutiques. The area from Salaminos street to YMCA Park is known as Ladadika Quarter. This is an old quarter that starts at the waterfront and goes a few blocks inland up to Tsimiski Avenue that is busy with international …

Markets — The Old & The New

Markets — The Old & The New

Exploring local markets is an excellent way to discover the city's culture. Foodies will appreciate seasonal fruits and veggies, regional cheeses and street food. Additionally, you can find anything from modern necessities of life to artisanal handmade cosmetics. Here are some of the main markets you should check out: Kapani Market — the oldest open …

Aristotelous Square

Aristotelous Square

Aristotelous Square is the most impressive square in Thessaloniki. It features buildings with monumental architecture inspired by European and colonial models, cafes, shops and restaurants. It is the focal point in big celebrations, such as the coming of the New Year, and is the de facto meeting place during the day. The history of Aristotelous …

Rotunda of Galerius

Rotunda of Galerius

Unique in Greece, the Rotunda is a cylindrical building from the early 4th century AD. The mosaics inside are really impressive. The Rotunda is a massive circular structure (built in 306 AD) with a masonry core. Through its long history, it has gone through multiple periods of use and modification as a polytheist temple: a …

Arch of Galerius (Kamara)

Arch of Galerius (Kamara)

In addition to The Rotonda, this is one of the two most characteristic monuments in town. The Galerius arch is situated close to the eastern city wall, a short distance from the Kassandreotiki gate. The 4th-century AD Roman emperor Galerius commissioned both structures to show off his power. A road used to run through the …

Saint Dimitrios Church

Saint Dimitrios Church

The church of the patron saint of the town is a must see in Thessaloniki. The first church of Saint Dimitrios was built in 313 AD. Twice destroyed by fire, the most modern version was completely rebuilt in 1948 according to the original …

Museum of Byzantine Culture

Museum of Byzantine Culture

In Thessaloniki, said to be the most 'Byzantine' city of the modern Greek state, you will find this unique museum showcasing everyday life during the Byzantine and post-Byzantine period, as well as the era's legacy in modern society. Don't miss the museum cafe after your …

Archaeological Museum

Archaeological Museum

Built in 1962 but newly refurbished, this museum provides numerous updated exhibitions. You can easily spend hours here, losing yourself in magical Macedonian gold artefacts and antique …

Ancient Agora — Roman Forum

Ancient Agora — Roman Forum

The Ancient Agora and the Roman Forum — two names, same place. Right in the city centre, you will find this important and fascinating archaeological site, which once was the roman heart of the ancient city. It was first built in the late 2nd century AD and was dug up by accident in the …

Agia Sophia Church

Agia Sophia Church

Built as a miniature of the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople in the 7th century, the cathedral contains beautiful Byzantine frescoes and mosaics. Agia Sofia is one of the oldest churches in the city still standing today and is included as a World Heritage Site on the UNESCO …

OTE Tower — Skyline cafe-bar

OTE Tower — Skyline cafe-bar

OTE Tower is a 76-metre-tall whimsical tower located within the Thessaloniki International Exhibition Center. In addition to being a gleaming monument to 60s design, the tower is also home to a revolving Skyline cafe-bar. The venue operates year-round, offers coffee, signature drinks and a small selection of small bites. After dark, there is live piano …

Noesis — Science Center & Technology Museum

Noesis — Science Center & Technology Museum

The Noesis is a welfare, non-profit cultural and educational foundation that promotes Technological Culture to kids and adults. The centre is divided into sections: the main exhibition, planetarium and simulator. Noesis caters to a diverse audience. Some will be excited by the classic cars exposition. Interactive science exhibits are a must. The Ancient Greek science …

Statue of Alexander The Great

Statue of Alexander The Great

Be sure to snap a selfie with Alexander III of Macedonia on a rearing horse! This modern statue of one of the most famous and influential Ancient Greeks mounted on Bucephalus, his famous horse, overlooking the Thermaic Gulf at …

Zeitenlik

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Pasha Gardens

The Pasha Gardens is a little-known gem near the old town of Thessaloniki. Half-demolished whimsical ruins are spread across the garden, granting it an air of mystery — it is no surprise numerous myths and fables have stemmed from here. The park's imaginative, Gaudí-esque architecture centres around an ornate fountain encircled by a tunnel …

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