Was fortunate enough to go on an exciting trip to Thessaloniki, and what to see in this second largest Greek city do not know? We assure you, you will not have to search here, because the sights in Thessaloniki are everywhere!
Temples and cathedrals
Acquaintance with the ancient Greek city begins with an inspection of the temple of Dimitry of Thessalonica, which is the largest in Thessaloniki. He rises on the spot where in the past there was an ancient dungeon. Here the famous martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica, an officer of the Roman army, died. This magnificent structure is located not far from the amphitheater of the Agora.
Take into account that this cathedral belongs to the active ones, therefore, divine services are held here very often. For visitors, the doors of the Cathedral of St. Demetrius of Thessalonica, of course, are open, but do not bother with your cameras and exclamations of admiration of believing parishioners.
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No less striking is the view of the Temple of St. Sophia in Thessaloniki, which is an exceptionally rare example of the Cathedral of the iconoclastic period. In the architecture of this three-nave cruciform temple there are features of the basilica and Orthodox typical buildings.
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If there is enough time to get acquainted with the city, visit the church of St. Panteleimon and the temple of Saint Nicholas Orfanos. These architectural sites with centuries of history are part of the World Heritage since 1988.
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Architectural forms of Ancient Greece
Near the temple of Dimitry of Thessalonica you can see the remains of the Roman Forum (Ancient Mountain). Buildings related to the construction of the II century, were scientists discovered only in 1960. Since 2003, after the restoration, a museum has been opened here. The parts of the wall surrounding the Forum and the Odeum Theater were best preserved.
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The symbol of Thessaloniki can be called the White Tower, built during the Turks in 1430. Originally conceived as a defensive structure, the tower was later rebuilt into a garrison with prison cells. Until 1866, the glory of the building was horrific - there were mass executions there, and joining to Greece "whitened" the tower in all senses. Today there is a multimedia modern museum of Byzantium with a 35-meter observation platform.
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Near Kamara is another attraction of Thessaloniki - the massive Rotunda, which originally served as a mausoleum for the Romans, then Christians for the church, and for the Turks - a mosque. The interior of the circular structure is decorated with early Christian mosaics, and the only minaret in Salonika is preserved from the outside. Today works here as a museum, opened in 1999 after the restoration of the Rotunda.
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Interesting places
At Aristotle's Square, dotted with concert venues, restaurants, shops and cafes, there is a monument to this thinker who, according to local custom, gives people wisdom. For this it is necessary to rub a finger on the foot of the stone philosopher.
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Thessaloniki opened the Archaeological Museum, which is considered the best in Greece. Its huge and rich collection of unique exhibits includes samples of art and finds, dating back to the Neolithic and Iron Age! The exhibition is divided into five thematic sections, which tell the history of prehistoric Macedonia, the birth of cities, Thessaloniki, modern Macedonia, and also reveal the secrets associated with the gold of Macedonia.
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And do not forget to try original and memorable dishes of national cuisine: Greek salad, Saganaki mussels, psitto psitto, Kalamarju, which local chefs cook simply amazingly!
Even one, but very full of emotions and impressions of the day spent in Thessaloniki, will be enough for you to never erase those history-impregnated edges from memory.