Thessaloniki is a modern city, the second major economic, industrial, commercial and political centre in Greece. It was founded by Cassander, a Macedonian king in 315 bc and throughout the centuries it became a very important city. During Byzantine times it was the most important city in the Empire after Constantinople. Today it still is an important transportation hub for the Southeastern Europe because of its location and of the big commercial port. It may be not as famous as Athens but is also very appraised by visitors for its beautiful sites, shops, the sunny coastline and the friendly people. In 1997 the city was awarded as the "Cultural Capital of Europe", an event that boosted the citizens confidence and respect to the city's cultural offerings. Today the cultural infrastructure is modernized and expanded and offers a unique cultural experience to the visitors. In every corner of the city the visitor can see many archaeological monuments that reveal the city's history throughout the centuries.
One of the highlights of the city is the White Tower, which is located on the waterfront and was part of the city's walls. It was built in the fifthteen century and it was used as a prison during the Ottomans empire occupation in Greece. For several years it was called the "Bloody Tower" and we can easily imagine why. Today the Tower is a museum and the visitors can see the cells on its climb up. The view from the top is astonishing as it offers a 360 radius over the sea, as far as the eye can see. In the centre of Thessaloniki the visitor can also admire the Galerius' Arch. It was built to remind the Emperors victory over the Persians in 297 BC and it is a fine token of architecture. There are several carvings on the Arch celebrating the battles. The Arch is standing there for over two thousand years, surviving many earthquakes that destroyed much of the earlier city. Behind the Arch there's a huge circular stone structure with a round dome called the Rotunda. It is believed to have been Galerius' place of worship. In the fourth century it became a Christian church. This building is currently under massive restoration, but the visitors can go inside and see the monument.
The city is full of museums, such as the Archaeological Museum which contains treasures of the Hellenistic era and the era of Alexander the Great as well. The displays are very well presented with information for each item and where it was discovered. Another museum is the one of the Macedonian wars with information and displays of the area’s wars for 30 years before 1912. The Byzantine museum contains many relics from that period, including marble tombs featuring intricate carved reliefs. There are also several other museums, such as the folklore one, the cinema and theatre museum as well.
Another site that nobody can miss is the city's walls in the upper side of the city. Well preserved after all these centuries show another part of the city's history and offer a wonderful panoramic view of the city. At night you can see the city's walls from a distance since they are strategically illuminated. In the city there are also many old churches, the most prominent one the church of St. Dimitrios, a five-aisled basilica monument which is still used nowadays as a church. Fragments of sculptural decoration and many mosaics and beautiful wall paintings can be seen inside the church.
Beyond the historical sites, there are several other places in Thessaloniki that are worth seeing. Such a place is the Modiano market, a hall of clamouring vendors and stalls with meat, fish and vegetables. Modiano is one of the oldest markets of the city and near it there are several taverns and coffee shops where visitors can taste the Greek cuisine and the famous ouzo as well.
The city is also a shoppers delight. The streets of the city are lined with designer shops, art galleries, gift shops, high-fashion boutiques, jewel and craft studios that will satisfy even the most demanding visitor.
The city is also famous for the many restaurants and taverns where someone can taste the Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. The renovated district of Ladadika, in the centre of the city, the seafront along Krini or Kalamaria the city walls area, are only a few of the places full of picturesque taverns and restaurants which offer a unique atmosphere. Also there are several restaurants in the suburbs of the city near the sea, such as Ag. Triada, Perea, Michaniona. The city is also only an hour’s drive from Chalkidiki, famous for the beautiful coasts and beaches.
There are several cultural events in the city during the year such as the Jazz festival, the open-air theatrical festivals, the film festival and Dimitria, a two month event full of theatrical, music dance and film performances.
The city also hosts a number of exhibitions, the largest one the International fair, held in September with over 300000 visitors and many participations from several countries. Also there are several conferences organized in the city, since it has the infrastructure and many 4 and 5 star hotels with conference facilities. In general, this city is the perfect place to do business and have a good time.
The city is also famous for its nightlife with many night clubs, bars, cafes and restaurants available in many parts of the city, which stay open till the early hours.
Thessaloniki has relatively mild winters and marvellous springs and autumns, making it an ideal place to visit throughout the year.
Though being the second biggest city of Greece with increasing economic and industrial power, the city still keeps its local colour and habits, making it an ideal place to visit either for business of pleasure.
Contact information
TCVB Thessaloniki Convention and
Visitors Bureau
40, Metropoleos str
546 23 Thessaloniki, Greece
tel: +30 2310 277953
fax: +30 2310 277983
web: www.tcvb.gr
email: info@tcvb.gr