Thessaloniki

1. White Tower

• What is the White Tower of Thessaloniki?
  • Perhaps the most easily recognizable landmark in the city, the White Tower is a six-story structure that dates back to the 15th century.
• What purposes has the White Tower served over the years?
  • The tower has been used for multiple purposes, including:
  • Defense – A key fortification for the city.
  • Imprisonment – It once held prisoners during Ottoman rule.
  • Storage of important antique artifacts – A repository for historical treasures.
• What is the White Tower used for today?
  • Today, it functions as a museum and cultural site for the public.
• What can visitors see inside the White Tower?
  • The exhibitions inside detail the city's history from its founding in 315 B.C. to the present.
  • Each of the six floors explores a different theme related to Thessaloniki’s past.
• What special experience does the White Tower offer visitors?
  • Visitors can climb to the top-floor balcony to enjoy a stunning view of the city.

Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece

2. Ladadika

• What is the Ladadika district?
  • Ladadika is a vibrant area in Thessaloniki, known for its traditional Greek food and lively atmosphere.
• What was Ladadika originally known for?
  • The area was formerly one of the city's most important olive oil markets.
• Why is Ladadika a popular destination today?
  • It is now a popular gathering place that stays busy until dawn.
• Where is Ladadika located?
  • The district is conveniently located next to the port of Thessaloniki.
• What can visitors find in Ladadika?
  • The area is overflowing with bustling restaurants, taverns, and bars that attract both tourists and locals.
• What makes Ladadika a great place for a stroll?
  • The district's narrow cobblestone streets are restricted to pedestrian use only.
  • They offer excellent opportunities for a leisurely stroll and beautiful photos while deciding where to eat.

3. Ataturk Museum

• What is the Ataturk Museum?
  • The Ataturk Museum is a historical museum dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.
• Why is the Ataturk Museum significant?
  • The museum is located in the house where Atatürk was born, making it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in 20th-century history.
• When was the building converted into a museum?
  • The building was converted into a house museum in 1953.
• How much does it cost to visit the Ataturk Museum?
  • Visitors can explore all three stories of the museum free of charge.
• What are the highlights of the museum?
  • The highlight of the home is the room where Atatürk was born.
  • Other points of interest include the elegant first-floor reception room and the beautiful courtyard, which features a pomegranate tree planted by Atatürk's father.
• What can visitors expect to see inside the museum?
  • Most of the original furniture remains in place.
  • Many rooms display interesting artifacts from when Atatürk’s family lived in the home.

Apostolou Pavlou 17, Thessaloniki 546 34, Greece, Phone: +30-23-10-24-84-52

4. Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

• What is the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki?
  • The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is one of the largest and most important museums in Greece.
• What time period do the museum’s artifacts cover?
  • The museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts dating as far back as the 7th century B.C.
• Where do most of the artifacts come from?
  • Most of the items are from the city of Thessaloniki itself.
  • Some artifacts have also been collected from the surrounding region.
• What are some of the most popular collections?
  • A fascinating exhibition on prehistoric Macedonian life, complete with ancient skulls.
  • A display of artifacts from Macedonian tombs.
  • A collection of beautiful mosaics.
• Does the museum offer any additional amenities?
  • After exploring the exhibits, visitors can enjoy a drink or a snack at the museum’s café.
  • The café is located next to the peaceful gardens, offering a relaxing break.

Manoli Andronikou 6, Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece, Phone: +30-23-13-31-02-01

5. Museum of Byzantine Culture

• What is the Museum of Byzantine Culture?
  • The Museum of Byzantine Culture is an excellent place to learn about the customs, art, and architecture of the Byzantine period.
• Why is Thessaloniki known for its Byzantine history?
  • Thessaloniki is well known for its Byzantine character, with a rich history that makes the museum a must-visit destination.
• What can visitors see in the permanent section of the museum?
  • The permanent section consists of eleven thematic exhibits that explore topics such as:
  • Burial customs of the Byzantine period.
  • The world of business and trade in Byzantine times.
• Does the museum feature temporary exhibitions?
  • Yes, visitors will also have the chance to see temporary exhibits that explore various aspects of other cultures and societies.
• Are there interactive features at the museum?
  • Some exhibits include audiovisual elements and interactive touchscreens to enhance the visitor experience.
• Are guided tours available?
  • Yes, guided tours are included in the price of admission.

Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece, Phone: +30-23-13-30-64-00

6. Olympic Museum of Thessaloniki

• What is the Olympic Museum of Thessaloniki?
  • Formerly known as the Athletic Museum of Thessaloniki, the Olympic Museum of Thessaloniki was given its current name after being officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee in 2008.
• How is the museum organized?
  • The museum consists of four separate halls:
  • Three halls are dedicated to permanent exhibitions.
  • One hall is used for displaying temporary exhibits.
• What kind of exhibits can visitors see?
  • Many exhibits display Olympic-related memorabilia, including:
  • Medals won by athletes.
  • Torches used in past Olympic Games.
  • Personal belongings donated by Olympians.
• Are there any interactive exhibits?
  • Yes! The museum features unique interactive exhibits, such as a track and field simulation that allows visitors to experience athletic competition.
• What additional amenities are available at the museum?
  • Visitors can take a break and explore the museum’s gift shop and cafeteria.

3is Septemvriou, Thessaloniki 546 36, Greece, Phone: +30-23-10-96-85-31

7. Church of Agia Sofia

• What is the Church of Agia Sofia?
  • Modeled after a church in Istanbul that shares its name, the Church of Agia Sofia is a beautiful historic building in Thessaloniki.
• When was the Church of Agia Sofia constructed?
  • The church was constructed in the 8th century.
• What religious purposes has the Church of Agia Sofia served?
  • Over the centuries, the church has served as both a Christian church and a mosque.
• What makes the interior of the Church of Agia Sofia special?
  • Although the exterior is relatively simple, the inside is highly elaborate.
  • The church’s dome features a stunning 9th-century mosaic depicting the Ascension.
  • The space is illuminated by twinkling chandeliers filled with candles, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.
• Are visitors allowed to take photos inside the Church of Agia Sofia?
  • Taking photos is not permitted, but visitors are welcome to walk through the church and marvel at its beauty.

Agias Sofias, Thessaloniki 546 22, Greece, Phone: +30-23-10-27-02-53

8. Temple of Osios David

• What is the Temple of Osios David?
  • Perched on a hill overlooking Thessaloniki, the Temple of Osios David was built in the 5th century and remains one of the city’s best-kept secrets.
• What religious functions has the Temple of Osios David served?
  • Over the years, the temple has served as a mosque and as part of a monastery.
  • Today, it functions as a Greek Orthodox church.
• Why is it worth visiting the Temple of Osios David?
  • Although it is located a bit outside the city center, it is worth the visit for its:
  • Stunning panoramic views of Thessaloniki.
  • Beautiful Byzantine interior, decorated with historic artwork.
• What makes the interior of the church special?
  • The simple yet elegant Byzantine interior is adorned with:
  • Magnificent frescoes from the 12th to 14th centuries.
  • Stunning mosaics that highlight the artistic heritage of the period.

Epimenidou 17, Thessaloniki 546 33, Greece, Phone: +30-23-10-26-13-76

9. Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace

• What is the Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace?
  • Established in 1973, the Folk Art and Ethnological Museum of Macedonia and Thrace is a fascinating museum dedicated to the cultural heritage of the region.
• Where is the museum located?
  • The museum is housed inside the historic Old Government House, a remarkable four-story building.
• What is the history of the Old Government House?
  • The building was constructed in 1905 as a private seaside residence for a local banker.
• How many artifacts are in the museum’s collection?
  • The museum is home to an impressive collection of approximately 15,000 historical objects collected from Macedonia and Thrace.
• What types of artifacts are displayed?
  • The collection includes a wide variety of historical objects, such as:
  • Musical instruments
  • Weapons
  • Hand-woven textiles
• How are the artifacts presented?
  • The artifacts are displayed in themed exhibits designed to introduce visitors to various aspects of pre-industrial life.

Filippou Nikoglou 1, Thessaloniki 546 42, Greece, Phone: +30-23-10-88-98-40

10. Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki

• What is the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki?
  • Founded to represent and honor the city’s rich Jewish heritage, the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki presents an excellent array of exhibits.
• What time period does the museum cover?
  • The exhibits tell the story of the city’s Jewish residents from the 16th century to the end of World War II.
• What can visitors see on the bottom floor of the museum?
  • The bottom floor houses a collection of tombstones from a Jewish graveyard outside the city walls.
  • It is accompanied by a series of photos showing the cemetery as it was in 1914.
• What does the second floor of the museum feature?
  • The second floor contains exhibits filled with historical artifacts and memorabilia related to the Jewish community of Thessaloniki.
• Does the museum cover the Holocaust?
  • Yes, there is a dedicated section that explores the Holocaust as it was experienced in Thessaloniki.

Agiou Mina 11, Thessaloniki 546 24, Greece, Phone: +30-23-10-25-04-06