The Allure of Ano Poli: Thessaloniki's Historic Heart

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Τι κάνετε;
  [Ti kanete?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalavaino]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε γιατρό!
  [Kaleste giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hafi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eimai arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agorasoo...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla koi tao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akri vo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na mi osete tin time?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (deka)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apogevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οχτώ
  [Ohto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για...)
  [Ena isitirio (gia...)]

Ano Poli, or Upper Town, has its roots in the Byzantine period, serving as a crucial defensive site due to its elevated position overlooking Thessaloniki. This neighborhood was fortified with walls built during the reign of Emperor Theodosius II in the 5th century, which helped protect the city from invasions and played a significant role during the Byzantine Empire's turbulent times.

During the Ottoman period, which began in the 15th century, Ano Poli became a vibrant neighborhood filled with a diverse population. The Ottomans constructed numerous mosques and public baths, many of which still stand today, showcasing the architectural blend of Byzantine and Ottoman styles. Important examples include the Vlatadon Monastery and the Ypapanti Church, which reflect the area's religious and cultural pluralism.

The Great Fire of Thessaloniki in 1917 devastated much of the city, but Ano Poli was largely spared due to its location on a hill. This event led to significant urban restructuring in the lower parts of the city while preserving the historical fabric of Ano Poli. The neighborhood became a refuge for those displaced by the fire, contributing to its unique character and community resilience.

In the decades following World War II, Ano Poli experienced a cultural revival as artists, musicians, and writers began to re-explore the neighborhood's rich history. This period saw the establishment of cultural festivals and events that celebrated the area's heritage, further cementing its reputation as a hub for Thessaloniki's artistic community.

Today, Ano Poli is recognized for its historical significance and charm. Efforts to preserve its unique architecture and cultural heritage have been implemented, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The neighborhood is now a vibrant blend of history and modernity, showcasing traditional tavernas, artisan shops, and stunning views of the city below, while maintaining its identity as one of Thessaloniki's oldest districts.

Ano Poli is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Thessaloniki. You can take bus lines 23, 31, or 33 from the city center, which will drop you near the entrance of Ano Poli. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi or a rideshare service, which offers a convenient way to reach the neighborhood directly. If you're feeling adventurous, walking up from the vibrant Aristotelous Square offers a scenic route that showcases the city's charm.

Ano Poli is a hilly neighborhood, making walking the best way to explore its narrow streets and historical sites. Public buses serve the area, but they may not be as frequent. Taxis are available, and some visitors choose to rent bicycles, though be prepared for steep inclines. Walking tours are also popular, led by local guides who can provide insight into the history and culture of the area.

Ano Poli is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it's wise to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and be cautious of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas. While crime rates are relatively low, it's advisable to stay informed about your surroundings and avoid areas known for higher crime rates, such as certain outskirts of the city.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are local hospitals and clinics available in Thessaloniki. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are plentiful and can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking; don't wear overly revealing clothing, especially near religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs; always cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly; don't use your phone loudly on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good Morning); don't interrupt when someone is speaking. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local cuisine at tavernas; don't waste food, as it is seen as disrespectful.

To experience Ano Poli like a local, visit the traditional coffee shops (kafeneia) where you can enjoy a cup of Greek coffee and engage in conversation with residents. Explore the hidden alleyways and discover street art that narrates the neighborhood's history. Don't miss the panoramic views from the city's walls, especially at sunset. Attend local festivals or events that showcase traditional music and dance for an authentic cultural experience.