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Heptapyrgion: Thessaloniki's Fortress Through the Ages

Explore Thessaloniki's historic Heptapyrgion fortress: a journey through Byzantine and Ottoman history with panoramic city views.

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The Heptapyrgion, also known as Yedi Kule, is a historic fortress in Thessaloniki's Acropolis, dating back to Byzantine and Ottoman eras. With its ten towers (despite its name meaning 'Fortress of Seven Towers'), it offers panoramic city views and a glimpse into Thessaloniki's layered past as a redoubt, garrison, and prison.

A brief summary to Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

  • Επταπύργιο, Eptapirgiou 130, Thessaloniki, 546 34, GR
  • +302313310400
  • Monday 8 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the fortress can be uneven.
  • Check for guided tours to gain deeper insights into the history of the site.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Thessaloniki.
  • Note that certain areas may be closed to the public for ongoing restoration work.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Aristotelous Square in the city center, walk to the bus stop at 'Aristotelous'. Take bus number 23 towards the walls. Get off at the 'Eptapirgiou' stop, which is the next stop after the bus passes through the Trigonion walls. Walk up Eptapirgiou Street for about 10 minutes to reach the Heptapyrgion. A single bus ticket costs €1.10.

  • Walking

    From Aristotelous Square, walk towards the waterfront promenade (Nea Paralia) and head east. Continue until you reach the 'Dikastiria' area. From there, walk uphill along Eptapirgiou Street. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi or ride-sharing service from anywhere in Thessaloniki. Input 'Heptapyrgion' or the address 'Eptapirgiou 130, Thessaloniki 546 34' into the app. The taxi ride from the city center should take around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The initial fare is €1.30, and the rate per kilometer is €0.74 during the daytime (5:00 am to 12:00 am) and €1.30 during the nighttime (12:00 am to 5:00 am).

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Discover more about Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

The Heptapyrgion, or Yedi Kule as it's known in Turkish, is a commanding fortress located on the northeastern corner of Thessaloniki's Acropolis in the Ano Poli (Upper Town). Its history stretches back over 1500 years, with construction and modifications spanning Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Despite its name, which translates to 'Fortress of Seven Towers,' the structure actually features ten towers, a detail that adds to its mystique. Originally built as a Byzantine fortification, possibly as early as the 4th century AD, the Heptapyrgion served as a crucial defensive point for the city. Its strategic location provided clear views of the surrounding land, making it an ideal spot to guard against invasions. After the Ottoman conquest in 1430, the fortress was rebuilt and expanded, becoming a key part of Thessaloniki's defenses and a residence for the city's military governor. In the late 19th century, the Heptapyrgion's role shifted dramatically when it was converted into a prison. This dark chapter in its history lasted until 1989, during which it housed political prisoners and became synonymous with harsh conditions, torture, and executions. References to the infamous Yedi Kule prison are abundant in Greek rebetika songs, reflecting its haunting legacy. Today, the Heptapyrgion is a historical site under the administration of the Greek Ministry of Culture. Restoration and archaeological work began in the 1970s and continue to this day, allowing visitors to explore its eerie ambiance and learn about its complex past. While some areas may be closed for restoration, the fortress offers a unique glimpse into Thessaloniki's history and stunning panoramic views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf.

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