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Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki: A Timeless Fortress

Explore Thessaloniki's ancient defenses: Wander through history along the Byzantine Walls, offering stunning city views.

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The Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki, dating back to the late 4th century AD, stand as a testament to the city's rich history and strategic importance. Once stretching for 8 kilometers, these fortifications protected Thessaloniki for centuries, and today, visitors can explore the well-preserved sections and imagine the city's past.

A brief summary to Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

  • Elenis Zografou, Thessaloniki, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and optimal lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths along the walls can be uneven and steep.
  • Bring water and snacks, as amenities are limited, especially if exploring extensively.
  • Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance and architectural details of the walls.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Aristotelous Square, a central point in Thessaloniki, head north towards Egnatia Street. Walk east along Egnatia Street for approximately 1.5 kilometers. The Byzantine Walls will be located on your right, near the Egnatia 127 intersection. This walk offers a chance to see other city sights along the way.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center, take bus number 31 from Aristotelous Square. Get off at the 'Egnatia 127' stop. The East Byzantine Walls will be a short distance to your right. A single bus ticket costs €0.60 and is valid for 70 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Thessaloniki. Simply tell the driver to take you to 'Egnatia 127'. A typical short taxi ride within the city center will cost approximately €5-7 during the day. Be aware that fares may increase at night.

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Discover more about Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

The Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki offer a captivating journey through time, showcasing the city's resilience and historical significance. Constructed in the late 4th century AD, under Theodosius I, these walls incorporated earlier defenses to protect against invasions. Originally, the walls formed a trapezium shape, stretching approximately 8 kilometers and featuring a combination of rectangular towers and triangular bulwarks. Over the centuries, the walls underwent numerous modifications and repairs, reflecting the changing needs of the city. In the early Christian period, around the late 4th to early 5th centuries, Hormisdas led a major reconstruction effort. The walls were further strengthened in response to the Saracen capture of the city in 904 AD. During the Palaiologan dynasty in the 13th and 14th centuries, significant repair work was carried out. Even after the Ottoman conquest in 1430, the Turks recognized the walls' strategic importance and invested in their fortification. Today, approximately 4 kilometers of the walls remain, including sections of the Acropolis and the Heptapyrgion fortress. Walking along these ancient ramparts provides a unique perspective on Thessaloniki, with panoramic views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf. Key features include the Tower of Trigonio and the Gate of Anna Palaiologou. While the sea walls were largely demolished in the late 19th century, excavations continue to uncover remnants of this once-mighty barrier. A visit to the Byzantine Walls offers a tangible connection to Thessaloniki's layered past, inviting exploration and reflection.

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