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Heptapyrgion Fortress: Thessaloniki's Historic Guardian

Explore Thessaloniki's Heptapyrgion Fortress: A journey through Byzantine and Ottoman history with panoramic city views from its ancient walls.

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The Heptapyrgion, also known as Yedi Kule, is a Byzantine and Ottoman-era fortress offering panoramic views of Thessaloniki. Once a defensive stronghold and later a prison, it stands as a testament to the city's layered past, with its ten towers and well-preserved walls echoing centuries of history.

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Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during the summer months.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the fortress can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf.
  • Check for guided tours to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
  • Note that certain areas may be closed for restoration purposes.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Aristotelous Square, walk to the bus stop at 'Aristotelous' and take bus line 23 towards the walls. The bus runs approximately every 20 minutes. Get off at the stop in front of Heptapyrgion, after the bus passes through the Trigonion walls. A single bus ticket costs around €1.00.

  • Walking

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

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Consider taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing app for a more convenient option. 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 conditions. Expect to pay around €6-11 for a 5-10km trip from the city center. Be aware that taxi fares may vary.

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The Heptapyrgion, or Fortress of Seven Towers (though it actually has ten), is a historic fortress located on the northeastern corner of Thessaloniki's acropolis in the Ano Poli (Upper Town). Its strategic position has made it a pivotal landmark throughout the city's history. Originally built in the Byzantine era, possibly as early as the 4th century AD, the fortress has undergone numerous expansions and renovations, particularly during the Ottoman period after their conquest in 1430. The name Heptapyrgion, and its Ottoman Turkish equivalent Yedi Kule, both mean "Fortress of Seven Towers," although the structure features ten towers, a detail that adds to its mystique. The fortress served as a major defensive structure for the city and later as a military residence and garrison. In the late 19th century, the Heptapyrgion was converted into a prison, a function it maintained until 1989. This period of its history is marked by harsh conditions and served as a place of confinement for political prisoners and revolutionaries. Today, the fortress is a historical site under the administration of the Greek Ministry of Culture, with ongoing restoration and archaeological work. Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and exhibition halls, experiencing the echoes of its storied past. The fortress also offers panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking to connect with the city's cultural heritage.

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