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Ancient Agora Square: Thessaloniki's Roman Heart

Explore Thessaloniki's Ancient Agora: a vibrant center of Roman history, culture, and architecture, located in the heart of the city.

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The Ancient Agora Square in Thessaloniki is a significant historical site that served as a bustling marketplace and the center of commercial, political, and social activities during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Constructed in the 2nd century BC, it was where merchants, artisans, and citizens gathered to trade goods and engage in civic life. Visitors can explore the restored ancient amphitheater (Odeion), Corinthian columns, Roman baths, and well-crafted mosaic floors.

A brief summary to Ancient Agora Square

Local tips

  • Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photos.
  • The site is closed on Tuesdays.
  • Consider purchasing a combined ticket for multiple archaeological sites and museums in Thessaloniki.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Ancient Agora is located in the city center, just north of Aristotelous Square. From Aristotelous Square, walk north towards Egnatia Street. Turn left onto Egnatia Street, then turn right onto Aristotelous Street. Continue walking north, and the Ancient Agora will be on your left, bordered by Olympou and Filippou streets. There is no cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    Thessaloniki has a comprehensive public bus system. Many bus lines run through Egnatia Street, which is a short walk from the Roman Forum. Bus lines include 2, 2A, 8, 10, 11, 11B, 14, 17, 22, 27, 27A, 28B, 31, 37, 78N, 83, 83B, 83M, 83T. Get off at a stop on Egnatia Street near Aristotelous Street and walk north. The cost for a single bus fare is approximately €0.60.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Thessaloniki. You can hail a taxi on the street or find them at taxi ranks. A short taxi ride from Aristotelous Square or the White Tower to the Ancient Agora will typically cost between €5 and €10, depending on traffic and the time of day.

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Discover more about Ancient Agora Square

The Ancient Agora, also known as the Roman Forum, is located in the heart of Thessaloniki and represents the city's Roman past. Discovered in the 1960s during excavations, this two-hectare site was once the administrative and public center of ancient Thessaloniki. Built in the late 2nd century AD, it was constructed on the site of a former forum dating back to the early Imperial period. The complex features a rectangular paved square surrounded by stoas and public buildings. Key features include a restored amphitheater (Odeion) used for musical performances and gladiatorial contests, Corinthian columns, and mosaic floors. The southern stoa includes a cryptoporticus, a double subterranean arcade that once housed shops. The site also contains remains of a mint and bathhouse. Visitors can explore the ruins and a small museum displaying artifacts found on-site. The museum provides insights into the history of the Agora and its significance in ancient Thessaloniki. The Odeon is still used for summer concerts. Until the 19th century, a series of statues of the Muses, known as the Incantadas, stood at the southeastern entrance. These statues are now located in the Louvre Museum.

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