Heptapyrgion Fortress: Thessaloniki's Towering Sentinel

Explore Thessaloniki's historic Heptapyrgion Fortress, a Byzantine and Ottoman-era landmark with stunning views and a chilling past as a notorious prison.

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Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

The Heptapyrgion, also known as Yedi Kule, is a historic fortress in Thessaloniki, Greece, with a rich and complex past. Originally built during the Byzantine era and later modified by the Ottomans, it has served as a defensive stronghold, a military garrison, and a prison, offering panoramic views of the city.

A brief summary to Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

Επταπύργιο, Eptapirgiou 40, Thessaloniki, 546 34, GR
+302313310400
Visit website

Monday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
Thursday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
Friday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
Saturday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
Sunday 8:30 am-3:30 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the fortress can be uneven.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf.
Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary.
Be aware that certain areas may be closed for restoration purposes.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Aristotelous Square, a central point in Thessaloniki, take bus number 23. The bus runs approximately every 20 minutes from the central bus stop between Aristotelous Square and the harbor. The bus will pass through one of the gates in the Trigonion walls, and the next stop is right in front of the Heptapyrgion. A single bus fare costs €1.10.
Walking

From Aristotelous Square, walk towards the waterfront promenade (Nea Paralia) and head eastwards until you reach the 'Dikastiria' area. From there, continue walking uphill along Eptapirgiou Street. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Thessaloniki. Simply enter 'Heptapyrgion' or the address 'Eptapirgiou 40, Thessaloniki' into the app. A taxi ride from the city center typically takes 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).

Discover more about Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

The Heptapyrgion, or Fortress of Seven Towers (though it actually has ten), stands as a powerful reminder of Thessaloniki's layered past. Perched on the northeastern corner of the city's acropolis in the Ano Poli district, this Byzantine and Ottoman-era fortress has dominated the skyline for centuries. Its strategic location provided clear views of the surrounding land, making it a crucial defensive point throughout Thessaloniki's history. Originally constructed during the Byzantine era (330 AD to 1453 AD), the fortress was rebuilt by the Ottomans after their conquest of the city in the 1400s. The name Heptapyrgion, meaning "Seven Towers," is somewhat misleading, as the fortress actually features ten towers, each added at different times throughout its history. These towers and the connecting walls formed a formidable defense system, protecting the city from invaders. Over the centuries, the Heptapyrgion has served various purposes. Initially, it was a vital part of the city's defenses, acting as a garrison and a safe retreat for the population during sieges. After the Ottoman conquest, it became a military residence and housed approximately 300 troops. However, by the 19th century, its military significance declined, and it was converted into a prison. As a prison, the Heptapyrgion, or Yedi Kule as it was known by then, gained a notorious reputation. It housed political prisoners during some of the most turbulent periods in Greek history, including the fascist dictatorship, the Nazi occupation, the Greek Civil War, and the military junta. The prison operated until 1989, and stories of the harsh conditions and brutal treatment of inmates continue to haunt the site. Today, the Heptapyrgion is a historical site under the administration of the Greek Ministry of Culture. Restoration and archaeological work have been ongoing since the prison's closure, and visitors can now explore the fortress and experience its eerie atmosphere. Walking through the narrow corridors and past the locked iron doors of the cells offers a chilling glimpse into the past. The panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf from the fortress walls are simply spectacular.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Τείχη Ακροπόλεως

0.2 km

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

Anna Palaiologina Gate – Trigonio

0.4 km

Explore Thessaloniki's Byzantine past at the Anna Palaiologina Gate, a historic portal offering a glimpse into the city's medieval defenses.

Portara (Main Gate)

0.4 km

Explore Thessaloniki's ancient past at the Portara, a historic gate offering stunning city views and a glimpse into Byzantine architecture.

Acropolis Walls

0.6 km

Explore the ancient Acropolis Walls in Sykies, a historic defense structure offering panoramic views of Thessaloniki and a glimpse into the city's past.

Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

0.7 km

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

Gate on city old wall

0.8 km

Explore a historic gate in Thessaloniki's ancient fortifications, a testament to the city's rich Byzantine past and enduring cultural heritage.

Οικία Ντίνου Χριστιανόπουλου

1.2 km

Discover the enchanting Oikia Ntinou Christianopoulou, a historical landmark in Thessaloniki showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Athanasios Diakos Bust

1.4 km

Explore Thessaloniki's rich heritage at the Athanasios Diakos Bust, a remarkable memorial honoring a hero of Greece's War of Independence.

Ancient Agora Square

1.5 km

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

Hellenistic Baths

1.5 km

Explore Thessaloniki's ancient past at the Hellenistic Baths, a window into daily life in the Hellenistic era.

Agias Sofias

1.5 km

Explore Thessaloniki's Agia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing stunning Byzantine art, architecture, and centuries of religious history.

Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Acheiropoietos

1.5 km

Explore Thessaloniki's Byzantine past at the Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Acheiropoietos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning mosaics and architecture.

Holy Church of Saint Nicholas Tranos

1.6 km

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of this stunning Greek Orthodox church in the heart of Thessaloniki, a true Byzantine gem.

Column of the Snakes

1.8 km

Discover the Column of the Snakes in Thessaloniki, a vestige of Roman grandeur and a silent keeper of the city's historical secrets.

Palace of Galerius

1.8 km

Step back in time and explore the ruins of Emperor Galerius' Palace in the heart of Thessaloniki, a window into the city's Roman past.

Unmissable attractions to see

Acropolis of Thessaloniki

0.1 km

Explore Thessaloniki's ancient Acropolis: a historic landmark with stunning views, rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, and the imposing Eptapyrgio fortress.

Old town panorama terrace

0.4 km

Breathtaking panoramic views of Thessaloniki's historic Old Town, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the city's rich past.

Trigoniou (Chain) Tower

0.4 km

Explore Thessaloniki's Trigoniou Tower: a historic fortress with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Thermaic Gulf.

The Peach House

0.6 km

Discover Thessaloniki's historic charm at The Peach House in Ano Poli, where culture, beauty, and panoramic views await.

Vlatadon Monastery

0.7 km

Discover Thessaloniki's Byzantine past at the Vlatadon Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views and rich history.

Latomos Monastery - Holy Church of Hosios David

0.8 km

Discover the beauty and tranquility of Latomos Monastery in Thessaloniki, a historic gem showcasing Byzantine art and spiritual heritage.

Latomos Monastery - Holy Church of Hosios David

Holy Church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos

0.8 km

Discover Thessaloniki's hidden gem: a 14th-century Byzantine church with stunning frescoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a serene escape.

Città antica di Tessalonica

0.9 km

Discover Thessaloniki's ancient heart: Explore cobblestone streets, Byzantine churches, and panoramic views in the captivating Città Antica.

Byzantine Bath of Thessalonica

0.9 km

Explore a rare example of Byzantine bathing culture in Thessaloniki's Upper Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with centuries of history.

Municipal Zoo of Thessaloniki

1.1 km

Discover local wildlife in a natural setting at Thessaloniki's Municipal Zoo, a family-friendly destination for education and recreation.

Atatürk Museum

1.1 km

Explore the birthplace of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey, in this historic Thessaloniki museum.

Viewpoint

1.3 km

Capture breathtaking panoramic views of Thessaloniki from the serene Sikies Viewpoint, a perfect spot to admire the city and its natural surroundings.

Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica

1.3 km

Explore the stunning Byzantine mosaics and historical crypt of Thessaloniki's Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica

Rotunda

1.4 km

Explore Thessaloniki's iconic Rotunda: a journey through Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history, adorned with stunning mosaics.

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

1.5 km

Explore Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, a cultural landmark embodying education and history in Greece's second-largest city.

Essential places to dine

Ouzeri to Yenti

0.0 km

Discover Ouzeri to Yenti in Thessaloniki for an unforgettable experience of traditional Greek flavors and warm hospitality.

Koukida Fun-Seafood

0.5 km

Discover the taste of Greece at Koukida Fun-Seafood in Thessaloniki - where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.

Wall by Wall

0.6 km

Experience authentic Greek flavors at Wall by Wall, a Mediterranean gem in Thessaloniki offering delicious tapas and traditional dishes.

Konaki

0.7 km

Savor authentic Greek cuisine at Konaki - a culinary treasure in Thessaloniki offering delightful dishes in a warm atmosphere.

Igglis

0.7 km

Discover the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Igglis in Thessaloniki – where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.

Η στάση (συνεργατικόν καφενείον)

0.8 km

Discover authentic Greek flavors at Η στάση in Thessaloniki - where every dish tells a story.

Nea Folia

1.1 km

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Nea Folia in Thessaloniki – where every dish tells a story!

Phiskárdo

1.1 km

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Phiskárdo in Thessaloniki - where fresh ingredients meet culinary tradition.

Tsinari tavern

1.2 km

Discover Tsinari Tavern in Thessaloniki: A must-visit for authentic Greek cuisine and unforgettable dining experiences.

Prytanio

1.2 km

Discover authentic Greek flavors at Prytanio, a top-rated restaurant in Thessaloniki offering delightful dishes in a warm ambiance.

Το Πρυτανείο

1.2 km

Discover the rich flavors of Greece at Το Πρυτανείο in Thessaloniki - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Oinohoos

1.2 km

Experience traditional Greek flavors at Oinohoos in Thessaloniki—where every dish tells a story.

Mourga

1.4 km

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Mourga in Thessaloniki – where tradition meets taste in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Daisi Restaurant

1.5 km

Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Daisi Restaurant in Thessaloniki, where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Κιβωτός των Γεύσεων

1.5 km

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Κιβωτός των Γεύσεων in Thessaloniki – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Explore GECKO in Thessaloniki for unique gifts and local crafts that perfectly encapsulate Greek culture and artistry.

Ostia Boutique

1.8 km

Discover the latest trends in women's fashion at Ostia Boutique in Thessaloniki, where style meets elegance in a unique shopping experience.

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Thessaloniki at Lipuu Bar, where locals and visitors gather for drinks, snacks, and unforgettable experiences.

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Thessaloniki at AMOR Nightclub, where unforgettable moments await in a vibrant atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Heptapyrgion Fortress: Thessaloniki's Towering Sentinel

A brief summary to Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-share

Unlock the Best of Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Τείχη Ακροπόλεως

Anna Palaiologina Gate – Trigonio

Portara (Main Gate)

Acropolis Walls

Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

Gate on city old wall

Οικία Ντίνου Χριστιανόπουλου

Athanasios Diakos Bust

Ancient Agora Square

Hellenistic Baths

Agias Sofias

Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Acheiropoietos

Holy Church of Saint Nicholas Tranos

Column of the Snakes

Palace of Galerius

Unmissable attractions to see

Acropolis of Thessaloniki

Old town panorama terrace

Trigoniou (Chain) Tower

The Peach House

Vlatadon Monastery

Latomos Monastery - Holy Church of Hosios David

Holy Church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos

Città antica di Tessalonica

Byzantine Bath of Thessalonica

Municipal Zoo of Thessaloniki

Atatürk Museum

Viewpoint

Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica

Rotunda

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

Essential places to dine

Ouzeri to Yenti

Koukida Fun-Seafood

Wall by Wall

Konaki

Igglis

Η στάση (συνεργατικόν καφενείον)

Nea Folia

Phiskárdo

Tsinari tavern

Prytanio

Το Πρυτανείο

Oinohoos

Mourga

Daisi Restaurant

Κιβωτός των Γεύσεων

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

ATELIEANASTASIA

TILT! gifts

V for Vintage

IXNK ΕΙΚΟΝΕΣ - ΑΓΙΟΓΡΑΦΙΕΣ

Oldd Fashion - Vintage Clothing

hatch.gr

Vaudeville Room

ANTIQUE MARKET

Loko's

FETOKIS DIMITRIOS

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Merci Boutique

It's All Greek On Me

GECKO

Ostia Boutique

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Castra- All Day Terrace Bar

Le Coq tail mix bar

Beer Fabrica