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Holy Church of Hagia Sophia: Thessaloniki's Byzantine Masterpiece

Explore Thessaloniki's Holy Church of Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Byzantine art and a rich, transformative history.

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The Holy Church of Hagia Sophia in Thessaloniki, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the city's rich Byzantine history. Built in the 7th century on the site of a former basilica, it mirrors the architectural style of Istanbul's Hagia Sophia and features stunning mosaics, reflecting centuries of religious and political change.

A brief summary to Holy Church of Hagia Sophia

  • Monday 7 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-9 pm
  • Friday 7 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-9 pm

Local tips

  • Note the strict dress code: shorts and sleeveless garments are not permitted.
  • Visit during the Feast of the Universal Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross on September 14th for a special celebration.
  • Explore the Agia Sofia Square surrounding the church, a historically significant area in Thessaloniki.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Holy Church of Hagia Sophia is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most central areas of Thessaloniki. From Aristotelous Square, walk north along Aristotelous Street, then turn left onto Ermou Street. The church is located at the corner of Agias Sofias and Ermou Streets, approximately a 10-15 minute walk. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the city center and stop near the Holy Church of Hagia Sophia. Look for buses with routes going to 'Kentro' or 'Platia Aristotelous'. Check the OASTH (Thessaloniki Urban Transport Organization) website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single urban bus ticket costs €0.60 and is valid for 70 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Thessaloniki. You can hail a taxi from the street or use the Free Now app. A short taxi ride from the White Tower or the train station to the Holy Church of Hagia Sophia will typically cost around €5.

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Discover more about Holy Church of Hagia Sophia

The Holy Church of Hagia Sophia, dedicated to Holy Wisdom, is one of Thessaloniki's oldest and most important churches. Located in the city center, at the intersection of Agias Sofias and Ermou streets, it attracts visitors with its rich history and spiritual significance. The church's origins trace back to the 3rd century, with the current structure dating from the 7th century. It was erected on the site of a large, early Christian five-aisled basilica that was destroyed, likely by an earthquake, in the 7th century. The present-day church was modeled after the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, showcasing typical mid-Byzantine architecture. Throughout its history, the Hagia Sophia has undergone numerous transformations, reflecting Thessaloniki's turbulent past. During the Venetian rule (1204–1224), it was briefly converted into a Catholic church. Following the Ottoman conquest in 1430, it became a mosque until Thessaloniki's liberation in 1912, when it was rededicated as a Christian church. The church suffered damage from fire in 1890 and earthquakes, including a significant one in 1978, leading to various restoration efforts. The interior boasts impressive mosaics and frescoes, with the mosaic in the dome depicting the Ascension of Christ being particularly noteworthy. The apse once featured a plain gold mosaic with a large cross during the Iconoclastic period, later replaced with an image of the Theotokos. Today, visitors can admire the blend of Byzantine architectural elements and the serene atmosphere of this active place of worship.

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