Background

Apsidal Hall: Echoes of Imperial Thessaloniki

Explore the Apsidal Hall in Thessaloniki: A journey into Roman history and architectural splendor in the heart of the city.

4.4

The Apsidal Hall, part of the Galerian Palace complex, offers a glimpse into Thessaloniki's Roman past. Built in the early 4th century AD, this historical landmark showcases the architectural grandeur of the era with its impressive design and remnants of intricate mosaics.

A brief summary to Apsidal Hall of the Galerian Complex

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Combine your visit to the Apsidal Hall with a stroll through the nearby Galerian Palace remains to fully appreciate the historical context.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you may want to explore the surrounding archaeological sites.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Apsidal Hall is located at Dim. Gounari 38 and is easily accessible on foot from many central Thessaloniki locations. From Aristotelous Square, walk north on Aristotelous towards Egnatia, turn right onto Egnatia and then left onto Dim. Gounari street. Continue walking for about 200 meters. The Apsidal Hall will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the area around the Apsidal Hall. You can take bus number 2, 3, or 5 and get off at the bus stop at the intersection with Dim. Gounari Street. From there, walk approximately 100 meters down Dim. Gounari Street, and you will find the Apsidal Hall on your left. A single bus ticket costs €0.60.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Thessaloniki. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Apsidal Hall will typically cost around €5-€7.

Unlock the Best of Apsidal Hall of the Galerian Complex

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Apsidal Hall of the Galerian Complex

The Apsidal Hall of the Galerian Complex stands as a significant historical site in the heart of Thessaloniki, Greece. Constructed in the late 3rd to early 4th century AD, during the reign of Caesar Galerius Valerianus Maximianus, the hall was an integral part of the Galerian Palace complex, which marked a pivotal moment in the transition from the Roman to the Byzantine world. Galerius chose Thessaloniki as the seat of the eastern part of the Roman Empire, and the complex served as an imperial residence and a symbol of the city's prosperity during Roman rule. Originally, the Apsidal Hall likely functioned as a *triclinium*, a formal dining hall used for ceremonial banquets and events involving the emperor and his court. The hall's architecture resembled a basilica with a rectangular structure and an apse on its northern side. Inside, two interconnected chambers were lavishly decorated with white and colored marble, and the floors featured geometric designs made of multi-hued marble tiles. A hypocaust system provided heating, and remnants of this system are still visible today. The walls were adorned with mosaics, some bearing Latin inscriptions. Excavations in the 20th century unearthed significant remains of the Galerian Complex, including the Apsidal Hall. Today, visitors can explore the partially retained structure and view remnants of its interior ornamentation, including wall mosaics and marble tile flooring. The site also features an information center with exhibits, videos, and interactive applications that provide insights into the palace complex's original configuration. The Galerian Complex received an award from the European Union and Europa Nostra in 2008 for its exceptional restoration and conservation efforts.

Popular Experiences near Apsidal Hall of the Galerian Complex

Popular Hotels near Apsidal Hall of the Galerian Complex

Select Currency