Background

Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki: A Historical Fortress

Explore Thessaloniki's ancient fortifications: the Byzantine Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site with centuries of history and stunning city views.

4.9

The Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki, dating back to around 390 AD, are a testament to the city's rich history and strategic importance. Once stretching for 8 kilometers, these walls protected the city from invaders for centuries and offer visitors a glimpse into Thessaloniki's Byzantine past.

A brief summary to Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

  • Elenis Zografou, Thessaloniki, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths along the walls can be uneven and steep in places.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photography.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby, especially if you plan to explore extensively.
  • Take time to appreciate both the historical importance and architectural details of the walls.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Aristotelous Square, a central point in Thessaloniki, head north towards Egnatia Street. Continue east for approximately 1.5 kilometers. You'll pass shops and cafes along the way. The East Byzantine Walls will be located on your right, near the Egnatia 127 intersection.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center, take bus number 31 from the Aristotelous Square bus stop. Get off at the 'Egnatia 127' stop. Walk a short distance to your right, and you will find the East Byzantine Walls directly ahead. A single bus ticket costs €1.20.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Thessaloniki. Simply tell the driver to take you to 'Egnatia 127'. The East Byzantine Walls are a well-known landmark. The minimum taxi fare is €3.40, with an additional charge of €0.78 per kilometer.

Unlock the Best of Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

The Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki stand as a powerful reminder of the city's long and storied past. Constructed around 390 AD, these fortifications were built to protect Thessaloniki from various threats, including barbarian invasions and sieges. The walls incorporated elements of earlier Roman fortifications, showcasing the city's continuous strategic importance throughout history. Originally, the walls stretched for approximately 8 kilometers, forming a trapezoidal shape that encompassed the city and its acropolis. The structure included a combination of ashlar masonry and brick bands, punctuated by towers and gates. Over time, the walls underwent numerous repairs and modifications, reflecting the changing needs of the city's defense. Today, about 4 kilometers of the walls remain, including sections around the Acropolis and the Heptapyrgion fortress. Visitors can explore these surviving sections, walking along the ramparts and admiring the panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf. The walls provide a tangible link to the Byzantine era, offering a unique perspective on the city's cultural heritage. While some sections of the walls were demolished in the late 19th century to allow for urban expansion, the remaining portions have been preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Exploring the Byzantine Walls offers a chance to connect with Thessaloniki's past and appreciate the resilience of this historic city.

Popular Experiences near Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

Popular Hotels near Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki

Select Currency