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Latomos Monastery (Holy Church of Hosios David)

Discover Byzantine art and serenity at the Latomos Monastery, a 5th-century Thessaloniki treasure with stunning mosaics and a peaceful atmosphere.

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The Latomos Monastery, also known as the Holy Church of Hosios David, is a significant early Christian monument in Thessaloniki, Greece. Dating back to the 5th century, it features stunning Byzantine architecture, intricate mosaics, and a serene atmosphere. The church is renowned for its well-preserved mosaic of the Vision of Ezekiel and its historical importance.

A brief summary to Latomos Monastery - Holy Church of Hosios David

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting; avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.
  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the charming Upper Town (Ano Poli).
  • Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the mosaics and frescoes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Latomos Monastery is located in the Upper Town (Ano Poli) of Thessaloniki, which is accessible by foot from the city center. From Aristotelous Square, walk north towards Egnatia Street. Continue uphill, following the signs for Ano Poli. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes and offers scenic views of the city. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several buses connect the city center to Ano Poli. Check the OASTH (Thessaloniki Urban Transport Organization) website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single bus ticket costs €0.60 and is valid for 70 minutes. From a central location like Aristotelous Square, take a bus heading towards Ano Poli and disembark at a stop near the monastery. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Thessaloniki. A taxi ride from Aristotelous Square to the Latomos Monastery typically costs around €5-€7, depending on traffic and time of day. The base fare is €1.30, and the daytime rate is €0.74 per kilometer. During nighttime hours (00:00 to 05:00), the rate increases to €1.30 per kilometer. The ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

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Discover more about Latomos Monastery - Holy Church of Hosios David

Nestled in Thessaloniki's Upper Town (Ano Poli), the Latomos Monastery, formally known as the Holy Church of Hosios David, offers a serene escape into Byzantine artistry and spirituality. Constructed in the late 5th century, this small, square church originally served as the main church of the Latomos Monastery. The monastery gets its name from the stone quarries ('latomeia' in Greek) that were once located in the area. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning mosaic of the Vision of Ezekiel in the sanctuary's conch, dating back to the 5th-6th century. This rare and well-preserved mosaic depicts Christ Emmanuel, surrounded by prophets and symbols of the Evangelists. The church also features fragments of 12th-century frescoes, showcasing the prosperity of hagiographic art in Thessaloniki during the mid-Byzantine period. These frescoes depict scenes such as the Nativity and the Baptism of Christ. During the Ottoman period after 1430, the church was converted into a mosque, and its Byzantine decorations were plastered over. The mosaic was rediscovered in 1921 when the city was liberated and the monument was returned to Christian worship. Today, the Latomos Monastery stands as a testament to Thessaloniki's rich religious and artistic heritage, inviting visitors to explore its hidden beauty and connect with its profound history.

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