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Palace of Galerius: A Glimpse into Roman Thessaloniki

Explore the ruins of Emperor Galerius's palace in Thessaloniki, a window into Roman history and architectural splendor.

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Explore the ruins of the Palace of Galerius in Thessaloniki, a significant Roman-era complex built in the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD by Emperor Galerius. Once the administrative and religious center of the city, the palace offers a glimpse into Roman grandeur and the transition to Byzantine influence.

A brief summary to Palace of Galerius

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces while exploring the ruins.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, especially during holidays.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Palace of Galerius is located in Navarinou Square in the city center, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. If you are near the Arch of Galerius (Kamara), walk south along Dimitriou Gounari street towards the sea. Navarinou Square will be on your left. The entrance to the Palace is located at the end of the square. Walking from Aristotelous Square will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Head east towards Egnatia Street, then turn left and walk towards Navarinou Square. The Palace will be on your right. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    Thessaloniki's public transportation system, OASTH, provides bus service to Navarinou Square. Several bus lines stop near the Palace of Galerius. Check the OASTH website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. The new Thessaloniki Metro also has stations within walking distance. Get off at the Agias Sofias station and walk east towards Navarinou Square. A single urban bus or metro ticket costs €0.60 and is valid for 70 minutes of travel within the urban zone. Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines or at various points of sale throughout the city.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Thessaloniki. You can find taxi stands at major transportation hubs like the airport, train station, and port, as well as in central locations like Aristotelous Square. A taxi ride from the Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to the Palace of Galerius will cost approximately €25-€35, depending on the time of day. A taxi from the train station to the Palace will cost around €5-€7. Within the city center, a short taxi ride should cost around €5. Keep in mind that taxi fares are metered, with a base fare of €1.80 and a per-kilometer rate of €0.90 during the day and €1.25 at night. Booking a taxi in advance may incur a dispatch fee.

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Discover more about Palace of Galerius

The Palace of Galerius, located in the heart of Thessaloniki, stands as a testament to the city's rich Roman past. Built by Emperor Galerius in the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD, the palace was part of a larger complex that included the Triumphal Arch (Kamara), the Rotunda, and the Hippodrome. Galerius chose Thessaloniki as his seat after defeating the Persians, aiming to make it the administrative center of the eastern Roman Empire. Covering an area of approximately 150,000 square meters, the palace complex was an impressive display of Roman architectural opulence. Excavations have revealed remnants of vast courtyards, monumental entrances, and sophisticated living quarters. Visitors can explore the remains of the Atrium, arcades, and a basilica, complete with marble floors and intricate mosaics. The Octagon, believed to be the throne room, features exquisite white and colored marble tiles. Today, the Palace of Galerius stands as an open-air archaeological museum in Navarinou Square, offering a glimpse into the daily life and grandeur of Roman Thessaloniki. Although much of the complex is buried due to the reconstruction of the city center, the visible remains provide a tangible link to the past. The site is easily accessible and surrounded by a vibrant neighborhood with cafes and shops, making it an ideal stop for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

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