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Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki houses exhibits from the four most archaeologically significant historical periods of Thessaloniki, as well as other regions of Macedonia.
The museum’s collection includes items from the Roman, Classical, Archaic and Hellenistic periods. However, some find it ironic that the building is built in a modern Greek architectural style.
The museum focuses on historical aspects, as well as how the people of ancient Macedonia used gold to adorn themselves. Since Thessaloniki is a prehistoric city, you will also find a section in the museum that tries to recreate the Thermaic Gulf, which existed before the city itself.
Aristotle Square
Although most parts of Aristotle Square were recreated in the 1950s, such as the cinema and the Electra Hotel, it was originally designed in 1918 by the French architect Ernest Herbart.
The square marked a sharp transition from the unplanned, busy and narrow streets that had been created during the centuries of Ottoman expansion to the more modern layout designed by Hebrar.
The completion of the square occurred shortly after the fire of 1917, marking a dramatic change in the archaeological evolution of the city.
Today, the square serves as the site of many civic gatherings and parties.
Arch of Galerius
The Kamara or Arch of Galerius is without a doubt the most recognizable Roman structure in Thessaloniki. It is considered one of the most popular landmarks in the area along with the White Tower.
The Emperor Galerius was the one who commissioned the construction of the arch as a triumphal monument to celebrate the victory over the Sassanids in 298 AD, as well as the fall of the capital Ctesiphon.
The Arch of Galerius originally had four secondary and four primary pillars. Only one of the secondary and two of the primary columns survive to this day. However, visitors still have the opportunity to admire the intricately carved battle scenes on the surviving columns of the arch.
Rotunda
The oldest landmark in Thessaloniki is none other than the Rotunda. It is a massive circular structure that was once a Roman temple, a church for Christians, and eventually a mosque.
The Rotunda’s walls are over 20 feet high, allowing the structure to withstand earthquakes. The cylindrical structure was built by order of Galerius, the Roman emperor, in 306 as part of a massive palace complex. The structure was built as a sanctuary or mausoleum for the emperor.
Before the site was conquered by the Ottomans, the Rotunda served as a church for over 1,200 years. In 1590, the church of Agios Georgios was converted into a mosque. The good news is that the mosaics have stood the test of time so well that they were not damaged further and were simply painted over. Today, the Rotunda serves as a museum, as it houses three different faiths.