Key Landmarks
- The City Walls and Acropolis: Visitors entering Thessaloniki would first notice the imposing city walls. The Acropolis, atop a hill overlooking the city, housed fortifications and perhaps a few administrative buildings or residences.
- The Rotunda: Originally built in the early 4th century as a Roman mausoleum or temple, by 1423 the Rotunda had been converted into a Christian church. Its massive dome and circular structure made it a prominent architectural marvel.
- The Church of Hagios Demetrios: The city's patron saint, Saint Demetrios, was honored in this large basilica, known for its beautiful mosaics and religious relics. It was the spiritual heart of Thessaloniki and a destination for pilgrims.
- The Agora (Marketplace): The bustling marketplace was filled with merchants selling textiles, spices, jewelry, and everyday goods. It was the economic center where different cultures met.
- Jewish Quarter (Romaniote Jews): Thessaloniki was home to one of the oldest Jewish communities in Europe. The Romaniote Jews had lived in the city since Roman times, and their quarter was an integral part of the city’s cultural tapestry. shutdown123