Yannis Divramis 
Nestled in the charming upper town of Thessaloniki, Agios Nikolaos Orfanos is a small early fourteenth-century church that captivates visitors with its rich history and exquisite art. Despite its modest exterior, the church is celebrated for its remarkable interior, featuring one of the most complete cycles of Palaiologan wall paintings in the city. Over 180 … Read more
The Church of the Holy Apostles, known locally as Agioi Apostoloi, stands as a testament to Thessaloniki’s rich Byzantine heritage. Constructed in the early fourteenth century during the Palaiologan period, this architectural marvel was originally the katholikon of a monastery founded by Patriarch Niphon. Its design features a cross-in-square layout, crowned by five domes, and … Read more
Panagia Acheiropoietos stands as a testament to early Christian architecture in the heart of Thessaloniki. This basilica, constructed in the fifth century, is among the city’s oldest churches that remain in continuous use. Its name, meaning ‘made without hands’, refers to a miraculous icon of the Virgin. Visitors are drawn to its three-aisled timber-roofed structure, … Read more
Agia Sofia in Thessaloniki stands as a testament to Byzantine architectural prowess. This eighth-century church, dedicated to the Holy Wisdom of God, mirrors its namesake in Constantinople. With a distinctive domed basilica design, Agia Sofia blends the early basilica with the later cross-in-square style. The church’s mosaics, including the Ascension of Christ and the Virgin … Read more
Bey Hamam, also known as the Paradise Baths, is a remarkable Ottoman bathhouse located on Egnatia Avenue in Thessaloniki. Constructed in the mid-fifteenth century by the order of Sultan Murad II, it stands as the first and largest Ottoman hammam in the city. The bathhouse features separate sections for men and women, each with a … Read more
Vlatadon Monastery, perched high in Thessaloniki’s upper town, offers a unique blend of history and spirituality. Founded in the fourteenth century, it is closely linked with the theologian Gregory Palamas. The monastery holds an important place in the city’s religious and cultural landscape. As a UNESCO-listed site, it showcases remarkable Palaiologan wall paintings within its … Read more
The Church of Profitis Ilias, a late-Byzantine architectural marvel, stands proudly in the upper town of Thessaloniki. Built on the Athonite triconch plan, it features a central nave flanked by two semicircular apses. This fourteenth-century structure, associated with the Nea Moni monastery, showcases exquisite banded brick-and-stone masonry and a towering central dome. Recognised as a … Read more
Panagia Chalkeon, also known as the Church of the Virgin of the Coppersmiths, stands as a testament to the Byzantine heritage in Thessaloniki. Founded in the eleventh century by the Byzantine official Christophoros, this brick-built church is famed for its decorative architecture and historical significance. The church’s name is derived from the coppersmiths’ bazaar that … Read more
Osios David, the katholikon of the former Latomou Monastery, stands in the historic Ano Poli district of Thessaloniki. This small Byzantine church, part of the UNESCO-listed Palaeochristian and Byzantine Monuments, is renowned for its rare late-antique mosaic depicting the Vision of Ezekiel. The mosaic features a youthful, beardless Christ Emmanuel, surrounded by four living creatures … Read more
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, transforms into a lively hub during the summer months. The city’s energy peaks as locals and tourists alike explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal views. The bustling waterfront promenade comes alive with music, food vendors, and social gatherings, offering a perfect setting for enjoying warm evenings. As the … Read more
The Pieria Riviera, also known as the Olympian Riviera, is a captivating destination just a short drive south of Thessaloniki. This scenic coastline stretches along the Thermaic Gulf, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the sun-kissed beaches of Paralia Katerini and Olympiaki Akti to the historic Platamonas Castle, the … Read more
Thessaloniki, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is home to a dynamic street art scene. The former textile quarter of Valaoritou and the lanes off Ladadika have become canvases for artists. Large murals coexist with stencils and paste-ups, transforming urban spaces into open-air galleries. The regeneration of Valaoritou into a hub … Read more