One of my favorite Byzantine monuments in Thessaloniki is the church of the Holy Apostles. What makes it unique is the combination of gorgeous frescoes and mosaics; even though the latter, only fragments are preserved! The dedication to the 12 disciples of Christ is a modern invention because, according to some popular beliefs, the building should have had 12 domes! That is impossible, and there are only five domes.
The monument was a monastery church located near a gate of the western walls of Thessaloniki. It was founded by the Patriarch of Constantinople, Niphon I, around 1310-1314, as testified on the lintel of the entrance of the west and some monograms (schematic renderings of his name). The second founder, abbot Paul, who was Niphon’s disciple, is depicted kneeling before the enthroned Mother of God in the inner narthex (vestibule). At around 1520-1530, the church was turned into a mosque. The Ottomans' modifications caused serious damage to the interior decoration because they covered the sacred figures and scenes with plaster. However, that doesn’t undermine the importance and beauty of the monument. Make sure you also have a look at the exterior masonry with the various decorative patterns. You won’t regret it!
Olympou 1
€
free
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The iconostasis is just incredible! Pay attention to the dragons beneath the Cross on the top, they allude to the story of Prophet Jonah...
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The church itself is dated to ca. 1300. The masonry and arrangement of the exterior are some of the most beautiful in the entire city.
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The current edifice was built in 1727. On the same site, there had been a 12th-c. Byzantine monastery, also dedicated to the Virgin that burnt down around 1690.
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Even a tiny church in Thessaloniki can be a pearl! One of the smallest (if not the smallest of all) is the “Sotirakis” chapel. “Sotirakis” means little Sotiris.
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If you are an art lover, this is your spot! The core of Teloglion’s collection is that of Nestor and Aliki Teloglou, a couple passionate about art.
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The building was perhaps built in the middle or in the second half of the 14th century. That period was characterized by unprecedented artistic flourishing in the city.
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"Gorilas" in Thessaloniki is run by an expert, world-class bartender, so you know the drinks are tantalizing for the senses. Also: don't miss the brunch!
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"Massalia stin Thessaloniki" quickly became the talk of the town in 2014 when it opened. Today, this restaurant systematically exceeds my expectations.
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In front of the promenade of Thessaloniki, there are innumerable cafes. The presumable question that a visitor may have is: “Which one should I choose?”. I have the answer! Of course, “Castello”.
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The Chapel of Hosios David in the Upper City (Ano Poli) is dedicated to St. David of Thessaloniki, a monk who lived on an almond tree.
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"Mangiare Gastro Bar" in Thessaloniki is the city's first real Neapolitan pizza restaurant! My favorite is the Diavola. Do also try their cocktail list...
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"Psisou Sta Karvouna" is a fantastic gyros place in Thessaloniki. We're proud of our large gyros sandwiches, and this restaurant is no exception...
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95 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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✓ 95 Insider Tips from our local Spotters