I am emotionally connected with this church because I was baptised, took the patron saint's name, and still attend services here. It’s one of the most historic churches in Thessaloniki, but unfortunately, not even my fellow citizens are aware of that, let alone visitors of the city. It is not known when exactly the first building was constructed. However, during the Ottoman period (1430-1912), it was the very center of the Greek community. The most important Greek schools surrounded that iconic monument.
In 1817 the older structure burnt down. The parishioners rebuilt their church within a year! The new building was consecrated on 15th November 1818, as testified by an inscription on the lintel of the southern portal. During the Greek Independence War in the 1820s, the Ottomans turned the church into a jail and let the Greek prisoners die from hunger and thirst.
The icons are really beautiful. I urge you to pay specific attention to the icon that depicts the Annunciation of the Virgin on the right portion of the iconostasis (the structure that separates the sanctuary from the main church and is filled with icons). If you compare it with masterpieces of Netherlandish or Flemish painting, such as the Arnolfini Portrait by Jan Van Eyck, you will realize the affinity between them! Sometimes visitors are even able to listen to awesome Byzantine hymns from the loudspeakers of the interior! Another unique experience in a place of martyrdom and memory, away from crowds!
Explore Thessaloniki like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Thessaloniki guide.
Particularly beautiful is the small dome with the depictions of Christ “Pantokrator” (Almighty) and the Apostles. And the neoclassical bell tower...
By
The iconostasis is just incredible! Pay attention to the dragons beneath the Cross on the top, they allude to the story of Prophet Jonah...
By
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.
By
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.
By
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.
By
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.
By
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.
By
"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!
By
"Massalia stin Thessaloniki" quickly became the talk of the town in 2014 when it opened. Today, this restaurant systematically exceeds my expectations.
By
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”.
By
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.
By
"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...
By
95 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 95 Insider Tips from our local Spotters