The Port of Thessaloniki, situated in Thessaloniki, Greece, stands as a significant maritime hub, deeply intertwined with the city's economic history and development. Renowned for being one of the largest ports in the Eastern Mediterranean, it plays a crucial role in bridging southeastern Europe and the Balkans with maritime routes across the globe. This bustling port specializes in handling both shipping containers and general cargo, making it a pivotal point for trade in the region.

Strategically connected to both national and international rail networks, the Port of Thessaloniki ensures seamless distribution of goods, underscoring its importance in the global logistics chain. Its historical significance is also notable; during World War I, it served as a base of operations for the Allies. In a darker chapter of history, during World War II, the port was seized by Germany, which then used it as a departure point for the deportation of Thessaloniki's Jewish population to Poland.

The port also boasts one of the Aegean Sea's largest passenger terminals, housed in a building steeped in history. Originally constructed in 1912 as a customs house, this building now welcomes thousands of tourists, as Thessaloniki has emerged as a favored cruise destination. Its passenger terminal's proximity to the city's main attractions further enhances its appeal, offering easy access to Thessaloniki's rich cultural and historical landmarks. The Port of Thessaloniki, thus, not only serves as a vital commercial gateway but also as a point of convergence for cultural exchanges, making it a cornerstone of Thessaloniki's vibrant identity.

It was August, 1917. Greece had taken the Allied side in the Great War and the city of Thessaloniki was teeming with British and French troops and refugees from Turkey. In a small house of refugees at OLympiados 3, an ember from the kitchen fire set some straw alight. The fire spread, driven by the wind, and Thessaloniki burned for two days.

French architect Ernest Hebrard was in town. Prime Minister Eleftherios Venizelos forbade any reconstruction without a modern plan and he commissioned Hebrard for the job.

Hebrard came up with a city-wide plan of large squares and broad avenues and buildings with imposing facades derived from Byzantine elements. Among the large squares was Alexander the Great Square, now called Aristotelous Square.

A monumental axis stretches from sea-facing Aristotelous Square to Dikastirion Square and the Roman Forum. Looking uphill from the square one can see the ancient Byzantine walls of the city. A statue of Alexander the Great rides the waterfront esplanade of the square. Eleftherios Venizelos raises his right hand in benediction.

Aristotle relaxes in his chiton and sandals. The big toe of his left foot shines from rubbings of students hoping his wisdom will rub off. The square is a venue for rallies and demonstrations and cultural events, including annual Christmas and carnival celebrations.

The square is also home to several landmark buildings, such as the Electra Palace Hotel. This iconic hotel features stunning architecture and lavish interior decorations. In addition, visitors can check out the Orizontes Roof Garden and enjoy a spectacular waterfront view while dining or enjoying a cocktail.

The Olympion Theatre Cinema is another popular attraction. The neoclassical Olympion hosts the annual International Film Festival of Thessalonica. This film festival began in 1960 and facilities film viewers to discuss the chosen movies with film directors.

The 23 meters (75 feet) tall White Tower is known as the symbol of Thessaloniki. The Ottomans built the tower around 15th century. It is thought that the fortress was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mirmar Sinan. It was originally surrounded by fortified walls and was an essential part of Thessaloniki's defenses.

When it was first constructed, it was known as the Lion Tower to honor the Ottoman's victory. The tower was part of the old city's walls and separated the Jewish quarter from the Muslim quarter.

It was renamed the Tower of Kalamaria in the 17th century. It was then used as a garrison. Next, the tower was used as a prison and became known as the Tower of Blood or the Red Tower. During this time, the tower was the site of torture and execution. For example, in 1826, Sultan Mahmud II ordered the massacre of the rebellious Janissaries imprisoned in the tower.

Finally, the tower was painted white in 1891 and named the White Tower. Some historians suggest that the Ottoman Empire sought to "whitewash" the tower's brutal torture history with a change of paint and a new name. While the truth behind the change is unknown, the White Tower name has stuck.

King George I of Greece was assassinated near the White Tower in 1913. Hopefully this was the last drop of blood for the White Tower.

The tower served as an Allied forces communication center during World War I. At this time, the defensive walls were taken down. The White Tower also protected priceless antiquities during World War I.

Thessaloniki's air defense operated from the tower from 1912 to 1983. The tower also housed a meteorological laboratory.

Visitors can enjoy expansive views of the city and Thermaic Gulf from the top floor. In addition, the promenade in front of the tower is a popular spot for photos and meetings.

The White Tower is home to a museum that celebrates Thessaloniki's history. Exhibitions explore the city's history from its founding in 316 BC to today.

Hagia Sophia means "Holy Wisdom". The Church of Hagia Sophia is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Thessaloniki's most striking and iconic landmarks.

A church has been located on the site since the third century. The current church was built in the seventh century and emulated Istanbul's Hagia Sophia.

The Church of Hagia Sophia features a domed Greek cross basilica floor plan and is one of the main examples of this architectural style.

The gold mosaic in the dome depicts the Ascension and is surrounded by the Twelve Apostles, Mary, and two angels.

The Hagia Sophia was converted to the cathedral of Thessaloniki in 1205 during the Fourth Crusade. From 1205 to 1224, the Hagia Sophia was used as a Catholic church.

In 1430, the Ottoman Empire captured Thessaloniki and turned the Church of Hagia Sophia into a mosque in 1524. The mosque was called Ayia Sofia. In order to complete its transformation into a mosque, workers added an arched portico, a minaret, and a tower. When Thessaloniki was liberated in 1912, the church was finally reconverted to a Christian church.

The porch and minaret were removed, but the tower's base remains.

The church was damaged in the 1917 fire and wasn't restored until 1980. The interior features beautiful mosaics and stunning frescoes. Most of the frescoes date from the 11th century.

The dome features a spectacular 9th-century mosaic that shows Christ's Ascension. Capitals on the interior columns date to the fifth century and were likely originally in the previous church. The columns have a deep relief and dramatic carvings.

The Arch of Galerius was dedicated in 303 AD to celebrate Roman co-emperor Galerius' victory against the Persians. The structure originally featured an eight-pillared gateway that formed a triple arch. A road connected the Arch with the Rotunda and the Palace complex.

Today, only three of the eight pillars survive. However, the Arch of Galerius is still one of Thessaloniki's most distinctive landmarks. Locals know it as Kamara and often use the landmark as a meeting point.

The two central pillars feature sculpted marble slabs, depicting Galerius fighting the Persians. Another marble relief shows the imperial family making a thanksgiving sacrifice. Unfortunately, all faces have been chiseled off the reliefs. This damage was possibly done to commemorate the dead.

Another panel shows the unity of the tetrarchy, with Galerius dressed in armor. The Arch of Galerius is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Rotunda of Galerius is an impressive cylindrical structure. Roman co-emperor Galerius built the Rotunda in 306 AD. Some historians believe that Galerius intended the structure to be a mausoleum, while others believe it was a temple.

The Rotunda's walls are over six meters (18 feet) thick and have helped the Rotunda survive earthquakes. The building is over 29 meters (95 feet) tall and 24.5 meters (80 feet) in diameter.

The Rotunda is architecturally similar to the famous Pantheon in Rome.

A road links the Rotunda to the Arch of Galerius. The Rotunda served as a Christian church during the Byzantine Empire era when an additional sanctuary was added to the building.

The interior features mosaics dating to the Early Byzantine period. The Rotunda served as Thessaloniki's cathedral from 1524 to 1591. In 1591, it was converted to a mosque when the Ottoman Empire invaded. The Rotunda served as a mosque until the city's liberation in 1912. After the liberation, the church was dedicated to Saint George.

Visitors will be delighted by the myriad of exceptional mosaics. The mosaics in the barrel vaults feature natural scenes such as birds, flowers, and fruit baskets. The southern niche's mosaic features a gold Latin Cross surrounded by birds, stars, flowers, and fruits.

Earthquakes have damaged the dome's mosaics throughout the centuries. The "martyrs frieze" features mosaics of several saints.

A mosaic medallion is located in the apex of the dome. This mosaic shows angels holding a medallion. Unfortunately, the depiction of a young Christ holding a cross has been heavily damaged.

The semidome of the apse features a painting of the Ascension.

When the Rotunda was converted into a mosque in 1591, a minaret was added. The minaret is one of the few still standing at full height.

The Trigonion Tower is the Byzantine city wall's most famous tower. It is part of Thessaloniki's UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built to reinforce an artillery tower after the Turkish occupation began in 1430. The tower's location was strategically important as this portion of the wall when Thessaloniki faced heavy attacks.

During Ottoman rule, the tower was also called Chain Tower or Belted Tower due to a relief in the central section that looks like a belt. It was used as an artillery tower and an armory. The tower is 22 meters (72.2 feet) tall and 24 meters (78.7 feet) in diameter.

The Trigonion Tower is also known as Thessaloniki's balcony. It provides an excellent view of the city's acropolis. In addition, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the old city and the Gulf of Thermaikos. On clear days, visitors can see Mount Olympus 150 kilometers away. Visitors and locals alike often gather here to watch the sunset.

Visitors can stop at a nearby cafe for refreshments before continuing their walk.

The Walls of Thessaloniki used to encircle the city from the Middle Ages until 1874 when much of them, especially the parts facing the sea, were destroyed during Ottoman renovations of Thessaloniki.

The remaining section of the Walls dates back to around 390 AD, built during the early Byzantine period, with some parts originating from an earlier construction in the late 3rd century. They're made of the typical late Roman style with alternating layers of stone and brick.

Today, the Walls stretch about 4 kilometers, half of their original length of 8 kilometers, and stand up to 10-12 meters tall and 4.5 meters wide. On the northeast side, they climb up the hills and connect with the Acropolis and Heptapyrgion Fortress.

In 1355, Byzantine Empress Anna Palaiologina modified some parts of the Walls, creating two gates known as Doors to the Walls, and another one to the west called "Portara," meaning Great Gate. These gates provided safe passage for citizens to seek refuge in the Acropolis and Heptapyrgion during attacks or sieges.

The Portara, the main gate, is well-preserved, showing layers of brickwork from repairs done over the centuries. The Walls also feature around 50 towers, including some from the Byzantine era like Klaudianos, Relief, Ormisda, and Andronikos Lapardas towers, as well as those from the Ottoman period such as the White Tower and the Chain/Triangle Tower. The Walls of Thessaloniki are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Alaca Imaret Mosque, also known as the Ishak Pasha Mosque, is a mosque from the 15th century under Ottoman rule. According to an inscription found at its entrance, the mosque was established in February 1484 by the command of Inogiolou Ishak Pasha, who served as the Grand Vizier during the reigns of Mohammed II and Bayezid II.

Besides its primary function as a place of worship, the mosque also housed facilities such as an imaret, a public charity kitchen, and a medrese, a religious school. By the 17th century, the Alaca Imaret had risen to prominence and became one of the city's notable institutions.

The mosque follows the architectural style typical of early Ottoman structures, featuring an inverted T-shape layout with a central area, two large domes, side chambers on the western side, and a colonnaded portico with five smaller domes. Historically, the central space was designated for prayers, while the surrounding areas were utilized for educational activities and communal meals. Inside, a significant arch divides the space into two square sections, each covered by a dome.

Originally, the mosque boasted lavish interior decoration including murals adorning the domes and walls, along with Quranic inscriptions. The name "Alaja Imaret" derives from the colorful, rhomboid-shaped stones (alaça) that once embellished the mosque's minaret. Unfortunately, the minaret was destroyed after Thessaloniki was recaptured by the Greeks in 1912, leaving only its base intact.

In 1970, following the collapse of the northern part of the portico, maintenance works commenced for the first time. Further restoration efforts took place between 1993 and 1996, focusing on the intricate external masonry among other tasks. Presently, the municipality of Thessaloniki owns the building, which no longer serves as a mosque but instead functions as an exhibition space.

Church of Saint Demetrios is a Paleochristian and Byzantine Monument of Thessaloniki. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.

Demetrios was born in 270 AD. He rose to a high rank in the Roman army and secretly converted many Romans to the Christian faith. Emperor Galerius Maximianus, persecutor of Christians, had Demetrios killed and his body dumped into a bath house. Demetrios is referred as a military saint. He is credited with guarding the city through its many sieges.

A church was built over the bath house where Demetrios was killed. The prefect of Illyricum later replaced the church with a three aisled basilica. In the 7th century the basilica was rebuilt after a fire. The rebuilt basilica had five aisles and took the form it retains today.

After the Great Fire of 1917 the Church of Hagios Demetrios was a charred ruin. Restoration began in 1925. Bricks as well as tombstones from the Jewish Cemetery were used. In the fire of 1917, 30 synagogues were destroyed.

Only nine mosaics from the 5th through the 9th centuries survived the fire. They depict children making offerings to the saint, the saint with priests, and the saint with patrons of the church. The mosaics are mostly on the west wall of the nave.

The columns of the central nave vary in height and color. The variation in height is compensated for by adjustment of the bases. The motifs of the capitals involve Theodosian capitals, doves, rams, eagles and acanthus leaves.

The crypt is below the altar. It functions as a museum and contains artifacts excavated from ruins of the fire.

The Roman Forum is an excavated Roman-era forum, also known as the "Ancient Agora." In 1966, workmen, while digging the foundations for the new Thessaloniki Municipal Courthouse, uncovered the remains of the agora. The Municipal Courthouse was moved to another location and archeologists excavated the area.

When the Romans came to Thessaloniki they enlarged the Greek agora and created a forum on two levels. The complex features two Roman baths and a theater used for gladiator games. The original Roman forum was built in the second century and used through the sixth century. It was the religious, administrative, and social center of the city. The forum was connected to the city's main streets.

The Roman Forum was decorated with ornate arches, fountains, and cloisters. Visitors can see the restored amphitheater inside the agora. Parts of ancient Corinthia columns are still standing. These columns formed two-story porticoes. The forum also had beautiful mosaic floors.

The Cryptoporticus semi-subterranean corridors are very well preserved. Visitors can follow this corridor to the forum's underground museum. The museum includes exhibits with artifacts from the site, including silver coins and marble sculptures.