What it's like
The Rotunda, on St. George Square, began as a Roman temple of Zeus. Later it was converted into a Christian church, and it is known today as the Church of Agios Georgios. Its round plan and thick walls still show the building's first life.
A visit is short. The Rotunda is one of the few Byzantine churches here that charges an entrance fee. Nearby, the Rotunda of Galerius, a monument from the early fourth century AD, stands next to the Arch of Galerius, so the walk can take in both.
Good to know
- Entrance to the Byzantine churches is free except for the Rotunda, which charges a fee.
- The Rotunda of Galerius and the Arch of Galerius stand close by, so a short walk can cover several Roman monuments.
Rotunda
The Rotunda stands on St. George Square in central Thessaloniki. It began as a Roman temple and later became a Christian church, so one building holds both periods.
Tours that go here
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki
The Byzantine Walls run uphill from the center of Thessaloniki, with the Acropolis and the Heptapyrgion along the way. You walk the old fortifications on foot.
Byzantine churches of Thessaloniki
A cluster of UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches in the city center, including Agia Sophia, Agios Dimitrios and the Rotunda. Most are free to enter.
Aristotelous Square
Aristotelous Square is the open heart of Thessaloniki, a broad square where the city gathers for festivals and seasonal celebrations. It is the starting point for much of the old center.
Ano Poli
Ano Poli, the Upper City, is a medieval hillside quarter of narrow stone-paved streets climbing toward Mount Chortiatis. It is a place to wander on foot, with the old city feel most of the way up.
The same kind of day, elsewhere
Ancient sites
