Aristotelous Square

Aristotelous Square is the main city square of Thessaloniki, Greece and is located on Nikis avenue (on the city's waterfront), in the city center. It was designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard in 1918, but most of the square was built in the 1950s. Many buildings surrounding the central square have since been renovated and its northern parts were largely restored in the 2000s. Aristotelous Square is one of the most famous places in all of Greece and almost synonymous with the city of Thessaloniki itself. The square plays an important role in the sociopolitical life not only of the city, but of the wider country as well. Numerous large rallies and political speeches have been organized in Aristotelous Square, such as the rally for Macedonia in 1992. Additionally the square is used for many cultural events, such as festivals and the annual Christmas and carnival celebrations. It is an important tourist attraction for the city, and the numerous cafes and bars that line up the square make it popular with the younger generations.

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Navarinou & Rotonda

The square dates back to the Roman period of the city, with the ruins of the palace of Galerius located within it. The square is beside the "Hippodromus Square", the ancient site of Hippodrome where the Massacre of Thessalonica took place during the reign of Theodosius I.Navarino Square in Thessaloniki: Navarino Square is located in the center of Thessaloniki, close to Pavlou Mela street. This is a frequent meeting point for the locals, as many cafeterias and creperies are located around this paved square with the lovely fountain. In a walking street from Navarino square, there is the Byzantine church of Agia (Saint) Sofia, which was built according to the design of the church of Agia Sofia in Constantinople.

The Rotonda (or Rotunda) is one of the most important Roman monuments in Thessaloniki. It stands just next to the Arch of Galerius in the city center and it is also known as the Church of Agios Georgios. This cylindrical structure was built in 306 AD by the Roman tetrarch Galerius, who intended it to be his grave. At first, it worked as a temple but it remains unknown to which god this temple was dedicated. Source
Photo by Nafsika G. on Unsplash

Paralia

The renovated seafront of Thessaloniki stretches along the Thermaikos bay, embracing a 3.5 km stretch of coastline — from the city port to the Concert Hall. This is a place where everyone can find his own way to relax from hustle and bustle, enjoying the atmosphere of Greek coziness and magnificence of nature. Opening an endless view of the Bay from one side, Paralia offers not only romantic walks along the shoreline, but also theme parks, lots of cafes and restaurants, sport grounds, various monuments and installations. It is possible to have a look on Paralia from the sea as well, if having appeared on the board of one of small cruise ships or you can try some dishes of amazing Greek cuisine in one of floating cafes and restaurants.

Today the renovated White Tower is used as an exhibition centre. Under the auspices of the Museum of Byzantine Culture a permanent exhibition is on display dedicated to Thessaloniki, which allows the visitor to acquire a detailed knowledge of the successive historical periods of this great city. At the same time significant temporary exhibitions are held, such as for example exhibitions on Byzantine religious painting. The renovation of the monument and the themes it hosts show a deep respect both for its architectural style as well as its significance.

The imposing bronze statue of Alexander the Great riding his faithful companion of 20 years, Bucephalus, dominates Thessaloniki's Nea Paralia, a few meters away from another city landmark, the White Tower. This is one of the city's most photographed sights, which was erected in 1973 with public fundraising. It was unveiled in 1974. The equestrian statue of the Macedonian commander was created by the sculptor Evangelos Moustakas and is the tallest in Greece, reaching almost 6.15 meters in height.

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Photo by Aris Katsaras on Unsplash
Photo by Nafsika G. on Unsplash

THESSALONIKI, GREECE

Agora Modiano

Agora Modiano, thanks to its extremely high level of quality, aims to become a reference point for Thessaloniki in every way possible; to offer the finest domestic and international flavors, in an environment with a distinct architectural identity and historical significance, in an unparalleled combination of Gastronomy and Culture that will give a unique pulse to the city’s heart. Taking into account the unique – and institutionally recognized – monumental character of the Modiano Market, its restoration was carried out along three axes: the constructional – where the most modern building practices and the most suitable materials were used; the architectural – where its profile was preserved unchanged; and the functional – in terms of logistics and the smooth operation of each store. The successful implementation of all the solutions in all three areas was a big bet – which was clearly won. The Modiano Market will offer a high-quality gastronomic experience to its visitors, in keeping with the identity of the city, in an environment where History, Culture, Architecture, Taste, and People will co-create a living landmark – as envisioned in 1930 by its founder, Eli Modiano, and as continued today by the Fais Group. Its 75 shops are divided into groups, depending on the type of food they offer: essentials such as vegetables, meat, and seafood, certified organic products, local Greek flavors, Fair Trade products, and ethnic proposals from all over the world. All of them are carefully selected, with a non-negotiable level of quality. In addition, on the two balconies in the northern and southern parts of the Market, there will be food outlets – with most of them drawing inspiration from the character and product range of the Market. Modiano Market is back. Not just as the largest and most modern covered market in Thessaloniki, but as living proof of its timeless culinary and cultural legacy.

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