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Thessaloniki

One of the more interesting cities to visit in Greece, Thessalonica combines successfully the bustling city offerings of the second largest city in the country, 1.5 million people, with a more cultural, artistic, gourmet and historic character.
A metropolitan hub and a collection of peculiar corners you will enjoy discovering. Wonderfully easy to see on foot - most things you would like to visit you can walk to, if you're staying in the centre.
Thessalonica is one of the oldest cities in Europe. However, its history is experienced in a more subtle way than, for example, the obvious visiting of the Acropolis in Athens. There are a great number of historic and archaeological sites dispersed in the city, but we would say that most importantly, its heritage is found in the sophisticated and slightly puzzling character of its inhabitants.

MAIN SQUARE DOWNTOWN. WALKING DISTANCE FROM THE HOTEL
Because of its strategic position and importance Greeks often refer to it as the “co-capital” of Greece. Indeed, it is a most important commerce and culture center. The Helexpo International Trade Fair held in September, is a showcase for technology and business activity from many countries (but also a funfair for adults and children alike).
The Thessaloniki International Film Festival held in November is one of the principal film festivals in Europe, that brings interesting and glamorous crowds to its premieres.

A VIEW FROM AIRPLANE WINDOW
One of the things that give Thessalonica is distinct character is its long and wide waterfront. Stretching from the harbor to the White Tower (the "Palia Paralia" = Old Beach), all the way to the east part of the city and beyond, it is the delight of locals, as well as visitors, who can be seen strolling at any time of day (or night), in any weather conditions. The coastal road is opportunely strewn with cafes, some of great style and fame, that provide just the right atmosphere to pause your walk, enjoy perhaps a beautiful sunset (the sun sets over the sea, affording many such opportunities) while sipping your moccacino or Greek coffee.

THE STATUE IN TOWN CENTER

A taste of history
Thessaloniki (or Salonica, as it is also known) is 23 centuries old. It was founded 315 B.C. by king Kassandros, named after his wife, Thessaloniki, who was Alexander the Great’s sister. It soon became the glorious capital of Makedonia and a commercial and cultural centre for the Balkans.
In 168 B.C. The Romans made Thessaloniki the capital of the Roman province of Makedonia and the southern Balkans. The construction of the famous "Via Egnatia" (that connects the "East" to the "West", which is being revived as an active route today), together with the city's port, contributes to Thessaloniki's expansion and affluence.
With the founding of the Byzantine Empire in 395 A.D., Thessaloniki was pronounced "co-regent" with Constantinople. The city acquired a Byzantine character which it has maintained to the present day, with more (and more significant) Byzantine monuments than any other city in Europe.
In 1430 it was occupied by the Turks and claims an important role in the Ottoman Empire, which its strategic position and power guarantee.
In 1912 the city was liberated by the Greek army on the feast day of its patron saint, Agios Dimitrios.