In the country of Greece you will be able to find the city of Thessaloniki. This city is also known by the names of Thessalonica or even Salonica. It is the second largest city in the whole of Greece. Additionally you will find that it is the capital city of the area known as Macedonia. The honorific title is Symprotevousa which means “co-capital”. This is a reference which can be traced back to the times when it was a co-reigning city in the Byzantine Empire along with that of Constantinople.

While this title provides you with an idea as to the rich history that can be found in this Grecian city you will find plenty of evidence of its continuous 3000 year old history in the many relics which have been preserved beautifully. These ancient historical relics can be found from a number of civilizations such as the Roman, Ottoman and Byzantine Empires. Besides looking at these relics you will also have the opportunity of see relics from Thessaloniki’s formerly dominant Jewish population.

As you wander around this city you will see a number of well preserved buildings and churches. Of these you will find the Byzantine churches have been included in the World Heritage Site list of UNESCO. Besides looking at the cultural wonders which can be found in Thessaloniki you will find there is a lively night life atmosphere to be found here. The numerous bars and pubs will provide you with music, new acquaintances to make and drinks to relax by. The various restaurants and eateries that you will find in this city will provide you with delicious meals for affordable budgets.

Once you have enjoyed these modern pleasures you may wish to see the other sights which can be found in Thessaloniki. These will include places like the Rotonda. This structure started life as a Roman temple which was dedicated to the God Zeus. It was built by Caesar Galerius. The Rotunda is almost as old as the Pantheon that you will be able to see in Rome. Not too far from this structure you will be able to see the famous Arch of Triumph of Galerius and the ruins of his palace.

You will be able to find this ancient ruin of Thessaloniki standing in Dimitrios Gounari Street. The arch was built on this spot during 298 to 299 CE. In 303 CE is was dedicated to the Tetrarch Galerius to celebrate his victory of the Sassanid Persians as well as the capture of their capital city Ctesiphon in 298. Originally the arch was built as an eight pillared gateway which formed a triple arch. The arch was first made from brick and then marble panels with sculptural carvings to embellish the panels.

As you walk around these structures you will find the history and rich culture of Thessaloniki is easy to see. These sights should whet your appetite to see and experience more of the culture and beauty that is Thessaloniki. The next time someone asks you about your next holiday in Greece mention the city of Thessaloniki and see what they say.

Author Bio: For a wide selection of Thessaloniki hotels just click here.

Category: Travel
Keywords: thessaloniki,visit thessaloniki,stay in thessaloniki,thessaloniki hotels