Rotunda
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What people say
Andrea Rizzo
Available for hire
"The Rotunda in Thessaloniki is a massive, cylindrical structure originally built around 306 AD as part of Emperor Galerius’s palace complex. Likely intended as a mausoleum or temple, it was later converted into a Christian church and eventually a mosque during the Ottoman era, reflecting the city’s layered history. Its thick walls, high dome, and impressive mosaics make it an architectural marvel and one of Thessaloniki’s oldest standing monuments. Today, the Rotunda is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a powerful symbol of the city’s diverse cultural past.
It is open in the morning and I unfortunately I had not have the chance to visit."
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Efthymia Kalogirou
Available for hire
"
Built in the early 4th century AD, the iconic monument of Thessaloniki represents a pivotal moment bridging the transition from the pagan to the Christian world.
Its purpose remains uncertain, with theories suggesting it served as a temple for ancient cult worship or as a potential mausoleum for Constantine the Great (306-337).
This circular, domed structure stands at a height of 29.80 meters, has a diameter of 24.50 meters, and boasts walls 6.30 meters thick.
Architecturally unparalleled, it draws comparisons only to the Pantheon in Rome."
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Mirka Ondrejkovicova
Available for hire
"The oldest church in Thessaloniki, one of its origin stories suggests it was built in the 4th century as a temple of the god Zeus. It was later converted into a Christian temple.
Note that the rotunda is closed on Tuesdays.
Individual price to see the Rotunda is 6 euros, but a combined ticket is available if you want to see multiple sites. The ticket includes the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the White Tower, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki as well as the Rotunda. The ticket costs 15 euros and is valid for 3 days. "
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