White Tower of Thessaloniki
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What people say
Mirka Ondrejkovicova
Available for hire
"White Tower, probably the most famous sight in Thessaloniki. It was built in 1535 and originally it was surrounded by heavy walls as it was used as a prison during the Ottoman occupation of Greece. Many prisoners were tortured and executed here, hence the tower's nickname: “The Tower of Blood”, or “The Red Tower”.
There are multiple stories about how it became the White Tower. One says that in 1890 a prisoner repainted it white in exchange for his freedom. Another version is that it was renamed by the Greeks in 1913, 1 year after they reconquered the city.
The 34-meter high tower is now home to the White Tower Museum, dedicated to Thessaloniki’s history from the Roman Era to the present day.
If your primary motivation behind going are the views, but you are on a budget, consider going to some of the other sites listed in this guide which offer views of the city and the sea for free (check out Heptapyrgion and the Vlatadon Monastery below).
Individual price to see the White Tower is 8 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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Efthymia Kalogirou
Available for hire
"An iconic landmark gracing the waterfront of Thessaloniki, stands as a timeless symbol of the city's rich history.
Originally part of the city's fortifications, it has witnessed centuries of transformations and serves today as a cultural treasure trove, housing exhibitions that narrate Thessaloniki's vibrant past.
Ascend its steps for panoramic views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf, immersing yourself in the beauty and heritage of this captivating Greek destination."
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Andrica Cristina
Available for hire
" Originally built by the Ottomans in the 15th century, the White Tower was used as a fortress, a garrison, and later as a prison. In 1912, when Thessaloniki was liberated, it was whitewashed as a symbolic gesture of cleansing and renewal, thus earning its current name."
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About White Tower of Thessaloniki
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