White Tower of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece

The White Tower is a monument and museum on the waterfront of the city of Thessaloniki. The present tower replaced an old Byzantine fortification, known to have been mentioned around the 12th century, that the Ottoman Empire reconstructed to fortify the city's harbour sometime after Sultan Murad II captured Thessaloniki in 1430. The tower became a notorious prison and scene of mass executions during the period of Ottoman rule.

The White Tower was substantially remodeled and its exterior was whitewashed after Greece gained control of the city in 1912. It has been adopted as the symbol of the city.

The White Tower houses an exhibition dedicated to the city of Thessaloniki and its history throughout various periods, organized by the city's Museum of Byzantine Culture.

References:

Comments

Your name



Details

Founded: 12th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Greece

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Barbora Kotasová (2 years ago)
Very nice place. I was there in December so no queues and very little people. There is a nice view from the top. Definitely worth going up. In each floor there is a small exhibition, for example of old photos (how does this tower and it's neighborhood looked like hundred years ago). Small gift shop at the top floor. I think people up to 26 years have a free entrance. View from the top is amazing.
Cristian OARA (2 years ago)
It was an interesting experience ! There is a guide at the entrance. There are people who help you at every level and there is also a gadget that automatically translates into 4 international languages. At the last floor you can enjoy the beautiful view of the city and the sea . It's amazing!!!
Irina Noskova (2 years ago)
A beautiful place with a panorama. The ticket (6€) includes an audio guide in 4 languages (English and Russian for sure), but you need your own headphones for the audio guide. This surprised me a little. There are a lot of installations inside, but everything is in Greek and an audio guide would help to understand more. At the very top there is a beautiful panorama of the city around.
Stylianos Prodromou (2 years ago)
Price for the ticket is 12 euro. And there was a day free to the public 18 of May (museum day). What can I possibly share for my experience? Amazing things to learn in the White tower. It totally worth visiting to learn more for Greek history and for the history of Thessaloniki. Stairs can make you feel a bit claustrophobic as they are a bit low.? Just make sure you have an hour or two to spend as there is so much to see and read and watch(Projectors). And on top you can take amazing pictures of Thermaic Gulf and mountain Olympus if weather allows. Just go for it if you are a fan of Greek history and amazing views. No hot/open soft drinks allowed inside (apart from water)
Powered by Google

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Historic Site of the week

Kakesbeck Castle

Kakesbeck is one of the largest medieval fortifications in Münsterland and the oldest castle in Lüdinghausen. The imposingly grown complex originated in 1120 as a motte, a small hilltop tower castle. After numerous changes of ownership, the castle was extended onto two islands, but it was not until the 14th century that it underwent significant alterations and extensions under the von Oer family. The estate experienced its heyday in the middle of the 18th century, when it covered an area of almost one square kilometre and consisted of five further outer castles in addition to the core castle, which were secured by ramparts and moats.

The well-maintained condition of the castle today is thanks to the late Wilfried Grewing, the former lord of the castle. The foundation named after him has been particularly committed to preserving the property since 2020.