What is the principal mystery
of Northern Greece? It is Greece's second largest city, Thessaloniki. Its
surrounding villages, namely Vergina (the royal capital of Macedonia) give
Northern Greece its culture and history. Did you know that many travelers pass
through these villages en route to other European cities, bypass its oldest and
finest Byzantine churches, impressive ancient fortifications, fascinating
museums, adorable street cafes and colorful markets? Come join us through the
doorway to the Balkans.
Thessaloniki is a busy, vibrant city and it is Greece's second major
economic, industrial, commercial and transportation hub in southeastern Europe.
It was founded by King Cassander of Macedona in
315 BC and named after his wife, who was Alexander the Great's half-sister,
Thessaloniki. Unfortunately, in 1917, the town was destroyed by a single fire
which was accidentally caused by French soldiers who were camping there. But,
in 2004, the same city hosted some of the football events of the summer
Olympics.
Spend your days at the beach or
at the city centre. The waterfront is a major attraction of Thessanoliki. The promenade of Nikis Avenue
runs from the White Tower to
the giant palace that is now on a ferry terminal. In addition, the city center
is close to Aristotelous Square.
In addition, did you know that
during the Ottoman era, Thessaloniki's Jewish communities (approximately 46,
000) were dominant until 1922? Pella, Veria and Vergina which are on the
Chalkidiki peninsula. 32 kilometers away from Thessanoliki is Pella. Pella is
the birthplace of Alexander the Great and it served as a Palace of Macedonia.
It has exquisite floor mosaics of original villas dating back to 4th century
BC. Saint Paul even preached there.
Pella is located a few
kilometers from Veria which also boasted a large Jewish community at one time. Veria is only 15
kilometers from Vergina. Vergina is
situated 47 kilometers southwest of Thessaloniki. These museums house astonishing and priceless
artifacts that belonged to the Macedonian civilization such as the Royal Tombs
of Macedonia and King Phillipos (the father of Alexander the
Great).
Thessalaniki has many museums
with antiquities from its storied past. The ancient fortifications in Pella,
Veria and Vergina are also steeped in history, once occupied by the Olympic
Gods. The beaches of Chalkidiki are even accessible when you tour through the
door to the Balkans.
