History:

Thessaloniki, also known as Salonica, is located along the Thermaic Gulf and has a population of approximately 1.1 million (in the metropolitan area), making it the second-largest city in Greece. The city was founded in 316 BC by King Cassander of Macedon on the site of a prehistoric settlement. The period between 1246-1430 marked the city's Golden Age, when it became an important cultural and economic center. Later, Thessaloniki was occupied by the Ottomans for five centuries. In the 1950s, the city underwent significant urban transformation, but in 1978, it was severely damaged by an earthquake. Thessaloniki was designated the European Capital of Culture in 1997, solidifying its status as a cultural and historical hub.

Tourist Attractions:

Thessaloniki offers visitors a multitude of interesting tourist attractions:

Byzantine Walls in the northern part of the city, surrounding the old citadel and offering panoramic views.

The White Tower (Lefkos Pyrgos), built in the 16th century, is the symbol of Thessaloniki and houses a museum dedicated to the city's history.

The Archaeological Museum, showcasing artifacts from prehistoric, Hellenistic, and Roman periods.

The Museum of Byzantine Culture, where visitors can explore the rich heritage of the Byzantine Empire.

The Roman Forum, an archaeological site featuring ruins of a marketplace, an odeon, and Roman baths.

The Byzantine Citadel (Heptapyrgion), located in the upper part of the city, with narrow streets and traditional houses.

Byzantine Churches, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list, such as Agios Dimitrios, Agia Sofia, Agios Nikolaos, and Agioi Apostoloi.

The Arch of Galerius and Rotunda, two impressive monuments from the Roman era.

Famous shopping streets like Ermou, Tsimiski, Venizelou, and Agias Sofias, where visitors can shop and discover Greek, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences.

Jewish communities, which have earned the city the nickname "Mother of Israel," with a rich history and impressive synagogues.

Events:

Thessaloniki hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year:

The Wine Festival, held in August, promoting local wines.

The Thessaloniki International Fair, the largest exhibition center in Greece, taking place on September 30, attracting thousands of visitors and exhibitors from around the world.

The Thessaloniki International Film Festival, one of the most important film events in Southeast Europe, held in November.

The Dimitria Festival, a cultural event featuring concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.

Airlines:

Thessaloniki is served by Makedonia International Airport (SKG), offering regular flights to and from numerous European and international destinations. Airlines such as Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, Wizz Air, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, TAROM, ITA Airways, and Austrian Airlines operate flights to Thessaloniki. Many options and deals are available online for those looking to purchase flight tickets to Thessaloniki, making this city an accessible and popular destination.