Thessaloniki Agia Sofia Church

Location: Egnatia

The Church of Agia Sofia (Holy Wisdom) is among the oldest churches in Thessaloniki and a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site. It is situated at the center of the city, on the homonymous square. The first church in this location was a five-aisled basilica dedicated to Saint Mark, constructed in the 3rd century AD. After its collapse sometime around the early 7th century, the present church was built, following the architectural design of the Church of Agia Sofia in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul).

In 1205 AD, when the Fourth Crusade captured the city, Agia Sofia became the cathedral of Thessaloniki. In 1430 AD, the Ottomans conquered the town, and the church was converted into a mosque till the liberation of Thessaloniki in 1912 when it once again became a Christian church. In 1917, the great fire that burnt two-thirds of the town caused serious damage to the interior decoration and the dome. In 1978, the church suffered even more significant damage due to a severe earthquake. Because of its historical significance, the church is part of the Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki which have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Today, a large part of the church has been restored. Surrounded by a lush garden of pine trees, the building showcases an austere exterior with stone features and warm colors. It has the features of a three-aisled basilica and a cross-domed church. Inside, one can admire frescoes, icons, and mosaics exemplary of Byzantine art. The dome is 10 meters in diameter and is decorated with a gorgeous mosaic representing the Ascension of Christ, dated to the end of the 9th century. Of note is the mosaic of the Virgin Mary cradling baby Jesus Christ found on the arch of the apse. The church also houses impressive sculptures and carved decorations of the 8th, 9th, and 11th centuries.

Top Tours and activities

• City sightseeing hop on hop off bus tour

  Category: Bus, City, Hop On Hop Off

  Explore all the main points of Thessaloniki’s center with this hop-on hop-off tour! Stop or pass by the imposing White Tower, the city museum, the most famous churches of Thessaloniki, the beautiful Ano Poli, and the most frequented squares.

  (1 day) Map

  from € 16.00

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• Self guided audio walking tour and narrative

  Category: Half-day, City, Walking

  Find out more about Thessaloniki's sights with a self-guided audio tour! Starting from the statue of Alexander The Great, explore your way towards the Arch in Kamara, the Church of Agia Sofia, and the city's gem, the White Tower!

  (1 day) Map

  from € 7.99

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