Thessaloniki Balkan Wars Museum

Location: Yefira
Don't miss: Museums guide (free admission dates and other useful info)

The Balkan Wars Museum is located in the village of Gefyra, about 25 km from the center of Thessaloniki. It was founded in 1999 to commemorate the two Balkan Wars of the early 1910s. The museum is housed in a well-preserved, two-story mansion constructed at the end of the 19th century. In 1912, this historic building hosted the negotiations for the peaceful transfer of Thessaloniki between the Greek commander-in-chief and representatives of the Ottoman forces.

The first Balkan War (October 1912 - May 1913) saw the alliance of the Balkan countries rise against the Ottoman Empire, while the Second Balkan War (June - July 1913) was the result of conflict among the Balkan countries in their attempt to share the territory gained from the Ottomans. These wars were very important for the Greeks, as they reclaimed areas that had been under Turkish rule for centuries, including Macedonia, Thrace, and the town of Thessaloniki.

First opening its doors on October 26th, 1999, the museum provides visitors with a thorough look into the history and legacy of the Balkan Wars. It includes photographs that depict scenes from the Balkan Wars, in the field of battles, or the negotiation processes. Of major interest are the four paintings made by Kenan Mesare, the son of the Turkish commander who delivered Thessaloniki to the Greeks. These paintings depict striking scenes from the Battle of Lahanas during the Second Balkan War.

What is more, the museum hosts authentic pieces of furniture supplemented by the Greek Army. An impressive collection of Greek, Bulgarian, and Turkish weapons is also on display, as are the Greek and Bulgarian military uniforms. Everyday tools used by generals or soldiers, military decorations, letters sent from politicians to the generals (including cards sent by Eleftherios Venizelos), and medals attributed to the army can be seen here as well.

The museum is open every day from 09:00 to 14:00.