Thessaloniki Church of Pammegistoi Taxiarches

Location: Old Town Ano Poli

The Church of Pammegistoi Taxiarches is located on the northeastern side of Ano Poli, along Mouson Steet. This stunning Byzantine church is dated to the early 14th century and is thought to have been a part of a larger monastery complex. After the country fell under Ottoman rule, the church was transformed into a mosque, and many major changes were made to its architecture; Islamic-style windows were installed, an extension was added to the southern side, and a narthex was built on the western side.

With the liberation of Thessaloniki in 1912 came the re-establishment of the Church of Pammegistoi Taxiarches as a Christian place of worship. It would then undergo several more alterations, with the biggest and last restoration project taking place in 1953. It included various architectural repairs, the demolition of the exterior narthex, and the extension of the church by six meters. The new section was uniquely designed in the neo-Byzantine style, something that makes Pammegistoi Taxiarches stand out among other churches of its time.

The church is a two-storied, four-aisled basilica. Its exterior presents exquisite masonry, with alternating patterns of brick and stone. Internally, the church once boasted some wonderful murals, most covered up during the various renovations. However, visitors will still be able to make out the two paintings depicting the Resurrection of Christ and the Pentecost, possibly made by renowned Byzantine painter Georgios Kalliergis. A crypt used for the burial of monks can be found here as well.