Thessaloniki Rotonda Monument

Location: Rotonda

Built around 306 AD, during the rule of the Roman Emperor Galerius, the Rotonda (or Rotunda) is one of the most important Roman monuments of Thessaloniki. It stands just next to the Arch of Galerius, with which it used to be connected via a magnificent processional road leading to Galerius’ Palace. Though its original purpose remains obscure, it is believed to have been a temple dedicated to Zeus or the Cabeiri. At the same time, it is often argued that the Roman Tetrarch had intended it to be his mausoleum, but his death in Felix Romuliana (in present-day Serbia) prevented this plan from being carried out.

The Rotonda has a diameter of 24.5 meters and its walls are more than 6 meters thick, which has protected the monument from sieges, earthquakes and the wear of time. In the early Christian era, it was converted into an Orthodox church and many architectural interventions took place, with eight niches opened on the cylindrical wall. Other additions, like a narthex, a gallery and two chapels, have not survived.

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More about the Rotonda

In the 15th century, the Ottomans occupied Thessaloniki and in 1590, the Rotonda was converted into a mosque by Hortaci Suleiman Efendi. Thus, most of the murals were destroyed, while a tall minaret was added to the structure. After Thessaloniki was liberated in 1912, it was once more converted into an Orthodox church dedicated to Saint George. Presently, the Rotonda has been restored and operates as a museum.

The most remarkable remnants from the early Christian era are the masterful mosaics adorning the arched windows at the base of the dome. They can be divided into three zones, the best-preserved of which depicts scenes from the lives of martyrs, as well as imposing buildings adorned with a plethora of decorative elements. The richness of the geometrical and floral motifs and the brightness of the colors are so striking that they never fail to impress visitors.

Overall, the Rotonda is one of the oldest Orthodox churches in Thessaloniki and has been included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.