Heptapyrgion (Yedi Kule)
A Byzantine-Ottoman fortress crowning the Upper Town.
About
The Heptapyrgion, also known as Yedi Kule (Turkish for "seven towers"), is the fortress crowning the acropolis of the Upper Town — the highest point of the walls.
History
Byzantine in origin, it was reinforced in Ottoman times and for much of the 20th century served as a prison — a past that even entered famous rebetiko songs. Today it is a visitable archaeological site.
Why it's worth it
Beyond the history, it offers a view over the whole city and the gulf. It is the natural finish to a walk along the Upper Town walls.
Good to know
At the top of Ano Poli; combine it with the Byzantine walls and Vlatades Monastery.
FAQs
Why is it called Yedi Kule?
It's the Turkish name ("seven towers"); it served for decades as a prison, which is how many still remember it.
Updated: 10 September 2026
Where to eat nearby
Boston — Breakfast, Coffee & More
Breakfast, coffee and snacks to take away or delivered. The chain's branch on Konstantinou Karamanli.
★8.3 kmMavri Thalassa
A seafood restaurant overlooking the sea in Nea Krini. A family story that began in 1926 as an Asia Minor refugee's kafeneio.
Where to stay nearby
Similar
★White Tower
Thessaloniki's symbol on the waterfront: a 15th-century tower with a museum and city views.
★Rotunda (St George)
An imposing 4th-century Roman rotunda, a UNESCO monument with early-Christian mosaics.
★Arch of Galerius (Kamara)
A 4th-century Roman triumphal arch and the city's classic central meeting point.
★Church of Saint Demetrios
The city's largest church, dedicated to its patron saint. A UNESCO monument.