White Tower

The White Tower is Thessaloniki's signature landmark — the building that stands for the city on every postcard. It rises at the start of the waterfront and is the perfect place to begin exploring.

History

It was built in the 15th century, in the early Ottoman period, on the site of an earlier Byzantine fortification, as part of the harbour's defences. It served as a garrison and prison; its grim reputation once earned it the name "Tower of Blood", until it was whitewashed and became the "White" Tower.

What you'll see

Inside, a permanent exhibition on the history of Thessaloniki unfolds across six floors around the circular internal staircase. At the top awaits a panoramic view of the gulf, the waterfront and the city.

Good to know

It sits next to the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the "Umbrellas" — you can combine them into one waterfront walk.