A visit to Thessaloniki is not complete without a visit to the White Tower (Lefkos Pyrgos), the iconic landmark of the city and a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
The White Tower is a monument and museum situated on the city’s waterfront. The present structure replaced an older Byzantine fortification, mentioned around the 12th century, and was reconstructed by the Ottomans to fortify the city’s harbor. During Ottoman rule, it served as a notorious prison and scene of mass executions. After Greece gained control of the city in 1912, it was substantially remodelled and its exterior was whitewashed, adopting its current name as a symbolic gesture of cleansing and becoming the definitive symbol of Thessaloniki.
The Tower was for centuries part of the old city walls, separating the Jewish quarter from the cemeteries of the Muslims and Jews, until the walls were demolished in 1866. Today, the Tower has a buff color but retains its historical name. Standing proudly on Nikis Avenue, it house a permanent exhibition dedicated to the history of Thessaloniki and remains one of the city’s leading attractions. The monument is administered by the Ministry of Culture.
Visitor Tip: Check the official museum opening hours if you want to explore the interior. As a bonus, reaching the top rewards you with a wonderful 360° panoramic view of the city and the Thermaic Gulf!
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