The Jewish Heritage of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is not only the largest port and one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. This place is not accidentally called the Mother of Israel (Madre d’Israel). Thessaloniki is the only European city where Jews made up the majority of the population during the Middle Ages. In many ways, this place, which is so proud of the Greeks, owes its unique architecture, unique color and wonderful cuisine.

**City icons**
Of course, it is impossible to visit all the historical sites that have become the true glory of the Jewish people in one short trip. But most importantly, tourists will see. Here are some of these historical monuments:

Synagogue Monastirioton, which began operating in 1927. She became a gift from Ida Aroesti. In addition, families from Monastir, a city in the former Yugoslavia, took part in its construction. The synagogue is still in operation today as a sacred site for the Jewish community of the ancient city.

Yad Lexicaron Synagogue, dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Holocaust. It was built instead of a house of prayer, which was intended to provide for the religious needs of Jews trading in the nearby market.

Aristotle Square. It is the main square of Thessaloniki, and most of the buildings near it belong to the urban Jewish community. They used to belong to wealthy Jews, as can be seen from the rich and exquisite architecture.

The Jewish Museum. Founded in 1977, it provides an opportunity to see both ancient inscriptions and tombstones found near the city walls and an exhibition dedicated to the life of Jews before World War II. The museum houses rare books and archival materials.

The train station. This is the saddest place in town. During the Nazi era, thousands of Jews were sent to concentration camps. Here you will have to feel all the pain and sorrow of those terrible times, as well as pay tribute to the memory of people who died in the name of a bright future for their children and grandchildren.

Of course, this is not the whole list of unique places that we will visit in Thessaloniki. Believe me, it is better to see it with your own eyes!

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