St. Sophia Church

The Church of Hagia Sophia is one of the famous and popular places not only in Thessaloniki, but all over the world. The date of its foundation is considered to be the period 527-565 years. But in 620 it was destroyed by an earthquake. The new building was built in the 7th century. In 1912 it was converted into a mosque. But eventually it became an Orthodox church again. It is a domed basilica in the Middle Byzantine style. A model for it was the church of the same name in Constantinople. In the altar vault preserved elements of the ancient mosaic of sheet gold, icons and monograms. The dome is decorated with a mosaic of the 19th century, which depicts the Ascension of the Lord. Around the dome are sculptures of 12 apostles, the Virgin Mary and two angels. The mosaic of the 20th century “The Virgin on the Throne” is placed on the altar apis. Historically, the church has survived three civilizations.

Today, the church is included in the list of objects protected by UNESCO. The church is located in the center of Thessaloniki on the square with the same name. You can get there by public transport (buses 16, 24, 50) to the stop "Saint Sophia Square".