Thessaloniki, founded in 316/315 BC, flourished due to its strategic location and natural harbor, evolving into a significant commercial hub over the centuries. Today, it stands as Greece’s second-largest city and one of its most dynamic and cosmopolitan centers, with a metropolitan population exceeding one million. Its ongoing development, combined with its outward-looking character, makes it a key destination for travelers from around the world.
The city is also a major educational and cultural center, home to Aristotle University of Thessaloniki—one of the largest institutions in the Balkans—as well as numerous cultural and research institutions. Thessaloniki’s rich multicultural heritage, shaped by the coexistence of Greeks, Jews, Ottomans, and other communities, is reflected in its diverse architectural landmarks, historic sites, and vibrant traditions. Its history spans from the Hellenistic era through the Byzantine and Ottoman periods to modern Greece, leaving a profound legacy that defines its identity.
Despite enduring major adversities, including the Great Fire of 1917 and the Nazi occupation during World War II, Thessaloniki has demonstrated remarkable resilience. The tragic loss of its Jewish community remains a defining chapter in its history, yet the city has continually reinvented itself, embracing modern infrastructure and urban regeneration. Today, Thessaloniki thrives as a leading center of culture, history, and innovation, preserving its distinctive character while looking toward the future.
(Source: https://thessalonikiblog.com)