Arch of Galerius
About
The Arch of Galerius and the neighbouring Rotunda stand as a testament to the grandeur of fourth‑century Byzantine architecture in the heart of Thessaloniki. The arch, an octopylon with a triple archway, was erected between 298 and 303 AD to celebrate Emperor Galerius’s triumph over the Sassanids, and its sculptural panels memorialise the victory. Directly to the north lies the Rotunda, a massive circular structure with a high dome and a truncated oculus, built by Galerius for use as a mausoleum before being converted into a Christian basilica, a mosque, and finally a church. Both monuments are part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and offer visitors a unique glimpse of the city’s layered religious and imperial past. Walking through the arch’s imposing stone arches and exploring the interior of the Rotunda’s soaring dome provides an unforgettable architectural experience in the historic center of Thessaloniki.
Highlights
- Triumphal Arch of Galerius
- Sculptural Relief Panels
- Rotunda Dome
- Minaret Remnants