Rotunda

About

Situated at the heart of Thessaloniki, the Rotunda of Galerius—also known as the Rotunda of Saint George—stands as a unique testament to the city’s layered history. Originally commissioned in the early 4th‑century as an imperial mausoleum, the circular monument has been repeatedly repurposed: a Christian basilica, a mosque, and today a museum and cultural landmark under the Ephorate of Byzantine Antiquities. Visitors walk the narrow transept, admire the awe‑inspiring mosaics that depict both religious and secular scenes, and marvel at the soaring dome with its oculus reminiscent of Rome’s Pantheon. A surviving minaret on its southern side reminds guests of the Rotunda’s time as a place of Islamic worship. Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the site offers free admission on select national holidays, making it accessible to all travelers interested in Thessaloniki’s ancient past and architectural heritage.

Highlights

• Mosaic Cupola
• Ancient Minaret
• Imperial Mausoleum Origins

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Tickets & pricing