Thessaloniki Jewish Heritage Apr 2026

Visit the (pre-registration is usually necessary for security).

A 3–4 hour tour typically covers the following in the city center: Start at (Holocaust Memorial). Walk to the Jewish Museum on Aghios Minas Street. Explore the surrounding Valaoritou area and Modiano Market .

Thessaloniki, once known as the "Mother of Israel" and the "Jerusalem of the Balkans," was a major Sephardic Jewish center for centuries. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this rich, tragic, and enduring history through a specialized heritage tour. 1. Key Historical Sites & Landmarks Monasteriotes Synagogue Thessaloniki, Greece Thessaloniki Jewish Heritage

Built in 1926 by Sephardic Jews from Monastir (now Bitola), this is one of the only synagogues to survive WWII because it was used as a Red Cross warehouse. It remains an active place of worship. Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki History museum ClosedThessaloniki, Greece

A powerful monument, known as the "Menorah in Flames," which commemorates the over 50,000 Thessaloniki Jews who were sent to concentration camps. Agora Modiano Thessaloniki, Greece Explore the surrounding Valaoritou area and Modiano Market

Located in the center, this historic market was designed by Eli Modiano, a Jewish architect, and was once a thriving commercial area with many Jewish merchants. Villa Allatini Heritage building Thessaloniki, Greece

These stunning villas in the eastern part of the city were built by prominent Jewish families (Allatini and Fernandez-Diaz, respectively) in the early 20th century, representing the economic prosperity of the community. 2. Recommended Walking Route (Self-Guided or Guided) Holocaust Memorial at Eleftherias Square

Located in a restored 1904 building (formerly the Bank of Salonika), this museum is essential. It houses archives, photos, and artifacts that tell the story of the community from the 15th-century expulsion from Spain through the devastation of the Holocaust. Holocaust Memorial at Eleftherias Square