Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica image

Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica

Tourist attraction Place of worship Orthodox church Greek orthodox church Eastern orthodox church

One of the Best Places To Visits in Thessaloniki Municipal Unit


Address

Ag. Dimitriou, Thessaloniki 546 33, Greece

Contact

+30 231 027 0008

Rating on Google Maps

4.90 (5.4K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 6 AM to 10 PM
  • Saturday: 6 AM to 10 PM
  • Sunday: 6 AM to 10 PM
  • Monday: 6 AM to 10 PM
  • Tuesday: 6 AM to 10 PM
  • Wednesday: 6 AM to 10 PM
  • Thursday: 6 AM to 10 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: church (73) Thessaloniki (51) Saint (37) Dimitrios (34) Demetrius (29) city (24) beautiful (23) patron (21) saint (21) crypt (20)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Sam A. 8 months ago on Google • 229 reviews
    If you have a passion for history, art, and culture, then the Holy Church of Saint Demetrius in Thessaloniki is an absolute must-visit! This incredible church holds the prestigious title of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as the main sanctuary dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the beloved patron saint of Thessaloniki. It stands proudly as one of Greece's largest and most significant churches, making it an essential stop for any traveler. Prepare to be enchanted by the stunning Byzantine architecture that graces the church's façade. Inside, you will be greeted by an exquisite collection of mosaics and frescoes that are sure to take your breath away. There are a few hidden corners requiring some exploration on the visitor part and of course do not miss the crypt (basement). The crypt is the place where Saint Demetrius was martyred in the early 4th century AD. You will find there a network of chambers and tunnels that were originally used as Roman baths. However, after Saint Demetrius was martyred, the baths were converted into a crypt and a place of pilgrimage. These contains the tomb of Saint Demetrius and few of his relics. We visited the Church on mid week morning which was a joy as the Church was quite empty and easy to explore. A highly recommended visit!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dejan K. 2 years ago on Google
    The Church of Saint Demetrius, or Hagios Demetrios (Greek: Άγιος Δημήτριος), is the main sanctuary dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki, dating from a time when it was the second largest city of the Byzantine Empire. It is part of the site Palaeochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki on the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO since 1988.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 4 years ago on Google
    A large and beautiful church, located in the center of the city and bearing the patron saint of Thessaloniki (the city bears the name of the sister of the great Alexander). The first church was built in the 4th century after Christ. Over time, it has developed, just so that during the Ottoman occupation it was transformed into a mosque. Later, it returned to its original destination. Inside, on the left, the relics of St. Dumitru can be seen, and besides the small cistern on the left of the altar, it can penetrate into the underground of the church, in the catacombs that reveal its true history. Inside, you can admire some incredibly beautiful mosaics dating back to the sixth century after Christ. A true monument of history, not just a wonderful place of worship. O biserică mare și frumoasă, situată în centrul orașului și purtând hramul Sf. Dumitru, patronul orașului Thessaloniki (orașul poartă numele surorii marelui Alexandru). Prima biserică a fost construită prin sec. al IV-lea după Hristos. În timp s-a dezvoltat, tocmai bine pentru ca în timpul ocupației otomane să fie transformată în moschee. Ulterior s-a revenit la destinația inițială. În interior, în partea stângă, se pot vedea moaștele Sf. Dumitru, iar pe lângă mica cișmea aflată în stânga altarului se poate pătrunde în subteranul bisericii, în catacombele care ne dezvăluie adevărata ei istorie. Tot la interior se pot admira câteva mozaicuri incredibil de frumoase, datând de prin secolul al VI-lea după Hristos. Un adevărat monument al istoriei, nu doar un minunat lăcaș de cult.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The church is dedicated to Agios Dimitrios, the patron saint of the city. It is located on the homonymous street and is a five-aisled basilica of the "Hellenistic type". According to tradition, the first church of the patron saint of Thessaloniki was built in the 4th AD on the ruins of a Roman bath, in the place where Dimitrios is said to have martyred. Later, in the 5th century AD. the prefect built the large three-aisled basilica that was destroyed in 634 by fire. The church was rebuilt larger, with five aisles, but had the same fate in the fire of 1917. The patron saint's temple was restored in 1948. (Original) Ο ναός είναι αφιερωμένος στον Άγιο Δημήτριο, τον πολιούχο της πόλης. Βρίσκεται στην ομώνυμη οδό και είναι πεντάκλιτη βασιλική του "ελληνιστικού τύπου". Σύμφωνα με την παράδοση, η πρώτη εκκλησία του πολιούχου της Θεσσαλονίκης χτίστηκε τον 4ο μ.Χ πάνω στα ερείπια ρωμαϊκού λουτρού, στο χώρο όπου φέρεται ότι μαρτύρησε ο Δημήτριος. Αργότερα, τον 5ο αιώνα μ.Χ. ο έπαρχος έχτισε τη μεγάλη τρίκλιτη βασιλική που καταστράφηκε το 634 από πυρκαγιά. Η εκκλησία ξαναχτίστηκε μεγαλύτερη, με πέντε κλίτη, αλλά είχε την ίδια τύχη στην πυρκαγιά του 1917. Ο ναός του πολιούχου αναστηλώθηκε το 1948.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Yoldayım 1 month ago on Google • 1495 reviews New
    It is a building that represents the city of Thessaloniki very well. We went during the service, it had a different and mystical atmosphere. It is a historical building that must be visited in Thessaloniki
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aleksandar M. 4 years ago on Google
    [December 2019] One of the most amazing ortodox churches I've ever seen. So many relics of the saints you can pray to and admire too! St.Demetrios is patron saint of Thessaloniki. The church is built on the ruins of the Roman baths, where in 303.ad Roman officier Dimitrios was martyred. It was a small prayer house which is located today in the crypt, under the church altar. In 400's, a subprefect Lenotius Illyria, healled by St.Dimitrios, built a 3 nave basilica. Rebuilt after a fire in the 7th century, as 5 naval basilica. Burned again in 1917 and rebuilt using original materials. Recommend!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Norm Bour -Travel Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Even if you are not familiar with the history of the church it is definitely worth a visit. You must go down below into the catacombs which have been modified and worked on for centuries.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 George P. 2 years ago on Google
    An impressive Byzantine church of the patron saint of Thessaloniki. Mind the hours of the crypt are limited if you're looking to see it. Note that crypt hours are limited!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hopi W. 1 month ago on Google • 82 reviews New
    This magnificent church was the highlight of our Thessaloniki trip. Walking in you feel the spiritual aura embrace you. Saint Demetrius, we were informed by a local, is the protector of the city. We noticed a line of parishioners to the left of the altar waiting their turn to enter the white round structure that housed Saint Demetrius’s picture. Speaking to two separate locals, one mentioned she prayed for anything that she needed divine blessings for, and another mentioned prayers were usually for the young as saint Demetrius died when he was fairly young. As we were about to leave, John who we were about to purchase a momento from, asked us if we visited the crypt in the lower level. We are profoundly grateful to this kind stranger. Because of him, we had the most incredible experience. We walked down the steps expecting to find a small crypt, but it was a huge ancient excavated site where the remains of Saint Demetrius was discovered (facing the altar, steps are on the right of the altar, at the back). We appreciated the English translations as the history of this religious site is incredible.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    Church of Agios Dimitrios is a beautiful monumental church, located in the very heart of Thessaloniki. The church is beautiful both from the outside and from the inside. Inside it is richly decorated with spectacular Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church and Saint Demetrius is extremely interesting. Saint Demetrius or Agios Dimitrios, (208 AD-303 AD) is the patron saint of Thessaloniki. He was the son of a wealthy military commander of Thessaloniki and received a good education as a child. He also joined the army and became an officer. When he was young, he decided to secretly baptized Christian, something forbidden those years. When his father died, the Roman Emperor Maximian ordered him to chase and kill the Christians of Thessaloniki. Dimitrios refused to do so and revealed his faith. He was asked to change his religious beliefs but refused once again and expressed his disgust for idolatry. Therefore, he was put to prison, was tortured and died for his God. Before he died, he donated all his wealth to the poor. His bravery and sacrifice made him an Orthodox saint. Later years people built a small church on the martyrdom of Agios Dimitrios. Over the years the church has become magnificent and significant. The Ottomans made Agios Dimitrios a mosque, and plastered over frescoes that were again revealed after the 1913 Greek reconquest. While the city's devastating fire of 1917 was very damaging, five 8th-century mosaics survive, spanning the altar. The martyrdom site is now an underground crypt. The Crypt and underground site is especially interesting place. Saint Dimitrios relics occupy a silver reliquary inside. His grave was said to be miraculous and thousands of pilgrims were coming every year to pay their honors. What to say, magnificent.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 5 years ago on Google
    One of the places where heaven meets earth, divine place, Saint protector of Thessaloniki, Agios Dimitrios deserves such beautiful Church.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alan B. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely church interior which I was able to wander around inside. Just try and be respectful of people privately praying. Make a € donation, these places don't sustain themselves without your contribution as there is no entry fee when tourist viewing.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 4 years ago on Google
    Very old church, very interesting building special inside
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pio 1 year ago on Google
    The Church of Saint Demetrius is the main sanctuary dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki , dating from a time when it was the second largest city of the Byzantine Empire. It is part of the site Palaeochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki on the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO since 1988. The first church on the spot was constructed in the early 4th century AD, replacing a Roman bath. A century later, a prefect named Leontios replaced the small oratory with a larger, three-aisled basilica. Repeatedly gutted by fires, the church eventually was reconstructed as a five-aisled basilica in 629–634. This was the surviving form of the church much as it is today. The most important shrine in the city, it was probably larger than the local cathedral
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Pieter Jan S. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice when it's hot outside. Historically interesting place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sophia P. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the main churchies in Thessaloniki in the name of st. Demetrius patron of the city. From 4th century AD it withstood Latin and Ottoman Empires, was a mosque for 4 centuries and just survived the great Thessaloniki fire. it was rebuilt with the tombstones from Jewish cemeteries destroyed by the Nazies in 1940s
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    The most beautiful Orthodox church I have ever been to.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lizzie S. 10 months ago on Google • 380 reviews
    I was lucky to be here on a Sunday with a baptism being held, it was moving and felt special. This is very much an active church, you need to be suitably dressed and respectful of worshippers. There are many icons devout Orthodox Christians were kissing and praying at. As a tourist it can be hard to see past the showy gold of the icons but take at least half an hour to walk peacefully in the church. You may like to write a slip of paper for a prayer for a loved one or light a candle. Whatever the weather, a good reprieve and space to gather your thoughts.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 soe s. 2 months ago on Google • 142 reviews New
    Probably one of the largest churches in Greece, not only in Thessaloniki, a true symbol of Orthodoxy. It contains numerous holy relics, including those of Saint Demetrius, icons, frescoes, mosaics and other religious objects of great value and significance. You can also enter the basement area, the crypt, where the remains of Saint Demetrius were found. For believers visiting Thessaloniki, a visit to this holy place is mandatory
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 G M. 5 months ago on Google • 135 reviews
    A beautiful building with an amazing crypt. A very busy church as there are many icons and the remains of St Dimitrios which has a constant line of those wishing to pray. The crypt is wonderful. The stairs are a little hard to find. When you enter the church go to the far right hand aisle and go to the end and they are just to the left. There are toilets to the left of the buildings but squat toilets.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Patron and protector of Thessaloniki is Agios Dimitrios Myrovlytis. The worship of Agios Dimitrios is inextricably linked with the history of the city and the belief that the Saint protects them and lives among them is widespread among the Thessalonians, from the first Christian years until today. Access to the temple is easy for the visitor. It is located in the center of Thessaloniki, north of the Roman market just 5 minutes walk from Aristotelous Square. The basilica of Agios Dimitrios is 43.58 meters long and 33 meters wide, is divided by four colonnades into five galleries and its capitals are crowned with patches. The lighting in the middle and larger aisle is plentiful, the colonnades imposing. The multitude of windows, the richness in the quality and variety of sculpture, the mosaics and the frescoes are valuable evidence of the history of painting over the centuries and make the temple one of the most important Christian monuments. Agios Dimitrios came from a noble family of Thessaloniki. As a young man he served in the Roman army with a distinguished career. After embracing Christianity, he devoted his life to teaching the new religion. (Original) Πολιούχος και προστάτης της Θεσσαλονίκης είναι ο Άγιος Δημήτριος ο Μυροβλύτης. Η λατρεία του Αγίου Δημητρίου είναι άρρηκτα συνυφασμένη με την ιστορία της πόλης και η πεποίθηση πως ο Άγιος τους προστατεύει και κατοικεί ανάμεσά τους είναι ευρύτατα διαδεδομένη στους Θεσσαλονικείς, από τα πρώτα χριστιανικά χρόνια ως και σήμερα. Η πρόσβαση στο ναό είναι εύκολη για τον επισκέπτη. Βρίσκεται στο κέντρο της Θεσσαλονίκης, βόρεια της Ρωμαϊκής αγοράς μόλις 5 λεπτά με τα πόδια από την πλατεία Αριστοτέλους. Η βασιλική του Αγίου Δημητρίου έχει μήκος 43,58 μέτρα και 33 μέτρα πλάτος, χωρίζεται με τέσσερις κιονοστοιχίες σε πέντε στοές και τα κιονόκρανα του στέφονται με επιθέματα. Ο φωτισμός στο μεσαίο και μεγαλύτερο κλίτος είναι άπλετος, οι κιονοστοιχίες επιβλητικές. Το πλήθος των παραθύρων, ο πλούτος στην ποιότητα και την ποικιλία της γλυπτικής, τα ψηφιδωτά και οι τοιχογραφίες αποτελούν πολύτιμα τεκμήρια της ιστορίας της ζωγραφικής στο πέρασμα των αιώνων και καθιστούν το ναό ένα από τα σημαντικότερα χριστιανικά μνημεία. Ο Άγιος Δημήτριος καταγόταν από αρχοντική οικογένεια της Θεσσαλονίκης. Ως νέος υπηρετούσε στον ρωμαϊκό στρατό με εξέχουσα σταδιοδρομία. Αφού ασπάστηκε τον χριστιανισμό, αφιέρωσε τη ζωή του στη διδασκαλία της νέας θρησκείας.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The first temple was a small prayer house founded after 313 AD at the place of martyrdom of St. Demetrius. In 904 the temple was pillaged by the Saracens. In the 13th century the church was repaired and renovated. At that time the chapel of Agios Efthimios was also built on the southeast side of the church of Agios Dimitrios. In 1492-93 the church was converted into a mosque named Casimir Mosque. During the great fire that destroyed 2/3 of the city in August 1917 it burned down almost completely and was restored in 1948 retaining much of its architectural features. In 1988 the temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Original) Ο πρώτος ναός ήταν ένα μικρό προσευχητάριο που ιδρύθηκε μετά το 313 μ.Χ.στον τόπο μαρτυρίου του Αγίου Δημητρίου. Το 904 ο ναός λεηλατήθηκε από τους Σαρακηνούς. Το 13ο αιώνα ο ναός επισκευάστηκε και ανακαινίστηκε. Την εποχή εκείνη χτίστηκε και το παρεκκλήσι του Αγίου Ευθυμίου στην νοτιοανατολική πλευρά του ναού του Αγίου Δημητρίου . Το 1492-93 ο ναός μετατράπηκε σε τζαμί με το όνομα Κασιμιέ Τζαμί. Κατά τη διάρκεια της μεγάλης πυρκαγιάς η οποία κατέστρεψε τα 2/3 της πόλης τον Αύγουστο του 1917 κάηκε σχεδόν ολοκληρωτικά και αναστηλώθηκε το 1948 διατηρώντας αρκετά από τα αρχιτεκτονικά του στοιχεία. Το 1988 ο ναός ανακηρύχθηκε Μνημείο Παγκόσμιας Κληρονομιάς από την UNESCO.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bistra K. 2 years ago on Google
    The Church of St. Demetrius is the patron saint of Thessaloniki, it is among the most visited sights of the city. The building lies on old Roman baths. The temple was built in the 4th century AD. In the 5th century it was rebuilt into a three-building basilica. After a large fire, only the ruins of the present-day church remain of the basilica. This happened in 629-634. A hexagonal tomb lined with silver is kept in St. Demetrius, and there is a bed on the tomb on which no one rests, and it is believed that the structure has a symbolic meaning rather than a real tomb. Very beautiful place!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful church. A must see
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Veselina H. 2 years ago on Google
    Very interesting holy place. The crypt is fascinating
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Citimania 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful structure
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Awesome! (Original) Impresionante!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    The church of The patron Saint of Thessaloniki ; My grandfather was named after this saint ; My time spent there was in his honour. Holy place exquisite construction building .
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 pts p. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely fantastic building and visit!!!!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Georg P. 6 years ago on Google
    One of the biggest Cathedrals in Greece and maybe the biggest in Thessaloniki, as far as i have personally visited. It is worth spending an hour of your time visiting this Temple if you are in the neighbourhood, no matter of your religion. Amazing interior Architekture, with breathtaking Ikones taken direkt from the bible. This is not only a Cathedral, or a symbol of faith or Christianity, but also this is a Monument. The Temple itself was build in 413 a.C. It has a life of more than 16 centuries.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Olaf L. 1 year ago on Google
    Nicely decorated church with a crypt. We visited the church on Sunday and it was very crowded, just like a bazar.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Serhat G. 1 year ago on Google
    If you are interested in religious places, don't leave Thessaloniki without visiting this church.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Basilica of St. Demetrius (Original) Базиліка святого Дмитрія
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Александър �. 1 year ago on Google
    A historically important and completely renovated church. (after the fire in the beginning of 20th century)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    ΕΧΩ ΠΑΕΙ ΠΑΣΧΑ ΠΡΙΝ ΤΟ ΕΤΟΣ ΚΑΡΑΝΤΙΝΑΣ ΚΑΙ ΗΤΑΝ ΤΕΛΕΙΟ ΠΑΡΟΛΟ ΠΟΥ Ο ΚΟΣΜΟΣ ΕΚΑΝΕ ΟΥΡΕΣ ΜΙΣΟ ΧΙΛΙΟΜΕΤΡΟ ΓΙΑ ΝΑ ΜΠΕΙΣΤΟΝ ΝΑΟ.ΕΙΝΑΙ ΤΕΛΕΙΟ ΟΧΙ ΜΟΝΟ ΣΑΝ ΝΑΟΣ ΠΟΥ ΕΙΝΑΙ ΣΤΟΛΙΔΗ ΑΛΛΑ ΚΑΙ ΑΠΟ ΤΟΥΣ ΠΗΣΤΟΥΣ ΠΟΥ ΕΙΝΑΙ ΠΟΛΥ ΕΥΓΕΝΙΚΟΙ
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stanimir D. 8 months ago on Google
    The Church of Saint Demetrius, or Hagios Demetrios, is the main sanctuary dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki, dating from a time when it was the second largest city of the Byzantine Empire. Since 1988, it has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List as a part of the site Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments of Thessaloniki.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 5 years ago on Google
    Peace Great orthodox church in heart of city. Wonderful architecture, place with tomb of St Dimitrius. "Must see" place, For sitting and feel spiritual peace.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ilias V. 6 years ago on Google
    Beautiful Orthodox Church of Thessaloniki. The biggest church of Thessaloniki and one of the biggest of Greece, if not the biggest one. Beautiful interior decoration and the underground part of the church is really interesting and worth taking a look at it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 A Google U. 4 years ago on Google
    Saint Dimitrios is one of three churches in Thessaloniki you should definitely visit even if you are not interested in religion. In the late 3rd century the persecution of christianity was reaching a climax under the Emperors Galerius and Diocletian. At the same time, in Thessaloniki inhabited a young Roman soldier with a name Dimitrios. Talented, bright and a preacher of christianity. The latter made him very unpopular to the Emperor and Dimitrios found himself prisoner in a Roman bath - it sounds weird, I know. In the same bath, Dimitrios received a visitor and follower named Nestoras. Nestoras had the fine idea to fight against the undefeated champion of the emperor Liaios. With the blaising of Dimitrios and the will to revenge the christian persecutors, Nestoras, in a David vs Goliath type of battle, managed to defeat his enemy despite the overwhelming odds. When the emperor asked him how he managed to accomplish such a miraculous did, Nestoras got somewhat cocky: It was the love and power of the one God that aided me - the God of Dimitrios. Galerios, offended, ordered the execution of both him and Dimitrios with the latter finding a bitter end with 33 spears (symbolic) piercing through his ribs. In the aftermath of the event, the christians hid his buddy in the well not to be dishonored by the pagans. Soon later, christianity became a legal religion and at the spot raised a small church. The great basilica was built about a century later by the Leondios, the prefix of the region when he, in a desperate attempt to cure his untreatable disease, tasted the miracle water of Dimitrios and became all well. Sandly, the church has been entirely destroyed twice with the last one being during the Great Fire of Thessaloniki in 1917. However, the church has been well remade and currently operates with regular services. If you visit, and you should, make sure to check the crypt: the underground space where the original bath used to be. Fun fact: the city of Thessaloniki was liberated to the Ottomans on the anniversary of its patron Saint - Dimitrios: 26th of October 1912.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A Google U. 4 years ago on Google
    We visited this holy church in 2016. There are many relics, especially the ones of Sf Dimitrious. I love this place.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 K H. 5 months ago on Google • 570 reviews
    One of the many churches that we dropped in on while in Greece. It was very nice to see different from anything that we have at home.

  • 5/5 Phil W. 6 months ago on Google • 221 reviews
    Visited as part of a guided tour. What a spectacular place, I'm not religious but this is still somewhere you should definitely visit if you're in Thessaloniki. So beautiful inside and so much history too see. The crypt below was my highlight.

  • 5/5 Goran 6 months ago on Google • 141 reviews
    Church is dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the patron saint of Thessaloniki. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • 5/5 Bogdan I. 6 months ago on Google • 123 reviews
    The stunning place: a pilgrimage to all Orthodox people and also a beautiful church for others. You can feel divine peace inside. There are catacombs (a crypth) under the church where we can see the remains of the old church.

  • 4/5 Bassem Al B. 5 months ago on Google • 83 reviews
    One of the Most Beautiful Churches that We’ve Been to ✨✨ Incredible Icons and Mosaic Illustrations are Uncovered on Most of the Walls I Believe that Additional Measures Should Be Implemented to Ease the Access for Babies Trolleys and People of Determination

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Saint Demetrius is everything to me ..... next to my whole life ..... watchful guardian angel (Original) Ο Άγιος Δημήτριος είναι τά πάντα για μένα..... δίπλα σέ όλη μου τη ζωή..... άγρυπνος φύλακας άγγελος

  • 5/5 Y H. 3 weeks ago on Google • 19 reviews New
    Very beautiful church service on Sundays - fully packed congregation with a range of local people (young adults, families, senior citizens). You can feel the sanctity of the church as well as the divine essence encompassed within the grounds. The incense used during the service was beautiful. The catacombs downstairs are very fascinating as well. The staff could be a bit friendlier (not the people leading the service but the ones responsible for replenishing candles and maintenance of the building).

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) beautiful Church in the patron saint of Thessaloniki with a long history (Original) πανεμορφη Εκκλησία στον πολιουχο της Θεσσαλονίκης με μεγαλη ιστορια

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The absolute immersion and the history of the catacombs is a pole of attraction !!! (Original) Η απόλυτη κατάνυξη και η ιστορία των κατακομβων ειναι πόλος έλξης!!!

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The temple is located in the city center on the street of the same name, near the archeological complex, which you can also visit. Access to the church and the crypt is free. The saint, who is the patron saint of Thessaloniki and whose relics are in the church, was born in the city. The church was built for ten years in the period from 313 to 323. It was set on fire several times. In 1493 it was turned into a mosque and was so until 1912. In 1917 the temple again almost completely burned down in a fire. Its restoration began in 1926 and ended on October 26, 1949, when the church was consecrated again and services began to be held there. The crypt today is a museum, and it is the place where, according to legend, St. was killed. Dimitar. There is a preserved well in it. The temple is very beautiful, there are very well preserved and restored mosaics and frescoes. (Original) Храмът се намира в центъра на града на едноименната улица, близо до археологически комплекс, който също може да посетите. Достъпът до църквата и криптата е свободен. Светецът, който е патрон на Солун и чийто мощи се намират в църквата, е роден в града. Църквата е построена за десет години в периода от 313 до 323 г. Няколко пъти е опожарявана. През 1493 г. е превърната в джамия и е била такава до 1912 г. През 1917 г. храмът отново почти напълно е изгорял в пожар. Възстановяването и започва през 1926 г. и завършва на 26.Х.1949 г., когато отново е осветена църквата и в нея започват да се извършват богослужения. Криптата днес е музей, а тя е мястото, в което, според легендата е бил убит Св. Димитър. Има съхранен кладенец в нея. Храмът е много красив, има много добре запазени и възстановени мозайки и стенописи.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Unique Temple (Original) Μοναδικός Ναός

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A very bright place of the city, a very beautiful basilica. (Original) Очень светое место города очень красивое базилика.

  • 5/5 Jozefina 1 year ago on Google
    It would help if you visited this place. This church is one of the UNESCO objects. Museo is on the floor below. And everything incredibly beautiful! I felt the power of God.

  • 5/5 George M. 1 year ago on Google
    It is the most central basilica of the city and the belief that Saint Dimitrios protects them and lives among them is widely spread among the Thessalonians, from the first Christian years until today. Access to the temple is easy for the visitor. It is located in the center of Thessaloniki, north of the Roman Agora, just 5 minutes' walk from Aristotelous Square. The basilica of Agios Dimitrios is 43.58 meters long and 33 meters wide. On one side of the Temple are the relics of Saint Demetrius, while on the other side are the stairs to the basement of the Temple. The Christians buried the body of Saint Dimitrios in the place where he was martyred in an underground gallery, directly below the current Basilica. Today this point is the Crypt that is accessible to visitors. It is located below the main temple and is part of an older Roman bath. Opening hours: 08.30-14.30.

  • 5/5 Mert Y. 1 year ago on Google
    there was a wonderful smell in all over the church, i recomending this place is worth to see, for sure.

  • 5/5 Valia D. 1 year ago on Google
    Great beautiful church in the heart of the town. The biggest and important. Recommended.

  • 5/5 Nektaria A. 11 months ago on Google
    A must see if visiting Thessaloniki. The long-standing church is seen as the protector of this beautiful city. There is a tremendous amount of history behind this place of worship no matter your beliefs. I would recommend you visit.

  • 5/5 Manea B. 11 months ago on Google
    It is a very large church eith a big altar, big columns, very beautifull icons and picturea on the walls, and here is the relics of Saint Demetrius.

  • 5/5 Bogdan G. 1 year ago on Google
    Impressive Byzantine church.

  • 5/5 Gunay S. 9 months ago on Google
    I am not a christian or a relegious person but i liked the ambience and the history of the building. It was not that crowded while I was there. I stumbled upon the baptismal ceremony. Visually it was atmospheric and interesting.

  • 5/5 Gherasim S. 10 months ago on Google
    Wonderful experience. Grace, peace, beauty. the presence of Saint Demetrius surrounded by all the Tessaloniki saints is very impressive and alive.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    Υπέροχος ναός...!!!!!

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    Αγαπημένε μας Άγιε, φέτος μας έδωσες το μεγαλύτερο θαύμα, την υγεία μας, με τη χάρη Του Θεού!! Δώσαμε υπόσχεση, να σε επισκεπτόμαστε κι άλλες φορές, όχι μόνο στη γιορτή σου 💜💜💜

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    Един древен, православен, християнски храм за поклонение и уединение с Господ, в който са съхранени мощите на Св. Димитър. Архитектурата и външният му вид не впечатляват особено, но вътре е нещо съвсем друго, което си заслужава да се види и усети.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 6 years ago on Google
    One of the oldest churchea in Thessaloniki, with the first one founded in the 2nd century. A lot of history especially if you visit the crypt. English signs to be added very soon but still worth visiting. A must in the city.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 5 years ago on Google
    Looks colossal and rich. A lot of beautiful paintings with wooden frames and gold details.

  • 4/5 A Google U. 5 years ago on Google
    One of the nicer churches in the city. Old iconography and frescos make it worth stopping in.

  • 5/5 Sarah M. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to visit, I enjoyed Thessaloniki, especially visiting their famous churches. Will be back hopefully sooner.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    Must see

  • 1/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) I do not like it at all and I will not go (Original) Δεν μου αρέσει καθόλου μα καθόλου και δεν θα παω

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A special place, don't forget to visit and the catacombs near the altar go down some stairs. (Original) Un loc deosebit, sa nu uitati sa vizitati si catacombele langa altar se coboara pe niste scari.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Religious reverence for the sanctuary of the place but also for the history of the temple and the place. Perfect architecture. (Original) Θρησκευτική ευλάβεια προς το ιερό του χώρου αλλά και προς την ιστορία του ναού και του τόπου. Τέλεια αρχιτεκτονική.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Imposing temple. Ornament for our Thessaloniki (Original) Επιβλητικόσ ναος. Στολιδι για τη Θεσσαλονικη μας

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful church

  • 4/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) How many square feet is the Temple? (Original) Ποσα τετραγωνικα ειναι ο Ναος.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) From the most beautiful churches of Thessaloniki (Original) Από τις ομορφότερες εκκλησίες της Θεσσαλονίκης

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful church

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Very beautiful, a corner of heaven !!! (Original) Foarte frumoasă, un colț de rai!!!

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Amen (Original) Amin

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The Church of Agios Dimitrios is located in Thessaloniki and is dedicated to Agios Dimitrios, the patron saint of the city. It is located on the homonymous street and is a five-aisled basilica of the "Hellenistic type", but with many special and rare features compared to other temples of the same period in Greece. It has a transverse aisle and rich painting and marble decoration with ornate capitals. In the basement of the temple is the place of martyrdom of the Saint. From his mosaics, the one depicting the Saint with two small children stands out and another, which depicts the Saint between the bishop and the prefect, who renovated the church in the 7th century. The church is a wooden-roofed building, without a dome, with floor plan dimensions of 43.58 m in length and 33 m in width. The existence of an atrium remains unknown. The entrance to the narthex is made by two doors on the west wall of the church, which correspond to the inner sides (north and south aisle), while entrance doors also exist on the north and south walls of the basilica. From the narrow narthex that is smaller than the temple (the southern aisle serves as a staircase), passing through the tribule we enter the main temple. The tribulus is an opening in the center of the narthex and is formed by two columns of green Thessalian marble. Internally it is divided by four rows of marble colonnades into five aisles, while a sixth aisle is formed perpendicular to the previous ones, where the Holy Table and the Sanctuary are located. The middle aisle, wider than the other four, is elevated and dominates as a volume, while the sides are housed in steps with roofs, allowing the creation of multi-aisled windows on the side walls (single-walled, double-walled and multi-walled). In most of the church, especially in the lower parts, the old masonry is preserved, formed by anisodomic masonry and brick structures that follow the arches of the openings, windows or doors. (Original) Ο Ναός του Αγίου Δημητρίου βρίσκεται στη Θεσσαλονίκη και είναι αφιερωμένος στον Άγιο Δημήτριο, τον πολιούχο της πόλης. Βρίσκεται στην ομώνυμη οδό και είναι πεντάκλιτη βασιλική του «ελληνιστικού τύπου», αλλά με πολλά ιδιαίτερα και σπάνια χαρακτηριστικά σε σχέση με άλλους ναούς της ίδιας περιόδου στην Ελλάδα. Διαθέτει εγκάρσιο κλίτος και πλούσιο ζωγραφικό και μαρμάρινο διάκοσμο με περίτεχνα κιονόκρανα. Στο υπόγειο του ναού βρίσκεται ο χώρος μαρτυρίου του Αγίου. Από τα ψηφιδωτά του, ξεχωρίζει αυτό που απεικονίζει τον ίδιο τον Άγιο με δύο μικρά παιδιά και ένα άλλο, που απεικονίζει τον Άγιο ανάμεσα στον επίσκοπο και στον έπαρχο, οι οποίοι ανακαίνισαν το ναό τον 7ο αι. Ο ναός είναι ένα ξυλόστεγο κτίσμα, χωρίς θόλο, με διαστάσεις κάτοψης 43,58 μ. μήκος και 33 μ. πλάτος. Η ύπαρξη αιθρίου παραμένει άγνωστη. Η είσοδος στο νάρθηκα γίνεται από δύο θύρες στο δυτικό τοίχο του ναού, που αντιστοιχούν στα εσωτερικά πλάγια (βόρειο και νότιο κλίτος), ενώ θύρες εισόδου υπάρχουν και στο βόρειο και νότιο τοίχο της βασιλικής. Από το στενό νάρθηκα που είναι μικρότερος από το ναό (το νότιο κλίτος χρησιμεύει σαν κλιμακοστάσιο), περνώντας από το τρίβηλο μπαίνουμε στον κυρίως ναό. Το τρίβηλο είναι ένα άνοιγμα στο κέντρο του νάρθηκα και σχηματίζεται από δύο κίονες από πράσινο θεσσαλικό μάρμαρο. Εσωτερικά χωρίζεται με τέσσερις σειρές μαρμάρινων κιονοστοιχιών σε πέντε κλίτη, ενώ ένα έκτο κλίτος διαμορφώνεται κάθετα στα προηγούμενα, όπου βρίσκονται η Αγία Τράπεζα και το Ιερό. Το μεσαίο κλίτος, πιο πλατύ από τα άλλα τέσσερα, υπερυψώνεται και κυριαρχεί σαν όγκος, ενώ τα πλάγια στεγάζονται κλιμακωτά με στέγες δίνοντας τη δυνατότητα να δημιουργηθούν πολύκλιτα παράθυρα στους πλάγιους τοίχους (μονόβολα, δίβολα και πολύβολα). Στο μεγαλύτερο μέρος του ναού, ιδιαίτερα στα κατώτατα τμήματα, διατηρείται η παλιά τοιχοποιία διαμορφωμένη από ανισόδομη αργολιθοδομή και πλινθοδομές που ακολουθούν τα τόξα των ανοιγμάτων, παραθύρων ή θυρών.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Sublime building in honor of God (Original) Erhabenes Bauwerk zu Ehren Gottes

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) I entered it when I went to Greece, I recommend it very well. (Original) Yunanistan'a gittiğim zaman girmiştim içerisi çok güzel tavsiye ederim.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Here are the remains of the patron saint Agios Dimitrios. (Original) Εδώ είναι τα λείψανα του πολιούχου Αγίου Δημητρίου.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Church dedicated to Agios Dimitrios, the patron saint of Thessaloniki. It is a five-aisled basilica and has a rich painting and marble decoration with ornate capitals and mosaics. Inside there are also the relics of the Saint in a special area. In the basement of the temple is the place of martyrdom of the Saint. A large pilgrimage takes place on the feast day of the Saint on October 26. (Original) Εκκλησία αφιερωμένη στον Άγιο Δημήτριο, τον πολιούχο της Θεσσαλονίκης. Είναι πεντάκλιτη βασιλική και διαθέτει πλούσιο ζωγραφικό και μαρμάρινο διάκοσμο με περίτεχνα κιονόκρανα και ψηφιδωτά. Μέσα υπάρχουν και τα λείψανα του Αγίου σε ειδικό χώρο. Στο υπόγειο του ναού βρίσκεται ο χώρος μαρτυρίου του Αγίου. Μεγάλο προσκύνημα γίνεται την ημέρα γιορτής του Αγίου στις 26 Οκτωβρίου.

  • 5/5 לובנה אבו �. 2 years ago on Google
    Very beautiful church

  • 5/5 Athanasios T. 2 years ago on Google
    A church with long history. Patron of Thessaloniki, St. Demetrios. Beautiful Vasiliki church including lots of interesting artifacts to see. visit the catacomb and the Saint's tomb. Unique experience.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Overnight temple with a very pleasant aura! You come in and calm down from the first moment. The catacombs in the basement of the temple are very impressive and admirable! It is worth visiting the church of Agios Dimitrios even if you are not a Christian or a church person (Original) Κατανυκτικός ναός και με πολύ ευχάριστη αύρα! Μπαίνεις και ηρεμείς απ' την πρώτη κι' όλας στιγμή. Οι κατακόμβες στον υπόγειο χώρο του ναού πολύ εντυπωσιακές και αξιοθαύμαστες! Αξίζει να επισκεφτεί κανείς τον ναό του Αγίου Δημητρίου ακόμη και να μην είναι Χριστιανός ή της εκκλησίας άνθρωπος

  • 5/5 Anthony M. 3 years ago on Google
    It is worth seeing for its history and old roman bath in the crypt. Old french style toilets except the didabled toilet but with no toilet paper in the garden along with grapevines.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The protector of our city !!!!!!!! (Original) Ο προστάτης της πόλης μας!!!!!!!!

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A beautiful historic church. (Original) Μια πανέμορφη ιστορική εκκλησία.

  • 5/5 A Google U. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Wonderful especially the week before his celebration before 26/10 (Original) Υπέροχα ιδίως τη βδομάδα πριν τη γιορτή του πριν τις 26/10

  • 4/5 Carlos M. 1 year ago on Google
    The biggest church in Greece says it all. Many areas to be explored inside. Very solemn and peaceful. There are evangelists inside, though.

  • 5/5 Oleg P. 1 year ago on Google
    Old church, many old articles. The body of St. Demetrios is in there.


Call +30 231 027 0008 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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