What are the cultural influences of Thessaloniki?

[axariotisxy]

Thessaloniki seems to be culturally (and architecturally) different than some of the other places I've been to in Greece...does anyone know about the cultural influences in Thessaloniki? Was it maybe a prominent part of the Byzantine empire?

 

[k_tsoukalas]

It's true that Thessaloniki as a very unique vibe to it. I think there are some factors at play here:

1. There is a major university in Thessaloniki called the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. As a result there are a lot of cultural events, etc, to enjoy here, as is typical for a "college town"
2. It has a strong tie to the Byzantine Empire
3. The city was founded in 315 BC, so it has a rich history.

Here is one of the most notable landmarks in the city:

 

[francescool]

Thessaloniki has some of the best art galleries and museums in Greece! There's influence from all over the world, especially from eastern Europe and the rest of the Balkans