Ana Poli
Ano Poli (Upper Town), Thessaloniki: A Journey Through Time Perched on the hills overlooking Thessaloniki’s bustling center, Ano Poli—or the Upper Town—is the city's most historic and picturesque district. One of the few areas to survive the devastating Great Fire of 1917, Ano Poli retains its traditional charm, with winding cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era architecture, and colorful houses adorned with wooden balconies. Read more
Ano Poli (Upper Town), Thessaloniki: A Journey Through Time
Perched on the hills overlooking Thessaloniki’s bustling center, Ano Poli—or the Upper Town—is the city's most historic and picturesque district. One of the few areas to survive the devastating Great Fire of 1917, Ano Poli retains its traditional charm, with winding cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era architecture, and colorful houses adorned with wooden balconies.
This area is a living museum, where Byzantine churches, old fountains, and sections of the ancient city walls coexist with quiet tavernas and family-run guesthouses. Notable landmarks include the Trigonion Tower, the Heptapyrgion Fortress, and the Monastery of Vlatadon, offering panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf below.
Ano Poli is also rich in cultural layers, reflecting the city’s diverse past—from Byzantine and Ottoman to modern Greek influences. It’s a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking a more tranquil, authentic experience away from the city’s modern core.
A walk through Ano Poli is a journey through centuries, offering a serene escape, breathtaking vistas, and a profound connection to Thessaloniki’s enduring spirit.