Thessaloniki Stories

The Arch of Galerius: Triumph in Stone Located in the heart of modern Thessaloniki, the Arch of Galerius—or Kamara, as locals call it—is one of the city’s most recognizable ancient landmarks. Erected in 298–305 AD, the arch was commissioned by the Roman Emperor Galerius to celebrate his military victory over the Persians and to assert his authority within the Roman Tetrarchy. Originally part of a larger imperial complex that included Galerius’ palace and the nearby Rotunda, the arch once spanned a ceremonial processional route connecting the two structures. Today, only a portion of the original octopyle (eight-pillared) structure remains, but it still offers a striking glimpse into Roman monumental architecture. The surviving relief panels on the arch are particularly noteworthy, richly carved with scenes of battle, triumph, and imperial grandeur. These dynamic stone narratives depict Galerius in scenes of conquest, sacrifice, and divine endorsement, blending historical record with political propaganda. Set amidst the bustle of contemporary urban life, the Arch of Galerius is more than a relic—it is a visible link between Thessaloniki’s Roman past and its vibrant present, standing as a symbol of continuity, endurance, and the ever-evolving story of the city.