Great Ancient Forum - former trade and political center in the Roman Empire
Ancient or Roman Forum is the political and economic center of the city, that occupies a huge area in the very heart of ancient Thessaloniki. Being the most important place for public meetings, Forum consists of a large number of public institutions, such as theater, market, porticoe or a bath complex.
The part of the Roman Forum on Aristotle's Square, opened for a public visit nowadays, was discovered during the excavations in 1966. This charming place includes one of the main attractions in the city - the famous amphitheater "Voulevtirion" with capacity of 350 people. Also you can find here an extraordinary bath complex called "Valanio" and the cryptoporticus, that leads every tourist to the magnificent Museum of the Ancient Forum. The exposition here pleases both professionals and fans of archeology.
The ruins of Roman Forum benefit from attention of the tourists and don't fade among the abundance of interesting sights in Thessaloniki. The Forum was built in the 2nd century B.C. After the fall of Byzantine Empire in 168 BC, Thessaloniki became a part of Roman Empire and an important trade hub, because it contributed to the development of trade between Europe and Asia. Thessaloniki was the capital of one of four Roman Macedonia districts.
This city maintained its importance and status up to the 5th century A.D. Ancient Forum was an administrative center of Thessaloniki and this place played a huge role in the political, economic and social life of the city.
The structures and ancient artifacts, that were found as a result of archaeological excavations, made it possible to obtain invaluable information about the history and culture of the ancient Thessaloniki. Fortunately, this experience of ancient people has survived to this day.
The Forum occupies an area of about 2 hectares and represents a huge complex of buildings, such as former state institutions, public baths, shops and craft workshops. Also it has a two-level structure (leves are called as Upper Agora and Lower Agora). The Upper Agora was a square, surrounded by two rows of columns, the buildings themselves were located behind. The Lower agora consisted of vaulted semi-underground galleries.
Today the Roman Forum is an important archeological and historical monument of Thessaloniki. After the restoration this archaeological landmark is opened for visiting. Without any doubt, Ancient Forum is worth seeing - it will produce a huge impact on every lover of ancient culture.
Currently the Museum of Ancient Forum is closed. However, if you find out that it is finally opened, just get inside - you will not regret about it.
ATTENTION: One of the halls in the Museum is ONLY for adult visitors!
Ancient Forum is located a quarter above the Aristotle Square, it is within walking distance of the very center of Thessaloniki. Go up from Egnatia Str. across Aristotle Park to Filippou Str. The Forum is a few steps above.
