Rotunda (St George)
An imposing 4th-century Roman rotunda, a UNESCO monument with early-Christian mosaics.
About
The Rotunda is one of Thessaloniki's most imposing monuments: a vast circular building that has stood almost unchanged for 17 centuries, a witness to every era of the city.
History
It was built in the early 4th century under Emperor Galerius, most likely as a mausoleum or temple, as part of his palace complex together with the Arch. It became a Christian church (St George) and later a mosque under the Ottomans — its minaret still survives beside it.
What you'll see
The highlight is the rare early-Christian mosaics in the dome, with a gold ground and figures of saints and architecture — among the most important of their kind in the world.
UNESCO
It is one of the 15 Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1988. It stands just metres above the Arch of Galerius.
FAQs
Why is the Rotunda important?
It is a 4th-century Roman monument with rare early-Christian mosaics and is one of the city's UNESCO monuments.
What is nearby?
It sits right above the Arch of Galerius (Kamara), a short walk from the centre.
Updated: 10 September 2026
Where to eat nearby
Boston — Breakfast, Coffee & More
Breakfast, coffee and snacks to take away or delivered. The chain's branch on Konstantinou Karamanli.
★7.0 kmMavri Thalassa
A seafood restaurant overlooking the sea in Nea Krini. A family story that began in 1926 as an Asia Minor refugee's kafeneio.
Where to stay nearby
Similar
★White Tower
Thessaloniki's symbol on the waterfront: a 15th-century tower with a museum and city views.
★Arch of Galerius (Kamara)
A 4th-century Roman triumphal arch and the city's classic central meeting point.
★Church of Saint Demetrios
The city's largest church, dedicated to its patron saint. A UNESCO monument.
★Byzantine Walls
The old town's walls and the finest view over Thessaloniki. A UNESCO monument.