11. Aristotelous Square

In terms of its urban planning, Aristotelous Square is the heart of Thessaloniki. It would be easy to think that it is limited to the large open space by the waterfront, where events are often held. But in reality, it stretches all the way from the sea to Egnatia Street in the heart of the city. It is, essentially, comprised of northern and southern curves connected by a long pedestrian walkway that crosses some of Thessaloniki’s main streets… Ermou, Vasileos Irakleiou, Tsimiski and Mitropoleos. 

The idea behind Thessaloniki’s grand square was born after the Great Fire of 1917 that destroyed so much of the city. The vision behind French architect and archaeologist Ernest Hébrard’s new urban plan was to highlight Thessaloniki’s cultural and historical identity and transform it into a European-style gem that would reflect its storied past.

Aristotelous Square was a centrepiece of this plan and was designed with a grandeur to match.

The original plan was for the square to begin at the sea (as it does today) and end at a gate (similar to those found in many European cities) and a courthouse. However, the courthouse was never built here due to the discovery of the Roman Agora during construction work. It was also planned that the square would be called Alexander the Great Square, with a statue of the military leader. It would also have trees, fountains and magnificent buildings. 

Substantial budget cuts meant that the designs were greatly simplified. The square we have today was one of the few elements of Hébrard’s original plans that were fully realised and the buildings that it contains may be simpler than those originally envisaged, but they have undeniably retained many elements of the intended effect.

Walking up from the waterfront, you can admire buildings like the Electra Palace hotel and the Olympion and the decoration of other facades that bear many influences from the Byzantine period and Arabic elements.

In the end, the square was not named after Alexander, but after his teacher, the philosopher Aristotle, who was born in the ancient city of Stageira, in eastern Halkidiki. A statue of Aristotle now stands in the square. 

Today, Aristotelous Square is an integral part of local life, a meeting point, and a venue for events and festivals. There are many restaurants, cafes, hotels, bakeries, shops and access to the Kapani and Athonos markets. Strolling through the square is one of the best ways to experience the city's cosmopolitan spirit.