Hotels near Church of Agios Dimitrios

The Hagios Demetrios is Thessaloniki's largest church (43 by 33 metres) and the city's UNESCO-listed cathedral built on the spot where Saint Demetrius (the city's patron) was martyred in AD 306. The original 5th-century basilica burned in 1917; the current church is a faithful 1948 reconstruction preserving 7 surviving 5th-7th century mosaics in situ. The crypt holds the original Roman bath where Demetrius was killed.

Free entry to the church (modest dress required); the crypt and small museum cost EUR 3. The church is active for daily Orthodox services. The annual feast of Agios Dimitrios on 26 October draws huge crowds and a citywide procession. Allow 45 minutes for the church and crypt together.

Pro Tip: Visit at 11am or 4pm to avoid services. The crypt under the altar (separate ticket EUR 3) is the most striking part - early Christian burial inscriptions and Roman bath foundations. Combine with the Roman Forum (Agora, 5-min walk south) for an integrated 3rd-7th century walking tour.