Makedonia Palace Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki, one of the oldest major cities in Europe and the second largest city in Greece, spans twelve kilometers within a basin formed by low hills that overlook a bay leading into the Thermaikos Gulf. It is a bustling city and one of the most significant trade and communication hubs in the Mediterranean. The devastating fire of 1917 destroyed a significant portion of the city's historic center, and further damage was inflicted by a major earthquake in 1968. However, there are still numerous examples of the city's rich history and diverse cultures, although they are hidden amidst the post-1917 development. This mix of architecture has resulted in an incredible fusion of styles that are distinctly Thessaloniki. Roman monuments stand next to modern university campuses, modernist buildings face medieval churches, and Ottoman structures will soon top the tunnels of Thessaloniki's latest addition, the subway. The city authorities have made significant efforts to preserve the state of the cultural heritage, and it can be assumed that more will be done to ensure that it remains a permanent part of the city's landscape and that it is well explained and accessible to both locals and visitors. However, the greatness of Thessaloniki is not solely in its standing structures. This city is truly vibrant, and not just in terms of heavy traffic or extensive construction. The people here enjoy expressing themselves publicly, and it's difficult to spend time here without witnessing the authentic and indigenous culture of the city. Plateia Aristotelou hosts open-air concerts during the summer, but there are also spontaneous gatherings that provide visitors with a glimpse into the lives of ordinary Salonicians. Students often gather in front of the Rotunda to play their guitars at night, and the Roman Agora occasionally hosts plays or shows organized by various groups in the city. Every two years, this cultural blossoming takes the form of the biennale of contemporary art, a highlight of the city's artistic community's calendar. Byzantine churches, Roman constructions, Muslim buildings, modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches define Thessaloniki. As the second largest city in Greece, Thessaloniki combines over 2,300 years of history with all the amenities and excitement that a modern European city can offer a visitor.