A few days ago I had to go to Thessaloniki to sort out some business, so I took the time to take a walk in the city.
I love strolling near the ruins of the ancient city. It makes you think how many thousands of people have walked in the same places as you, have lived, have loved... And around the ruins of the imperial villa of Galerius, one of the most livid streets, where the city continues to live, noisy and fun, laughing, loving...
The ruins of the imperial villa of Gallerius
I really like to wander the narrow streets of the city. Sometimes you think they are left in another era, with shops that refuse to change, to become fashionable, to approach another kind of customers. Even though everything around them change, they remain faithful to what they know best.
The sign reads: Workshop of hats "Amazona"
This city has history. You can see it in every corner. There are buildings that were build in the first quarter of the 20th century and still catch our eyes with their beauty. The architecture is innovative, a masterpiece if aesthetics. They look much more beautiful than all these gigantic buildings with cement and glass that flood them, removing any "color" from the city.
Megaron in Tsimiski
During my walk, I try to take photos of all the old building I meet in my way. Then I search for their history. Thankfully, there are people trying to perserve the story/ stories of the buildings. For example, this was built for the Jewish family of Alberto and Alegra Ergas after the huge fire that broke out in Thessaloniki in 1917.
Alergas Ergas mansion
It is not easy to maintain old houses. Some show their wear and tear and wear them as wounds and as medals that have endured so much over time. And they are still used by people today, especially the ground floors as shops and cafes to remind us of earlier times.
Commerce place
After such a walk, I entered a coffee bar like those on the ground floor of neoclassical buildings. It was a hot day and I wanted something cool to quench my thirst.
The young polite bartender suggested me a beer with a chocolate aftertaste, the 24 double. Quite an interesting choice, which gave the perfect closing to my walk. A bittersweet feeling for all that I had seen that day.
Thank you for reading!
All the photos were taken by me.
