Heritage & monuments
Arch of Galerius and Rotunda
Arch of Galerius and Rotunda
The Arch of Galerius is a Roman triumphal arch located in downtown Thessaloniki, constructed to commemorate a victory over the Persians. Visitors go here to see the remaining relief carvings and the scale of the Roman architecture. The nearby Rotunda, a circular building originally built as a mausoleum or temple, serves as a complementary site of the same era.
Getting There
The site is located within the city center. It is accessible on foot from the main pedestrian areas and the central square. Depending on your starting point in the center, the walk typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes.
Time Allocation
Allow approximately 45 to 90 minutes to view the exterior of the arch and explore the Rotunda. The time spent depends on whether you choose to study the detailed reliefs on the arch or enter the interior of the Rotunda.
When to Visit
The arch is an open-air monument and can be viewed at any time. To avoid the strongest heat and direct sun on the stone, early morning or late afternoon is preferable. The area can get crowded during the summer tourist season and during local city events.
Nearby Sites
Because of its central location, this site can be combined with other nearby historical landmarks:
- Church of the Saviour (0.1km)
- Church of Saint Panteleimon (0.1km)
- Rotunda (0.2km)
- Galerius Palace (0.3km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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