Church of Prophet Elijah, Byzantine church in Upper City, Thessaloniki, Greece
The Church of Prophet Elijah is a Byzantine place of worship in Thessaloniki's Upper City featuring a large central dome and four smaller domed sections near the side apses. The structure includes sacristies, chapels, and a spacious narthex that served various religious functions within the monastery complex.
The building was constructed between 1360 and 1370, replacing a former palace destroyed during the Zealot uprising of 1342. Its construction on this site shows how religious structures regained importance for the community following periods of unrest.
The remaining wall paintings show scenes from the life of Christ and various saints, reflecting the artistic tradition of the era. These decorations illustrate the spiritual role this place held for worshippers and visitors exploring its religious art.
Access is oriented to the east, and the building can be reached on foot through the narrow lanes of the Upper City. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and be prepared to explore tight historical spaces, as the structure preserves original medieval features.
The construction material combines white stone blocks with brick courses, a building method rare in Macedonia but common in Constantinople. This technique merges local and Byzantine traditions in an unexpected way.
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