Church of the Acheiropoietos, 5th-century Byzantine basilica in Thessaloniki, Greece
The Church of the Acheiropoietos is a 5th-century three-aisled basilica with marble columns, a wooden roof, galleries, and a semicircular vault at the eastern end. The building combines classical Byzantine architecture with functional spaces for worshippers.
Construction took place between 450 and 470 AD on the site of Roman public baths. After the Ottoman conquest of 1430, it became the first mosque in the city.
The interior displays preserved mosaics showing plants, geometric patterns, and animals from the early Christian era. These decorations reveal the artistic tastes and religious beliefs of the faithful who gathered here centuries ago.
The church is located on Agias Sofias street opposite Makedonomachon square and is open daily. Admission is free, and visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the interior has different floor levels and much of the viewing is done while standing.
The name Acheiropoietos first appeared in records around 1320 and refers to a miraculous image of the Virgin Mary said to have formed within the walls of the church. This religious event transformed the site into a pilgrimage destination for believers.
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