Church of the Holy Twelve Apostles

Naos Dodeka Apostolon is a Byzantine church with five domes supported by four columns and featuring ornate brickwork patterns on its exterior. The building stands near Thessaloniki's western walls within walking distance from the city center.

The structure was built around 1329 as the main church of a monastery. During Ottoman rule, it was later converted into the Soğuksu Mosque.

The interior displays religious mosaics from the 14th century depicting Christ Pantocrator, Old Testament prophets, saints and martyrs. These artworks show how faith was expressed through visual imagery during that period.

The church is easily accessible and located near a Byzantine water cistern. Visitors will find that morning and afternoon hours offer better light inside for viewing the interior details and mosaics.

The building uses cloisonné masonry, a technique combining cut stone and brick in patterns similar to Constantinople's architecture. This craftsmanship reflects the influence of the empire's capital on regional building methods.

Location: Thessaloniki Municipal Unit

GPS coordinates: 40.64280,22.93752

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:44