Basilica of Agios Dimitrios, Thessaloniki, Paleochristian basilica in Thessaloniki, Greece
Hagios Demetrios is a five-aisled basilica of 43.58 m by 33 m, its interior divided by four rows of marble colonnades with carved capitals; a sixth aisle crosses them at the altar. The central nave rises above the stepped side roofs, whose walls carry single, double and multiple arched windows. Much of the lower masonry is irregular stone with brick bands following the arches.
The first structure at this site was built in 313 CE at the location where Saint Demetrius suffered martyrdom. A larger three-aisled basilica followed in the 5th century, which was later expanded and underwent restoration throughout subsequent centuries.
The crypt below the altar preserves the site of ancient Roman baths where Saint Demetrius was held captive. Pilgrims visit to honor this sacred location, which remains central to Orthodox Christian devotion and worship.
The church is open daily for visitors and provides access to the main sanctuary, crypt, and a museum containing religious objects. Early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be less crowded, making it easier to explore the space.
The 1481 tomb of Loukas Spandonis, a ruler of Thessaloniki, stands in the northwest corner of the central nave, between a pier and the first column. Carved in the Italian Renaissance manner, probably in Italy, it bears flowers and an inscription of twenty-two Greek iambic verses in his honour.
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