Saint John the Baptist Baptistery, Thessaloniki

This Byzantine baptistery in Thessaloniki features an octagonal floor plan with multiple chambers dedicated to ritual purposes. The interior preserves decorative mosaics and a large central baptismal pool designed for full immersion of initiates.

Built in the fifth century when Thessaloniki was a major Byzantine city, this structure was initially designed as a center for Christian initiation rituals. Over the following centuries it underwent various transformations in how it was used and modified.

The name refers to John the Baptist, a central figure in Christian tradition who performed baptisms in water. Today you can see how the octagonal layout and preserved decorative elements reflect the importance this ritual held for worshippers.

The site sits in central Thessaloniki within walking distance of other religious monuments in the area. You should plan to spend about 20 minutes walking through the interior to view all the chambers and decorative details.

The baptismal pool was constructed to accommodate full-body immersion of adults, a technical challenge that shaped its unusual depth and width. This design choice set it apart from many smaller baptisteries elsewhere in the early Christian world.

Location: Thessaloniki Municipality

Architectural style: Byzantine architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.63236,22.94686

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:13