Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece, Greece

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The Heptapyrgion, also known as Yedi Kule, is a historic fortress located at the highest point of Thessaloniki’s old upper town.

Although its name means “Fortress of Seven Towers,” the complex actually contains ten towers and has served as one of the city’s most important defensive strongholds for centuries. The fortress combines Byzantine and Ottoman architectural elements. Parts of its walls date back to the late Roman and Byzantine periods, while significant additions and reconstructions were carried out during Ottoman rule, when it functioned as a military headquarters and garrison.

In the late 19th century, the fortress was converted into a prison and remained in use until 1989. During this period it became one of Greece’s most notorious prisons, holding political prisoners and other inmates through several turbulent periods of modern Greek history. Today, the Heptapyrgion is an important cultural monument where visitors can explore its historic walls, towers, and courtyards while enjoying panoramic views over Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf.