Thessaloniki: Byzantine Mosaic Journey: Walk,Discover,Create
ID: GYG1007018-1558381
Category:
Country: Greece
Duration:
05:00 hours
Description
Discover the Church of St. Demetrius and the Monastery of Latomos, on a guided walking tour and create your own mosaic piece inspired by authentic Byzantine motifs.
Step into the hidden heart of Thessaloniki’s Byzantine heritage on a short, guided walk through cobbled alleys, timeless monuments, and breathtaking views. Visit the only surviving Byzantine bath, the tranquil old Library, and charming churches nestled in the Old Town — far from the crowds, close to the soul of the city.
Then, enter our bright, fully accessible mosaic studio just few steps away, where you’ll be introduced to the ancient art of mosaic-making. Just like ancient Greeks. Using colorful tesserae and traditional methods, you’ll create your own piece inspired by authentic Byzantine motifs — no prior experience needed, just your imagination, curiosity and creativity. Come and feel the athmosphere of Byzantine time!
Begin your journey outside the Church of St. Demetrius, Thessaloniki’s most important early Christian basilica. Admire the stunning 5th- to 7th-century mosaics that have miraculously survived through centuries of history.
Walk uphill through the charming streets of the Old Town to the Monastery of Latomos (also known as Osios David). Home to one of the city’s most remarkable mosaic masterpieces, the famous apse mosaic of the beardless Christ, a rare and symbolic image of deep theological and artistic significance.
Continue to a peaceful corner of the Old Town, where the Dimitra's Art Glass Studio is. Pass by two hidden treasures: the historic Old Town Library and the only surviving Byzantine Bath, silent witnesses of daily life in the Byzantine era.
Enter the workshop, a fully equipped and welcoming space where participants are introduced to the timeless art of mosaic. Inspired by authentic Byzantine motifs, create your own mosaic piece by sticking colorful glass tiles on a wooden base. Finish your masterpiece by passing it with tile grout.
Highlights
- Discover the Church of St. Demetrius, Thessaloniki’s most important basilica
- Admire the stunning 5th- to 7th-century mosaics that have survived history
- Visit the Monastery of Latomos and see the famous mosaic of the beardless Christ
- Create your own mosaic piece inspired by authentic Byzantine motifs
- Admire the only survived Byzantine Baths
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a little bit of walking uphill
Bring water to stay hydrated just during the walk (in workshop there will be as well water for mosaic workshop)
You can bring a camera to capture the beautiful sights
Beacuse we are going to get to church man should wear trousers over the knee and woman skirt/dress/trousers over the knee.
The meeting point is on the square in front of the main entrance to the church Saint Demetrius.
INCLUDED
- Guided tour of St. Demetrius Church and its mosaics
- Visit to the Monastery of Latomos and the famous apse mosaic
- Exploration of Thessaloniki's Old Town, including the Byzantine Bath and Old Town Library
- Mosaic glass workshop at Dimitra's Art Glass Studio, including all materials
- Your own handmade mosaic piece to take home
- Coffee, tea, water, greek coffee with loukoumi, snack
NOT INCLUDED
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
