Thessaloniki, a city with a rich and diverse history, is home to many fascinating landmarks that echo its multicultural past. Among these, the Bezesteni Covered Market stands as one of the most significant remnants of the Ottoman era, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s commercial life during that period. Located on Dionisiou Solomou street beside the bustling Venizelou Avenue, Bezesteni is a must-see attraction
The Bezesteni, built between 1455 and 1459 by Sultan Mehmed II, is one of the oldest Ottoman buildings still standing in Thessaloniki. The word “Bezesteni” refers to a fabric market, and true to its name, this covered market has long been a center for trade, particularly of fabrics and precious goods. The building’s design is emblematic of Ottoman architecture, with its rectangular shape, six well-preserved domes, and seven double arches supported by two central pillars. Each of the brick domes is adorned with a white stone flower, and the building itself has four entrances.
The Bezesteni’s primary function during the Ottoman period was to serve as a hub for trade and commerce, dealing with valuable items like fabrics, jewelry, and financial transactions. The market’s design was specifically suited to protect and store precious goods, with the interior chamber being secured, while the outer perimeter housed shops for regular commercial activities.
The building remained active until the destructive fire of 1917, after which it underwent repairs and renovations. During them, the market was redesigned to include an open terrace and a metal walkway, allowing visitors to examine the building's architectural details up close. Despite the changes, it has retained much of its historical character. Today, visitors will find small shops offering fabrics, jewelry, sewing supplies like bobbins, ribbons, zippers, belts and other goods.
Venizelou Avenue plays a central role in the city’s layout, being home to a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels. It runs through Thessaloniki’s heart, connecting the city center to the waterfront. This thoroughfare is not just a modern commercial hub but also a site of historical importance. Beneath the avenue lies the Venizelou Metro Station, where excavations uncovered the Decumanus Maximus, a major Roman road. These ancient ruins were integrated into the metro station design.
Bezesteni is not the only market in Thessaloniki’s city center. A short walk to the east, you’ll find Modiano Market, a recently renovated landmark that has become a hub for fresh local products. The market is famous for offering fruits, vegetables, honey, olive oil, spices, wine, and cheese, while the top floor features a food court.
Close by, the Kapani Market offers a traditional selection of fresh produce, seafood, meats, and olives.