4 minute read
First memories as a volunteer inThessaloniki
My first walk through the Heritage of this ancient city
by Fanny Gallo
I remember as if I were at this moment in the harbor, in the warmth of the sun. The light was incredible, hanging over... and dazzling Thessaloniki, the Nymph of the Thermaic Gulf.
As I was observing, Mount Olympus began to take shape... at the hour that the sun gives us the opportunity to see and reveal the secrets that Olympus hides. The sound of the Greek language seemed like a soothing song in my ears. The weather was peaceful and warm. The White Tower, in the role of a guardian, reigned over the square nearby, to guarantee a safe haven to an unlimited number of ships, as well as the “pirate ship” who dares to come close to the shore. I could see and feel that the sea is entwined with the city, in a symbiotic relationship.
The sound of the Greek language seemed like a soothing song in my ears
The atmosphere along the quays was festive and peaceful. I passed through so many gardens along my walk to the port. As I passed through the Aristotle Square I thought “This cheerful square never sleeps”. At any time of the day or night there are people. It was designed by Ernest Hébrard, a French architect who drew up the plans for the square in 1918 so that it would be perpendicular to the sea.
I could notice how the streets were colorful and the smell of souvlaki that made me feel hungry. I crossed the street in front of the park with the statue. In the square there was a gathering. At that moment it seemed to me that this place played an important role in the socio-political life of the city.
Continuing upwards, I came across the great Forum, which I observed for a while. The richness of this city lies in the remains of the past that can be found on every street corner, … still blending perfectly in the present day.
The richness of this city lies in the remains of the past
I continued to walk uphill, towards the Old Town. I sat down on a rock in the Pasha’s Garden. The view of Agia Sofia Church was majestic. At that time young musicians were gathered and played Greek music. High above the garden, lies the authentic charm of the Old Town. The houses in Anopoli are so charming. I enjoyed the last few moments of sunshine high above the castle.
The view of the sea is even more beautiful when you can see the outline of the mountains above the horizon
Heading towards the mountains at Anopoli, I found a passageway with steps. I was able to enjoy a spot of nature and admire the view of the town, which made me realize just how big it is. The charm is that the view of the sea is even more beautiful when you can see the outline of the mountains above the horizon.
I walked down from the castle ramparts and walked along the Rotonda and Kamara, a place where young people and students meet to express their political opinions.
Afterwards I walked along Egnatia street, where some of the old buildings had survived the tragic fire of 1917. I often wonder what would Thessaloniki look like if this tragedy never happened. Egnatia, an ancient “highway”, is the name of the Great Roman road linking the Adriatic to Asia Minor.
My gaze stopped in a feeling of awe, in front of the Panaghia Chalkeon church, surrounded by cypress and citrus trees. With an iced coffee in my hands, I headed off in the direction of an interesting taverna on the side of the street to listen to the bouzouki sound and eat dolmas and saganaki.
