Heptapyrgion aka Yedi Kule at Thessaloniki in Greece at Dusk
by Alexios Ntounas
Title
Heptapyrgion aka Yedi Kule at Thessaloniki in Greece at Dusk
Artist
Alexios Ntounas
Medium
Photograph
Description
Heptapyrgion (or Eptapyrgio in modern Greek) is a Byzantine and Ottoman-era fortress situated on the north-eastern corner of the Acropolis of Thessaloniki in Greece. It is also known by its Ottoman Turkish name Yedi Kule. Heptapyrgion was built by the Byzantines during the Paleologian Dynasty (14th century AD). It was constructed over an older citadel possibly dated back to the 9th century AD. It served as the major redoubt of the city's acropolis, as well as the seat of its garrison commander in Ottoman times, until the late 19th century. It was then converted to a prison, which remained open until 1989. Nowadays it serves as a museum open for tourists. Heptapyrgion was named after the 7 towers used in the defense of this acropolis.
The fortress held political prisoners in the past. Thinking of its history gives you some creepy feelings if you enter the fortress. Once inside you feel totally cut off since the high stone walls block all your feelings.You almost sense the presence of the prisoners as you walk past the locked iron doors of the cells and into the dark, cold solitary confinement wing.
As you can see in this photograph Heptapyrgion dominates the top of the hill among the city’s buildings. During the dusk the clouds had wonderful pink and purple tones creating a unique view of the castle. The few clouds were also giving an interesting texture in the sky.
If you visit Thessaloniki you should definitely visit the city’s castle since you get an amazing panoramic view of the whole city. Also if you explore the area you will find some great places to have coffee or get something to eat.
Uploaded
December 26th, 2021
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