Greek Agora and Roman Forum, Thessaloniki

The Roman Forum is an excavated Roman-era forum, also known as the "Ancient Agora." In 1966, workmen, while digging the foundations for the new Thessaloniki Municipal Courthouse, uncovered the remains of the agora. The Municipal Courthouse was moved to another location and archeologists excavated the area.

When the Romans came to Thessaloniki they enlarged the Greek agora and created a forum on two levels. The complex features two Roman baths and a theater used for gladiator games. The original Roman forum was built in the second century and used through the sixth century. It was the religious, administrative, and social center of the city. The forum was connected to the city's main streets.

The Roman Forum was decorated with ornate arches, fountains, and cloisters. Visitors can see the restored amphitheater inside the agora. Parts of ancient Corinthia columns are still standing. These columns formed two-story porticoes. The forum also had beautiful mosaic floors.

The Cryptoporticus semi-subterranean corridors are very well preserved. Visitors can follow this corridor to the forum's underground museum. The museum includes exhibits with artifacts from the site, including silver coins and marble sculptures.