Thessaloniki (municipality)

Thessaloniki is a major municipality and the second-largest city in Greece, located in the Region of Central Macedonia. It is situated on the Thermaic Gulf, at the northwest corner of the Aegean Sea.

History: Founded in 315 BC by Cassander of Macedon, who named it after his wife Thessalonike, a half-sister of Alexander the Great, the city quickly became an important urban center during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. It played a crucial role as a port city and strategic location on the Via Egnatia, a major Roman road. Under Byzantine rule, Thessaloniki became the second-largest and wealthiest city of the Byzantine Empire, known for its art, architecture, and trade. It was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1430 and remained under Ottoman rule for nearly five centuries. Thessaloniki was incorporated into the Kingdom of Greece in 1912 during the Balkan Wars. The city suffered significant damage during the Great Fire of 1917, which led to its modern redesign.

Geography and Climate: Thessaloniki is geographically diverse, encompassing coastal plains, hills, and mountains. The climate is classified as humid subtropical, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Demographics: As of the latest census, the Municipality of Thessaloniki has a significant population, making it a major population center in Greece. The population is primarily Greek, with smaller communities of immigrants and minorities.

Economy: Thessaloniki is an important economic hub for Greece and the wider Balkan region. Its port is one of the largest and busiest in Greece, facilitating trade and transportation. Key industries include commerce, manufacturing, tourism, and services. The city is also a major educational center, with several universities and institutions of higher learning.

Culture and Landmarks: Thessaloniki boasts a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its numerous historical landmarks and museums. Notable sites include the White Tower, a symbol of the city; the Rotunda, a Roman-era monument; numerous Byzantine churches, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites; the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki; and the Museum of Byzantine Culture. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse culinary scene, and annual Thessaloniki International Film Festival.

Administration: The Municipality of Thessaloniki is governed by a directly elected mayor and a municipal council. It is part of the larger Thessaloniki Metropolitan Area.

Transportation: Thessaloniki is a major transportation hub, with an international airport (Macedonia Airport), a large port, railway connections, and a network of highways connecting it to other parts of Greece and the Balkans. The city also has a public transportation system, including buses and a metro system currently under development.