Old Metropolis

Macedonia


One of the largest Byzantine buildings in the Balkans, this basilica has a chequered past. Dedicated to St Paul in the 11th century, it was remade as a mosque by conquering Turks in 1430 (they added a minaret and plastered over 13th-century frescoes), reconsecrated by the Greeks during the Balkan War (1912), used as a stable by WWII German occupiers, then left in near-ruin. Following extensive restoration, it's again accessible, its austere three-aisled architecture and fabulous frescoes the undoubted highlights.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Macedonia attractions

1. Barbouta

0.13 MILES

Walk from Plateia Antoniou down Vasileos Konstantinou to find Veria's atmospheric former Jewish quarter. The synagogue (with the bright blue-and-yellow…

3. Byzantine Museum

0.24 MILES

This museum in a restored mill will turn you from novice to nerd in all things Byzantine. Splendorous icons, huge 5th-century floor mosaics and ornate…

4. Archaeological Museum

0.54 MILES

Browse an impressive haul of Neolithic artefacts from the settlement of Nea Nicomedia, treasures from the Vergina tombs and other Classical, Hellenistic…

5. Vergina Royal Tombs Museum

6.71 MILES

A grass-covered tumulus (burial mound) has been converted into a truly spine-tingling museum where visitors can descend to unspoiled royal Macedonian…

6. Folklore Museum

20.73 MILES

Written explanation is scant at this small museum occupying a traditional house in the Varosi quarter, but there are plenty of folk garments, embroidered…

7. Museum of Water & Water Power

20.82 MILES

The abundance of streams in Edessa led sensibly to an abundance of mills and other machinery to exploit this renewable power. Scattered around this open…

8. Waterfalls Park

20.87 MILES

Located at the eastern side of town, Waterfalls Park offers several viewing points allowing you to gaze at Edessa's star attraction, and even get quite…