August full moon: Thessaloniki archaeological sites open until midnight

Thessaloniki is set to embrace the August full moon with a series of cultural events, offering the public a unique opportunity to experience the city's iconic archaeological sites after dark. The Ephorate of Antiquities of Thessaloniki is participating in the Ministry of Culture's "August Full Moon" and "All of Greece One Culture" initiatives.

On Friday, August 28, the Galerius Complex will open its gates free of charge from 8:00 PM until midnight, allowing visitors to explore the ancient site under the moonlight. Simultaneously, at 8:00 PM, the Roman Agora's Odeon will host a free concert featuring the Thessaloniki Youth Band and the Sinfonisches Jugendblasorchester Baden-Württemberg.

These events are part of a nationwide program where 126 archaeological sites, monuments, and museums across Greece will offer free admission. Many of these locations will also feature concerts, theatrical performances, exhibitions, and guided tours.

Further cultural programming continues at the Heptapyrgion, where on Sunday, August 30, and Monday, August 31, at 9:00 PM, the Polis Ensemble will present a musical and visual performance titled "Common Grace… A Ritual of Co-existence." This performance draws inspiration from the musical traditions of the Mediterranean, Balkans, Caucasus, and North Africa, highlighting shared cultural roots and collective memory. While entry to the performance is free, visitors must pay the standard entrance fee for the Heptapyrgion site, and advance booking is required.