Metropolitou Gennadiou Street: Defiant History and Urban Resurgence

In this episode of the podcast series "The Street Has Its Own Story", host Giannis Stefanidis takes us on an immersive journey along one of Thessaloniki’s most fascinating corridors: Metropolitou Gennadiou Street.

We explore the enduring legacy of Metropolitan Gennadios Alexiadis, who guided Thessaloniki through four turbulent decades (1912–1951). Discover his courageous defense of the city's Jewish community during the Nazi Occupation which earned him the title "Righteous Among the Nations" and the rare Byzantine tradition of his burial procession seated upon an episcopal throne.

Along the way, we dive into the street's rich urban fabric:

• The monumental Ottoman heritage of Bey Hamam (Baths of Paradise).
• Architectural landmarks spanning the interwar and postwar eras, including the historic Sozopoulos Mansion and the house of prominent poet Manolis Anagnostakis.
• The vibrant present day, where historic layers seamlessly blend with cozy cafes, artisan spots, and the lively culinary pulse of contemporary Thessaloniki.

A captivating audio walk connecting memory, architecture, and living history.