The Mayor of Thessaloniki, Stelios Angeloudis, visited Agia Sofia Street this week as work continues on its pedestrianisation, a flagship urban regeneration project in the heart of the city. Construction began on 20 January and, according to the municipality, is progressing as planned.
Describing the scheme as a project of "real substance" for the city centre, Angeloudis said it reflects a clear political choice to reshape public space in a way that is more functional, more accessible and more humane. "Public space is changing," he stressed, framing the intervention as part of a broader shift towards people-centred urban planning.
The mayor said: "This is an intervention that improves the street's functionality, organises the uses of space more effectively, prioritises pedestrians and ensures safe and comfortable movement for everyone."
Beyond traffic changes, the project also includes upgraded infrastructure and the creation of a new public square directly in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Thessaloniki. The square, agreed in cooperation with the Church, is intended to operate as a meeting point and a much-needed breathing space in the dense city centre.
Angeloudis underlined that the municipality is closely monitoring progress. He added: "We intervene wherever necessary, so that disruption is kept to a minimum and quality and the final result are safeguarded. We are moving forward with planning, consistency and respect for public space."
Works are currently underway on the section between Tsimiski Street and Mitropoleos Street, which will form the commercial part of the new pedestrian zone. The next phase will extend southwards, from Mitropoleos to Nikis Avenue, where the new square will be developed.
