Heptapyrgion Fortress: Mapping Thessaloniki's Byzantine Walls

Spatial mapping and high-resolution documentation of the Heptapyrgion Fortress walls overlooking the Thermaic Gulf.

Perched on the ridge overlooking Thessaloniki, the Heptapyrgion Fortress (Yedi Kule) is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Documenting its massive stone and brick fortification walls required precise nadir and oblique captures.

The HeliCam allowed us to map the entire heptagonal layout of the fortress, capturing details of the towers, bastions, and inner courtyards. The contrasting light of the late afternoon sun highlighted the textures of the ancient Byzantine and Ottoman masonry.

Overview of Heptapyrgion Fortress: Mapping Thessaloniki's Byzantine Walls

An elevated view of the Heptapyrgion fortress in Thessaloniki, showcasing its defensive walls, tiled-roof towers, and the sprawling city and Thermaic Gulf in the background.

An elevated wide-angle view of the Heptapyrgion fortress in Thessaloniki, showcasing its massive stone walls, central towers, and the sprawling city descending toward the sea.

An elevated medium-wide shot of the Heptapyrgion fortress walls and towers, showcasing the massive stone masonry and defensive structures under clear daylight.

Technical Specs

Date: June 2006
Location: Eptapirgio, Greece
Technology: Custom-built HeliCam Remote-Controlled Helicopter
Imaging: DSLR Payload with Multi-Axis Gimbal Stabilization