White Tower of Thessaloniki - Banknotes Controversy

Banknotes Controversy

In the early 1990s, the White Tower became the focus of a major controversy between Greece and the newly independent Republic of Macedonia. Unofficial "Makedonka" souvenir banknotes created by nationalist organizations in the Republic of Macedonia depicted the White Tower of Thessaloniki, VMRO-DPMNE proposed its adoption. However, the government in Skopje rejected its official use and adopted a different design for the new Macedonian denar, which was issued in 1992.

IMPRES, nonetheless, printed unofficial banknotes depicting the White Tower, which were sold as souvenirs on the streets of Skopje, bearing a disclaimer "this is a souvenir banknote and not for official use". The printing of the notes became the subject of a rumor in Greece that the currency of the new neighbouring state did in fact depict Greek symbols — a highly controversial point, given the dispute with the Republic of Macedonia over its name and flag. The notes were never placed in circulation, as they were not legal tender, but the episode nonetheless exacerbated the ill will felt between the two countries and helped to aggravate tensions in the Balkans.

• View from outside

• View of circular staircase

• FIrst floor gallery

• Second floor gallery

• Fourth floor gallery

• View from the roof