The symbol of Thessaloniki is the White Tower, built in the 15th century as a protective fortress. The tower is 30 meters high and has 6 floors. It was part of the fortress of Thessaloniki until its destruction in 1867. In the past, the tower was used as a prison and a place of torture and executions, therefore it is also known as the Bloody Tower. The prison was removed in 1878 and the tower was painted white, hence its current name. There were also wonderful collections of sculptures, frescoes and other interesting artefacts that represented the development of the city from the 3rd to the 14th century.