A new mobile application featuring augmented reality (AR) has been launched in Greece, allowing users to follow the route of the Apostle Paul through ancient Macedonia. This project is a collaboration involving Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the Pieria Metropolitan Authority of the Hellenic Church, and regional authorities, as reported by Makedonika Nea.

The app focuses on the Apostle Paul's journey during his second missionary expedition in the 1st century AD. According to the Book of Acts, Paul arrived in Macedonia around 49–52 AD, preaching in cities such as Philippi, Thessaloniki, and Berea before heading to the sea. Historically, his route traversed modern-day Pieria—an important coastal region with ancient ports.

Key locations along Paul’s path have been digitized as part of this initiative, including Ancient Pydna, a major port center of antiquity, the seaside town of Methoni, which features a commemorative plaque in honor of the Apostle, and two ancient churches in the city of Kolindros. These sites were meticulously documented using drones and laser scanning technology. The resulting AR environment allows users to view additional digital content—historical, theological, and cultural information—through their smartphone cameras.

Professor Efstratios Stylianidis, the scientific director of the project and head of the University’s Geoinformatics Laboratory, emphasized the project's dual purpose: not only to digitally preserve monuments but also to create a specialized mobile tool to promote the region as a center for religious tourism.

The application integrates navigation based on maps, geolocation, and AR technology, offering pre-defined digital routes that combine visits to archaeological, natural, and ecclesiastical sites. Organizers highlight that the project is designed not only for pilgrims but also for a broader audience interested in the history of early Christianity and contemporary cultural tourism.