Rhodes Town is a beautiful and historic city on the island of Rhodes in Greece. The town is on the island’s northern tip, overlooking the Aegean Sea.
With a rich history dating back to ancient times, the medieval city is now a popular tourist destination, offering a mix of ancient history, natural beauty, and modern amenities.
Getting there and around
Rhodes Town is easily accessible by air or ferry. The island has its own airport, Diagoras International Airport, about 15 kilometers from the city center.
Flights to the island are available from many European cities.
The town is also well-connected by ferry. Ferries run regularly from Athens and other islands in the Aegean Sea, and there are also frequent ferries to Turkey.
Once you arrive in Rhodes Town, you can explore the city on foot, as it is relatively small and easy to navigate. Alternatively, you can rent a car or a scooter to explore the island and its surrounding areas.
Top Things to Do
Visit the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rhodes Town.
Built-in the 14th century by the Knights Hospitaller, the palace served as the residence of the Grand Master of the Knights and the administrative center of the island.
Today, the palace has been restored and converted into a museum showcasing the Knights’ history and their role in the island’s history.
The museum features exhibits on the history of the Knights, including their battles with the Ottoman Empire and their impact on the island’s culture.
The palace is an impressive example of Gothic architecture, with its high walls, towers, and battlements.
Visitors can explore the palace’s many rooms, including the grand hall, the throne room, and the private apartments of the Grand Master.
One of the palace’s highlights is the Knight’s Hall, which features impressive frescoes depicting the history of the Knights.
Visitors can also admire the beautiful mosaic floors, intricate woodwork, and stunning tapestries that decorate the palace’s rooms.
After exploring the palace, visitors can stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the building.
The gardens feature stunning views of the harbor and the Aegean Sea and beautiful fountains, statues, and flowers.
Walk along the Street of the Knights
The Street of the Knights is one of the most picturesque and historic streets in Rhodes Town.
Located in the heart of the medieval Old Town, the street is a stunning example of Gothic architecture lined with impressive buildings dating back to the 14th century.
The street was originally built by the Knights Hospitaller and served as the main thoroughfare of the medieval town.
Today, the street is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to step back and experience the island’s rich history.
As visitors walk along the street, they can admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings, many of which have been restored to their former glory.
The street is lined with impressive stone facades, intricate arches, and Gothic doorways, all sure to impress visitors.
One of the most impressive buildings on the street is the Hospital of the Knights, which now serves as the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes.
The museum features a collection of artifacts that date back to the Hellenistic period and exhibits on the island’s history under the Knights.
Roloi Clock Tower
Located in the heart of the medieval Old Town, the tower is an impressive example of Ottoman architecture and is a symbol of the island’s rich history and culture.
The tower was originally built in the 7th century by the Byzantines and was later rebuilt by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century.
It was further modified by the Ottomans in the 19th century, who added the clock and the decorative features that are visible today.
Visitors can climb to the top of the tower, where they will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city and the harbor.
The climb to the top can be challenging, but the views are well worth the effort.
Inside the tower, visitors can explore a small museum showcasing the tower’s history and city.
The museum features a collection of old photographs, maps, and artifacts that provide a fascinating insight into the island’s rich history.
The tower is lit in the evenings, creating a beautiful and romantic atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town.
Visitors can enjoy a stroll around the tower and admire its beauty and charm, as well as the surrounding architecture and streets.
Mosque of Suleiman
The Mosque of Suleiman provides a glimpse into the island’s Ottoman past.
Located in the heart of the medieval Old Town, the mosque was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century and is one of the few remaining examples of Ottoman architecture in Rhodes.
The mosque was named after Suleiman the Magnificent, the Ottoman sultan who ruled the island during the 16th century.
It was built on the site of a former church and features a stunning blend of Ottoman and Byzantine architectural styles.
Visitors can explore the mosque’s interior, adorned with beautiful tilework, intricate carvings, and decorative calligraphy.
The central dome is impressive and supported by elegant columns and arches.
In addition to its impressive architecture, the Mosque of Suleiman also has a fascinating history.
During the Ottoman period, the mosque was a center of Islamic worship and was an important part of the island’s cultural and religious life.
Today, the mosque is open to visitors of all faiths and is a popular attraction in Rhodes Town.
Visitors can admire its beauty, learn more about its history, and enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere that pervades the mosque.
Explore the Old Streets
As visitors wander through the Old Streets, they will discover a wealth of attractions, including historic buildings, museums, shops, and restaurants.
The streets are lined with charming stone buildings, many of which date back to the medieval period, and are adorned with beautiful balconies, flowers, and decorative ironwork.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the island’s rich history and culture.
The museum is housed in the historic Hospital of the Knights and features artifacts dating back to ancient times.
The museum’s collection is divided into several sections, including prehistoric and Mycenaean artifacts, Classical and Hellenistic sculptures, and artifacts from the Byzantine and medieval periods.
Visitors can also admire a collection of ancient coins, ceramics, and jewelry, all providing a fascinating insight into the island’s history and culture.
One of the museum’s highlights is the Aphrodite of Rhodes, a beautiful statue of the goddess Aphrodite that dates back to the 1st century BC.
The statue is considered one of the finest examples of Hellenistic art and is a must-see for anyone visiting the museum.
Another impressive exhibit is the Head of Helios, which is believed to represent the sun god Helios, the patron deity of the island.
The head is a remarkable example of Classical Greek sculpture and will impress visitors with its beauty and craftsmanship.
In addition to its impressive collection of artifacts, the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes also features a beautiful courtyard garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the Old Town.
The garden is filled with fragrant flowers, citrus trees, and a beautiful fountain, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after exploring the museum.
Relax on the beaches: Rhodes is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, and many are located near Rhodes Town. The most popular beaches include Elli Beach and Kallithea Beach.
Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter of Rhodes Town, also known as La Juderia, is a fascinating and historic district that provides a glimpse into the island’s Jewish heritage.
Located in the heart of the medieval Old Town, the quarter was once home to a thriving Jewish community that flourished on the island for centuries.
The Jewish Quarter is characterized by its narrow, winding streets and charming alleyways, lined with traditional houses, shops, and synagogues.
The quarter’s architecture uniquely blends Ottoman, Sephardic, and Italian styles, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that shaped the island over the centuries.
One of the most notable landmarks in the Jewish Quarter is the Kahal Shalom Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in Greece and one of the oldest in Europe.
The synagogue dates back to the 16th century and is a beautiful example of Sephardic architecture.
Visitors can explore the synagogue’s interior, adorned with beautiful decorations and features a collection of historic artifacts and documents.
Another interesting landmark in the Jewish Quarter is the Jewish Museum of Rhodes, located in the former Jewish community center.
The museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the island’s Jewish community, including traditional costumes, religious objects, and photographs.
Enjoy the nightlife
Rhodes Town is known for its lively nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The most popular area for nightlife is the Bar Street, which is located in the Old Town.
Take a boat trip
Plenty of boat trips are available from Rhodes Town, including trips to nearby islands and secluded beaches.
One popular destination is the nearby island of Symi, with its picturesque harbor and colorful houses.
If you are looking for a beautiful and historic city to explore, consider adding Rhodes Town to your travel itinerary.
With its ancient history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, this charming town is sure to captivate you and leave you with unforgettable memories.
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