Rhodes Town, also known as Rhodes City, is steeped in history and offers a plethora of sightseeing opportunities.
Here’s an overview of some of the key attractions and historical highlights:
1. Medieval Old Town: One of the most iconic features of Rhodes Town is its Medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enclosed within impressive fortifications built by the Knights of Rhodes in the 14th century, the Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and historic landmarks. Visitors can wander through the charming alleys, explore the imposing Palace of the Grand Master, and marvel at the well-preserved medieval buildings.
2. Palace of the Grand Master: The Palace of the Grand Master, also known as the Kastello, is a magnificent medieval castle located in the heart of the Old Town. Originally built in the 7th century, the palace was extensively renovated by the Knights of Rhodes in the 14th century. Today, it houses a museum showcasing artifacts from Rhodes’ history, including ancient sculptures, pottery, and medieval artifacts.
3. Street of the Knights: The Street of the Knights is a cobblestone street lined with medieval buildings that once housed the various orders of the Knights Hospitaller. Walking along this street feels like stepping back in time, as visitors can admire the grand architecture and imagine the knights and soldiers who once walked these same paths.
4. Archaeological Museum of Rhodes: Located within the Medieval Old Town, the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is home to a fascinating collection of artifacts spanning the island’s history from ancient times to the medieval period. Highlights include sculptures, pottery, and mosaics from various archaeological sites on Rhodes.
5. Acropolis of Rhodes: Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, the Acropolis of Rhodes offers panoramic views of Rhodes Town and the surrounding area. The acropolis dates back to classical antiquity and features the remains of ancient temples, including the Temple of Apollo.
6. Mandraki Harbor: The historic Mandraki Harbor is the main harbor of Rhodes Town and is flanked by two iconic landmarks: the medieval Windmills and the Fort of St. Nicholas. Legend has it that the Colossus of Rhodes once stood at the entrance to the harbor, although this claim is disputed by historians.
7. Ancient Stadium: Located just outside the Medieval Old Town, the Ancient Stadium of Rhodes is a well-preserved ancient sports venue dating back to the 3rd century BC. It hosted various athletic events during ancient times and offers insight into the sporting traditions of the ancient Greeks.
These are just a few of the many sightseeing opportunities and historical landmarks that await visitors in Rhodes Town. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, medieval architecture, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this charming city, Rhodes Town has something to offer for every traveller.