Historic Sites
Historic and archaeological sites abound the Island of Rhodes. Such sites showcase what is left of the culture, government and the magnificence of the older days. It is highly recommended that one take time to admire these ancient ruins of Rhodes. It could be said that you miss half of your life if you’re not able to do so.
The Acropolis of Lindos is one of the top attractions in Rhodes, perhaps even the whole Greece. This third century ruin is surrounded by medieval walls constructed by the Knights of St. John. The monuments of the Acropolis of Lindos include the theatre constructed below the Temple of Athena. This theatre features a circular orchestra and auditorium which can accommodate a total of 1,800 spectators. There are also funeral monuments spread over the surrounding district of Lindos, the most important of which are the “Tomb of Kleoboulos” and “The Archokrateion”.
The Acropolis of Rhodes is another sight to see. This acropolis features majestic temples, public buildings and underground cult places. The most valuable monuments in this archaeological zone include the: Temple of Athena Polieus and Zeus Polieus, the Nymphaia, Ordeion, Temple of Pythian Apollo, Stoa building, Artemision, and the Stadium. The Temple of Athena was a poros Doric peripteral temple constructed in honor of the Greek Goddess Athena. The Nymphaia, on the other hand, is a subterranean cave used as a place of recreation and worship. The Odeion is a theater that was used for musical events or for attending rhetoric lessons of famous Rhodian orators.
The Acropolis in Ialyssos is another significant historical monument located north of the Island of Rhodes. The acropolis features ruins from the Archaic, Byzantine, and Knight’s period. It also has the Dorian temple of Athena, the medieval monastery and the Church of the Knights.
Ancient Kamiros was once the largest Doric cities in Rhodes. Kamiros is located 22 miles southwest of downtown Rhodes. Blessed with great economic progress and natural resources, Kamiros was the first Rhodian city to create its own money. The city was destroyed through an earthquake that happened in 400 BC.
The Elaphos and Elaphina is a hotel built by the Italians during the early 19th century. It features a restaurant with a large veranda, a tennis court, and gala hall. Elaphos is the three-story building of the hotel while Elaphina is the two-story one.
Finally, the Old City of Rhodes is the biggest and oldest inhabited medieval city in Europe. Its picturesque quality attracts many visitors and guests from all parts of the world. It features the temple of Venus, the Municipal Art Gallery of Rhodes, the Museum of Decorative Arts, the Archaeological Museum, the Church of the our Lady of the Castle and the Palace of the Knights. The Street of the Knights, the best preserved and most delightful medieval relics in the world is found here. This street was built on an ancient pathway from Acropolis of Rhodes to the port. This is just a sneak peek of what to expect and anticipate in the Island of Rhodes. There are many more sites to see, places to visit, and things to do.