The City of Rhodes
The Medieval City of Rhodes, travel in time and experience history
The Medieval City of Rhodes Island is one of the most fascinating and best-preserved medieval sites in the world. From the moment you walk through one of the gates in the 14th century city ramparts and you start strolling through the cobble-stoned alleyways of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will live the sensation of travelling back centuries in time. Built on the foundations of a town founded in 407 BC, the City of Rhodes has been for centuries under Roman and Byzantine rule. It became one of the last Christian strongholds in a region dominated by the Ottoman Empire, during the period it was ruled by the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem (from 1309 to 1522). The subsequent Ottoman rule that lasted until 1912 also left its marks, and as you wander through this historic city today, its wealth of monuments – forts, palaces, churches, monasteries, mosques and minarets – will dazzle you.
What to see and which places to visit in the Medieval City of Rhodes
You could spend days in the historic city center of Rhodes without ever getting bored. No matter how much time you spend strolling through the medieval alleys, seeing the sites, visiting museums and exploring hidden courtyard gardens, you will always want to come back for more! Travel through history by visiting the Palace of the Grand Master, one of the most striking medieval sights in Greece. It now is a museum featuring impressive collections of historical artefacts like ancient sculptures and Roman mosaics. Other must-sees include the Archaeological Museum, the Panagia Kastrou Cathedral, the Suleiman’s Mosque and the beautifully restored Street of Knights. For magical views of the Medieval City, climb up the Byzantine Clock Tower or go for a walk over the 4-km-long city ramparts.
And of course there is also shopping and nightlife in the Old City
Orfeos and Socratous are the two main shopping streets in the Medieval City of Rhodes, and they are packed with small shops selling handmade leather ware, Greek natural products, herbs and spices, clothes, fashion accessories, jewelry, little souvenirs, hand painted icons and lots, lots more! In the smaller alleyways you will find wonderful little fashion boutiques, art shops and galleries. At night, the main streets are vibrant and alive, while lantern-lit alleys and squares are like a dream, so romantic, and perfect for a very special night out.