The Old Town of Rhodes

An Archipelago of History

The Old Town of Rhodes has a storied history that dates back to antiquity, but its most definitive structures and layout were established during the Knights Hospitaller period between 1309 and 1522.

Following the conclusion of the Crusades, the Knights Hospitaller acquired Rhodes, transforming it into a fortified complex that stood as a bulwark against Ottoman expansion in the Aegean Sea.

The town’s imposing walls and moat, designed to withstand long sieges, encircle a medieval world where Gothic architecture blends with Byzantine and Islamic influences, a reflection of Rhodes’ multicultural past.

Throughout the centuries, Rhodes experienced several sieges and occupations, most notably the siege of 1480 and the final siege in 1522 by the Ottoman Empire, leading to its capture.

Under Ottoman rule, the town saw the addition of new buildings, mosques, and baths, further enriching its architectural tapestry. It remained under Ottoman control until it was occupied by Italy in 1912, which led to a period of restoration and archaeological discovery.

In 1948, Rhodes, along with the rest of the Dodecanese islands, was officially integrated into Greece.

Key Attractions in the Old Town of Rhodes

The Old Town of Rhodes is a historical and cultural gem, featuring many must-see sites for travelers.

• Street of the Knights: A remarkable cobblestone path lined with medieval buildings, where knights were once quartered according to their origin. It leads directly to the Palace of the Grand Master, now a museum showcasing the medieval period with preserved rooms and artifacts.
• Suleiman Mosque: A testament to the town’s multicultural heritage, this mosque remains from the Ottoman era, offering a glimpse into the past.
• Archaeological Museum of Rhodes: Located in the Hospital of the Knights, this museum displays artifacts that tell the story of the island’s extensive history.
• Medieval Moat: Once a defensive feature, the moat now serves as a tranquil walking path for those looking to escape the busy streets.
• Rhodes Old Town Market: A bustling market where locals and tourists can find spices, textiles, and handmade souvenirs, reflecting the vibrant culture of the town.

The Enchantment of Night in the Old Town of Rhodes

As the sun sets, the Old Town of Rhodes transforms into an enchanting landscape, inviting visitors to experience its timeless beauty under the veil of night. Illuminated by soft street lamps, the medieval streets and buildings take on a mystical aura, creating a serene yet mysterious atmosphere.

Nighttime offers a unique perspective of the town’s rich heritage, accentuating the intricate details of its ancient architecture and the solemn silence of its historic paths.

This is when the Old Town truly feels like stepping back in time, with the dimly lit Street of the Knights and the glowing facade of the Palace of the Grand Master serving as highlights.

Furthermore, the nightlife of the Old Town, although more subdued than in modern cities, offers cozy tavernas and cafes where visitors can indulge in traditional Greek cuisine and music, surrounded by the warmth of local hospitality and the echoes of history.

This distinct nocturnal charm makes exploring the Old Town of Rhodes after dusk an unforgettable experience, weaving memories that linger long after the night has ended.

The Significance of the Moat Surrounding the Old Town of Rhodes

The moat that encircles the Old Town of Rhodes is not just a relic of medieval military engineering; it represents a crucial element of the town’s defense mechanisms.

Unlike the water-filled moats surrounding many European castles and fortresses, the moat of Rhodes was designed to be dry, which allowed for the deployment of troops and the setting up of defensive positions in times of siege.

This strategic innovation reflects the adaptability and ingenuity of the Knights Hospitaller, enabling them to create a formidable barrier against invaders. Today, the moat has been transformed into one of the town’s most tranquil and picturesque areas.

It serves as a green belt around the Old Town, providing visitors with a peaceful walking path away from the hustle and bustle of the urban environment. The preservation and conversion of the moat into a recreational space underscores Rhodes’ commitment to cherishing its historical heritage while adapting to the needs of contemporary visitors.

A Goblet of the Ages: Wine Tasting in the Medieval City

Savoring the Past in Modern Delight

Rhodes is not just a hub of archaeological depth and historical breadth; it is also a confluence of modern-day luxuries. Our first stop in this intoxicating passage through time is a wine tasting like no other. Hosted within the mythical walls of the medieval city, this intimate soiree promises a sensorial experience – premium local wines paired with delicacies that have graced the tables of knights and pashas alike.

Aroma of Antiquity

Across the ancient amphorae and through the centennial vineyard, the scent of history lingers – an aromatic reminder of the island’s rich viticulture. Join our sommeliers as they lead you through the bouquet of noble grape varieties, Cretan king-figs, and piquant aged cheeses, each sip a dialogue with the past, each flavor a nod to culinary tradition.

Culinary Alchemy

In the flicker of candlelight, the sanguine hues of the evening elicit a warmth that transcends medieval walls, bridging the divide between past and present.

The table set with local delicacies tells a story of survival and sublime gastronomy—a paximadi transformed from staple to savory, drizzled with the ambrosia of Rhodian honey; a dolma, its grape leaves echoing the vineyards that birthed the wines now in your glass.

Guided Tours to the Heart of a City’s Memory

>> Old Town alternative guided Tour

Indulge in the Vicissitudes of a City

The best way to comprehend a city’s story is by walking through its veins, and Rhodes provides no dearth of tactile history. Follow the expert guides as they lead you from new to old, sharing anecdotes and insights that bring the city to life.

The Narrative Unfolds

Starting from the more contemporary New Town, the route meanders through the local hotspots before venturing into the stone labyrinth of the Medieval City. The guides animate the past with their words, revealing architectural nuances and the abiding essence of a city that time tried, but could not quite touch.

A City of Many Layers

“Modern-Day” tours are a misnomer in the context of Rhodes. What is modern but a sheath of antiquity, and these tours, walking through the ages. Discover the living monuments that stand against the tide of invention – bakeries that still use wood-fired ovens, tailors who fashion traditional garb, and a city teeming with life and laughter.

Preserving a Bygone Era

The UNESCO World Heritage Status

The Old Town’s recognition by UNESCO is a testament to its universal value. This status represents the world’s collective commitment to preserve and protect the cultural and historical importance of a site, ensuring that present and future generations can seek inspiration and foster a deeper understanding of the heritage that binds humanity.

A Workshop in Time

Preservation goes beyond mere restoration; it involves a meticulous balance of art and science. Conservation not only aims to stop time’s erosion but is also a promise to the future, offering a narrative of the past within the present. The town’s stone walls and the labyrinthine streets are messages carved in fortitude.

Time Travel With a Mediterranean Twist

The Old Town of Rhodes offers a unique mix of timeless beauty and history, captivating modern travelers. It provides an opportunity to explore a rich heritage, inviting visitors to discover a world where ancient secrets and sensory pleasures mix.

As a center of antiquity, Rhodes appeals to those interested in the past and present, offering discoveries and a deep connection with history in a mythical Mediterranean setting.