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Table of Contents
Introduction
The Red Gate at the Castle of Rhodes is a significant historical landmark, serving as a prominent entrance to the medieval fortress that played a crucial role in the defense of the city during the Crusades. Built in the 15th century by the Knights of St. John, this impressive structure exemplifies the military architecture of the era and showcases intricate stonework and defensive features.
Why is it called “Red Gate”?
The Red Gate at the Castle of Rhodes is often referred to as the Gate of St. John, owing to its proximity to the tower named after the same saint, which is part of the defensive network that encircled the castle. The dual nomenclature is reflective of its historical significance and the events that transpired in this area.
The term “Red Gate” is particularly evocative, as it is believed to be derived from the horrific massacres that occurred during the fall of Constantinople to the Turks in 1453. These events left a profound impact on the region and imbued the gate with a haunting legacy, serving as a stark reminder of the turmoil and violence that marked this era in history.
This combination of names illustrates the gate’s multifaceted role within the context of both local defense and broader historical events.
The Early Days The Master Builder’s Gateway
Originally dubbed “the door of the master builder,” the Red Gate at the Castle of Rhodes has been known by several names, including “the gate of Koskinou.” Its strategic location made it invaluable during medieval times, providing merchants with the shortest route to the bustling market. This accessibility bolstered Rhodes’ economic and social life, making the gate a vital passage for goods and people.
The gate’s positioning was no accident—it was a deliberate choice by those who understood the rhythms of commerce and community. Merchants would pass through this gate, their carts laden with goods from distant lands, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of life in Rhodes. The Red Gate thus became a focal point of interaction, trade, and cultural exchange.
The Siege of Rhodes A Fierce Battle at the Red Gate
In the summer of 1522, the Red Gate at the Castle of Rhodes witnessed one of the most significant events in its history—the second Ottoman siege of Rhodes. Led by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, an overwhelming force besieged the city, determined to succeed where they had previously failed 40 years earlier. With 700 ships and 200,000 men, the siege was a formidable challenge for the defenders of Rhodes.
The Red Gate played a crucial role during this siege, serving as a focal point of defense. Despite the relentless assault, the gate withstood the Ottoman forces, reflecting the resilience and determination of its defenders.
Though the Knights of St. John eventually surrendered, the gate remained a symbol of the fierce resistance and strategic importance that characterized this pivotal moment in the island’s history.
The Red Door and the Dark Mulberry Tree Legends of Bloodshed
Above the Red Gate at the Castle of Rhodes, an Arabic inscription reads, “O thou who openest the door, open for us the gate of happiness,” a poignant reminder of its multifaceted history. Yet, the gate is also shrouded in darker tales and legends that have captivated historians and visitors alike.
Nearby stood a black mulberry tree, a site of grim executions during the Ottoman rule. It was here that Christians, including the legendary figure Constantine the Hydra, met their tragic fate.
Captured and imprisoned, Constantine was executed by hanging at this very spot. His body, discarded among branches and rubbish, serves as a stark reminder of the brutal realities of the time, embedding the Red Gate with tales of bloodshed and legend.
From Church to Mosque The Katuran Jamisi
The transformation of religious sites in Rhodes during the Ottoman period is another significant chapter in the history of the Red Gate. The nearby church of St. Andrew was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest, known as the Katuran Jamisi, or “Mosque of Blood.”
This name reflects a massacre during the siege, where so much blood was spilled that it flowed like a river, prompting Suleiman to halt the slaughter.
Today, the site is known as the Virgin Mary of the Castle, symbolizing the island’s complex history and the cultural shifts that have shaped it. The conversion of religious spaces highlights the broader transformations that Rhodes underwent, reflecting the ebb and flow of power and belief.
The Red Gate Through World Wars Italian and British Footsteps
The 20th century brought new challenges and changes to the Red Gate. On May 5, 1912, following the battle of Psinthos, the Italian army entered Rhodes through the Red Gate. This marked the beginning of the Italian occupation, with the gate serving as a command post.
Lieutenant General Giovanni Ameglio commemorated this moment with a marble plaque, marking the Italian Army’s passage. However, the Red Gate’s story did not end with the Italian occupation. During World War II, Rhodes faced heavy bombing by the British, causing significant damage to the gate. Yet, it was restored, preserving its historical significance.
In 1943-44, the British entered Rhodes through the Red Gate as liberators, adding another layer to its complex history.
The Red Gate Witness to Centuries of History
The Red Gate at the Castle of Rhodes is not just an entrance; it symbolizes the island’s rich history, from its medieval significance to its role in 20th-century conflicts. This ancient gate is a testament to Rhodes’ enduring spirit, holding stories of battles and resilience. It invites visitors—whether history lovers or cultural explorers—to discover the island’s fascinating narrative.
