Rhodes: The historic capital of the Dodecanese

Rhodes, the fourth largest island in Greece and the historic capital of the Dodecanese, is a whole capital in itself. The Medieval city, the castles, the ancient treasures, the nature, the beaches, the accommodation, the food classify it as one of those islands that have it all.

However, in recent years Rhodes has been identified with the hordes of drunk tourists who arrive and flock to Faliraki, thus creating second thoughts in those who flirt with the idea of ​​holidays on the island. A visit alone is enough for the “city of the Knights”, as it has been characterized, to manage to “seduce” and convince even the most ill-intentioned. Prove the following attractions and addresses worth visiting during your visit to convince you to visit it.

The Medieval City

The beautiful Medieval City of Rhodes – an amalgam of a variety of architectures from different time periods – was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1998. Walking through the alleys within its walls, you will see before your eyes come to life legends, myths and tales with knights. Undoubtedly, the most obvious influences in its architecture are those of the Order of the Knights of St. John and the Ottomans. Today, the Medieval City is a living organism, where the heart of tourism, trade and entertainment on the Emerald Island beats loudly.

Palace of the Grand Magister

The most important monument from the time of the rule of the Order of the Knights of St. John on the island of Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Magister, appears impressive and imposing after climbing Knights Street in the Medieval City of Rhodes. Built on the site of the lower Acropolis of Ancient Rhodes, in the original location of the temple of the Sun God, the palace was created in the 14th century by the knights of St. John in order to be the personal residence of the Grand Magister, operating at the same time as its administrative centre of the city.

Hippocrates Square

One of the busiest and most photographed places in the Medieval City of Rhodes, Hippocrates Square is a reference point for both visitors to the island and locals. This is where all the activity in the Old Town is concentrated. There is not a day that tourists can find themselves inside the walls and not pass through Hippocrates Square, even once, as it is full of traditional taverns and modern cafes.

From here begins Socratous Street, one of the most famous streets of the Old Town, which is full of shops with various items, such as jewellery, souvenirs, leather and tourist items. In the square, you will also have the opportunity to admire Castellania, a stone building with elements of Renaissance style, which is located just behind the fountain at the most central point of Hippocrates Square. It is one of the most important medieval buildings, as the criminal court of the Knights operated here.

Lindos

In the southeastern part of the island and at a distance of 50 km from the city centre of Rhodes, Lindos is amphitheatrical built and welcomes you with its pale white “smile”. Many call her “Cycladic of Rhodes”. To get to this point, it is suggested that you have your own means of transportation, which will provide a substantial solution to the problem of your travels. So you can turn to the Enjoy Travel car hire solution that includes a branch on the island to solve your transportation problem economically.

The entrance of cars to the settlement is prohibited, so you will leave your means of transport in the municipal parking lot before the turn that will lead you to the central square of Lindos, and you will meet the photographed and beautiful destination on foot. There you’ll get to see clear alleys with impressive captain’s houses (these buildings have typical pebbled courtyards) that invite you to get lost in them and stay there to enjoy their beautiful corners and pictures with colourful bougainvillaeas, tourist shops and island cafes. What more can someone ask for?