Nestled on the northeastern coast of the beautiful Greek island of Rhodes lies a historic gem – the Old Town. This walled city, surrounded by imposing medieval walls, is a journey through time, filled with stories and secrets waiting to be discovered.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rhodes Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Its labyrinthine streets are lined with ancient buildings that showcase various influences from Byzantine, Ottoman, and Italian cultures. Walking through these narrow alleys feels like stepping back in time as you immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this enchanting place.
As you enter through one of the seven gates into this 2.4 kilometer-long fortress, you will immediately feel transported into a different era. The gateways themselves speak volumes about its past – the Sea Gate built by Grand Master Orsini de Loubenbon in 1441 as an extension to his personal residence and the timeless St John’s Gate adorned with intricate details and decorations.
Once inside, you can wander aimlessly or opt for a guided tour to fully appreciate all that Rhodes Old Town has to offer. Start your journey with a visit to the Palace of Grand Master’s – a grandiose castle rhodesoldtown.gr that showcases Gothic architecture combined with elements from classical antiquity. Marvel at its courtyards adorned with Roman sculptures and mosaics before climbing up to enjoy panoramic views over this magnificent town.
Continue your exploration towards Ippokratous Square – also known as Knight’s square due to the statue honoring Grand Master William II occupying center stage. From here on out, every corner unveils new surprises – be it picturesque churches such as Panagia tou Kastrou or Synagogue Kahal Shalom converted from an old Catholic church.
An Oberland museum located within an old mansion displays exhibits ranging from costumes belonging to Sultans’ harems during their occupation or other artifacts donated by Knight-Order. This is just one of the numerous museums that hold intriguing collections – another such museum is the Archaeological Museum which hosts a selection from prehistoric finds to early Christian sculptures.
Apart from its historical significance, Rhodes Old Town also offers a delightful culinary experience with an array of traditional Greek tavernas and restaurants serving authentic local dishes. The old town comes alive during sunset as bars and nightclubs bring music to the streets – making it a must-visit location for both history enthusiasts and partygoers alike.
A journey through Rhodes Old Town truly allows you to step back in time, uncovering its vibrant past filled with conquests, architecture, art, and culinary delights. So why not pack your bags and embark on this magical journey? You won’t be disappointed!