Ancient Rhodes

Ancient Rhodes Ancient Rhodes, became part of the legacy left by Alexander the Great, around 322BC. He ruled the island and restored it during his time there. Much later in history, it is said that St Paul came to the island during the time of early Christianity to spread the word of Jesus.

Ancient Rhodes street

The Knights of St John, of Jerusalem, built the great walls that still surround parts of Rhodes today. In circa 1500, the island of Rhodes was taken over by the Turks, after a heavy battle with the army of Soleiman the Magnificent.

The Moorish architecture is still very visible today. In 1912, Italy took over the island from the Turks, and were eventually defeated and Rhodes was returned to Greece in 1948. Ancient Rhodes architecture was Gothic in design, developed by the Knights who resided at Collachium, and the Grand Master's is still there today, with its very impressive inner rooms and outstanding ancient furniture.

Rhodes fortress at night

There are over 150 rooms but only 24 are open to the public. The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is within the ancient Hospital of the Knights building and is most impressive items of ancient Rhodes from different eras, which include items that have been excavated throughout history.

o The stele of Crito &Timarista 5th century BC

o The beautiful monument statue of Aphrodite bathing from the 1st century

o The marble Head of Ilios 250-160 BC

o Headless status of Nymphs

o Mosaic floor from Arkasa on Karpathos

Kamiros, is 30 kilometres inland from the City of Rhodes and is one of Rhodes ancient cities from the 7th century BC, the remains of this beautiful ancient city can still be seen today nearly 3000 years later. Sometimes known as the Greek Pompeii as it was only discovered in 1929.

Ancient Rhodes Arches Although the ancient city of Kamiros is 30 kilometres inland, is worth visiting if you are interested in ancient Greece and there are hotels nearby to stay. The Great Hamam, first mentioned in a local census in 1588, also known as Baths of Suleiman is situated in Arionis Square, in the Old Town of Rhodes is also worth a visit. Built by the Ottomans was originally built as men's baths, but an additional baths for women was built much later by Mustafa Pasha, detracts slightly from the symmetrical structure of the men's baths. The baths were renovated recently and are now open to the public. Return to Rhodes Greece from Ancient Rhodes