Rhodes

Greece / isl. Rhodes

Rhodes is located southeast of Greece. The Aegean Sea bounds the island on the west, and the Mediterranean Sea - on the east. It is the fourth largest island of the Dodecanese group. The centre of the island is the town of Rhodes. Distance from Athens - 270 sea miles.

Rhodes is deservedly called the pearl of the Mediterranean. The scenic beauty of the island belongs to the heritage of UNESCO. The most common legend says that Rhodes has been a long time under water, and when the island emerged from the water, even Zeus could not hide his delight. Helios compared the region with the beauty of his beloved nymph Rhodes, and named the island after her.

The island's capital - the city of Rhodes - consists of old and new part. Old Town stores ruins of temples of the ancient Greek gods. Its main attraction is The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. New Town hosts modern buildings: hotels, shops, pubs and clubs buried in the lights at night.

Lindos is much older than Rhodes, being the main town of the island before. It is famous for the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia.

Ialysos on Mount Filerimos is the third of the main cities of the island. It's quite an ancient settlement, famous for the remains of the Temple of Athena and Zeus.

Rhodes has mild Mediterranean climate; most days of the year are warm and sunny. North winds bring delicious coolness, winters are warm, snow and low temperatures on the island are rare. Hot sun, warm water and endless beaches are ideally suited for recreation.

Sights

Rhodes is the island of Knights; its history is rich and unique. Archaeological findings and the enormous cultural heritage of the solar island are highly regarded throughout the world. The ancient legends live in every corner of this fabulous island.

The Palace of the Grand Master (beginning of the XIV century) was built as a residence by forces of the Knights Hospitaller. It is also called Castello. The defensive system of the castle is still impressive. Today, the palace with its 205 halls operates as a museum. Its patio is paved with mosaics and decorated with statues of the Hellenistic period.

Acropolis of Lindos is an important archaeological site of the island. It is located on a hill and can be reached through a narrow path as many centuries ago. At the entrance to the Acropolis there is a unique bas-relief of an ancient Greek warship. That means, in ancient times Rhodes had an important maritime importance.

Temple of Athena Lindia is a Greek sanctuary built in the IV century BC in the southern part of the Acropolis. Legend says the temple was erected by Egyptian king’s heir Danaos and his daughters, to protect them from jealousy of goddess Hera.

Archangelos is a small village near the town of Rhodes surrounded by olive groves, vineyards and citrus plantations. The settlement is known for the ruins of Archangelos castle. In the vicinity of the village one can find a house with an old bell. According to legend, it brings good luck to those who ring the bell.

Mount Filerimos is the best viewing point of Rhodes from where you can see two Greek cities: Ixia and Ialysos. From there you can also look at the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and Athena, ancient cathedrals and castles. A steep path called “The Way to Calvary” will lead the brave ones to the highest point of Filerimos. Valley of the Butterflies or the Petaloudes Valley is one of the most interesting places on the island, located in its western part. Being surrounded by a variety of colonies of rare butterflies, you may fell you are in Wonderland.

Entertainment

Despite the fact that Rhodes is famous for its ancient culture, it also has much modern entertainment. The island has bars and casino, clubs and pubs. Nightlife of Rhodes is very diverse and ends only at dawn.

In July, you can visit Watermelon Festival and taste delicious nectar in the Bee Museum. Annual Medieval Festival of Rhodes is traditionally held at the beginning of summer.

Active island holiday includes diving, tennis, golf, music shows and dancing parties in the local restaurants.

Beaches

Rhodes has many sandy and very popular among tourists beaches. Near the picturesque bay of Lindos you can find Agios Pavlos beach, ideally suited to fans of snorkelling, as there is a very interesting underwater world. Tsambika beach is a paradise for those who like to relax and sunbathe. It is equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds. Close to the beach, there are diverse shops and restaurants. Almost wild Prasonisi beach is famous for its strip of sand connecting it to Rhodes - a popular place for surfers.

What to bring

Tourists who visit Rhodes usually bring home fur coats, Greek leather shoes, natural cosmetics, olive oil, original silver jewelry, souvenirs, white wine and textiles, which is best to buy at the local craftsmen. Pay special attention to local painted pottery.

Transport

The International Airport of Rhodes is called Diagoras. There are also two bus terminals. For getting around the island, choose inexpensive taxi. The biggest park is located on the coastal area of ​​Rimini, near the Old Rhodes. You can cross the whole island in an hour and a half. You can also rent a car or ride a bus. Buses run less frequently on weekends, while the boat trips operate actively every day.