Among the Dedecanese islands of Greece, Rhodes is considered to be not only the largest island of all, but the historical capital. The island is situated between Crete and Athens and has been named after the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem who governed the island from 1310-1522. Rhodes is famous worldwide for being the home of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that being the Colossus.

The endless natural beauty, numerous historical sights and wonderful hospitality are just some of the reasons why Rhodes has developed into one of the most popular touristic holiday destinations of Greece. Gorgeous sandy beaches, glistening turquoise waters, ancient historic monuments, traditional tavernas serving delicious local dishes can be found everywhere throughout Rhodes.

"It Takes a Lifetime for One to Discover and Unravel Greece but Only a Moment to Fall in Love With Her"

Throughout the island you will easily find a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxurious hotels and boutiques, superb villas and self-catering apartments and studios - no matter your taste and requirements, a holiday to Rhodes is one which will not disappoint!

The Old Town of Rhodes is truly something unique. Full of small, narrow cobbled walkways which automatically make you feel as if you have stepped back into the Byantine times. Some of the most iconic attractions are located in the Town of Rhodes such as the Palace of Grand Master, the old port of Mandraki, Hippocrates Square and the Street of Knights. Head south of the island to the lovely town of Lindos which is packed with honey-cone colored houses and of course the ancient Acropolis which dominates the town.

Rhodes is known to be the first of the islands located in the Aegean to produce wines. As a result of this there are numerous vineyards dotted around the island - some of which hold open days for tourists to come and taste their local produces.

Although the island of Rhodes has a high popularity and draws in thousands of tourists each summer, the island is big enough to allow one to feel at ease and tranquility under the warmth of the Mediterranean sunshine.

Things To Do and See in Rhodes

Located roughly 45 km south of Rhodes Town is the historical town of Lindos which was established by the Dorians back in the 10th century BC. Today, archaeological ruins can be found located both inside and around the Acropolis of Lindos. As a result one can get a sense of the wealth of this ancient town. One of the most important and iconic monuments is the 4th century Doric temple which was declared to Athena Lindia - a place where people would gather to worship their goddess in offerings and even sacrifices. Today the site belongs to the Ministry of Greek Culture and has undergone several works by both Greek and foreign archaeologists to safeguard and reform this magnificent ancient monument.

Grand Master Palace

Located on the well-known Street of Knights in the Old Town of Rhodes lies the Palace of Grand Masters. Formerly constructed on the foundations of the Temple of 'Helios' otherwise known as the God of Sun and was the residence of the chief and administrative centre of the Medieval times. The palace was made up 158 rooms, although today only 24 of them invite visitors in. The castle follows a very elegant interior with antique furnishings of the 16th and 17th century, grand sculptures, rich and colorful carpets, vibrant marbles and Oriental vases. While the exterior is filled with numerous statues and figures of the Greek and Roman era. The Palace of Grand Masters is certainly one not to be missed!

Roughly 10 km from Rhodes Town in the town of Ialyssos is the Filerimos Monastery which has been devoted to the Virgin Mary. The monastery displays a unique architecture in comparison to the classic monasteries found throughout Greece. Filerimos was built by the Knights of Saint John back in the 15th century on a hilltop overlooking the town. The monastery was built using natural stones in a Gothic style. Currently the monastery remains almost untouched and well preserved. Filerimos enjoys a very soothing atmosphere and is definitely one to add to the list of must sees!

The Acropolis of Rhodes is one of the most iconic sites of the island. The grand citadel was once filled with sanctuaries, gigantic temples and public buildings all of which were strategically constructed on perpendicular platforms that were supported by unbeatable high walls. Today, one can expect to see some of the most remarkable monuments which have been discovered by archaeologists for example: The Temple of Atheana and Zeus, Nymphaia, the Temple of Apollo and the grand Stadium. Although only few remains still exist, one is still able to get a vague understanding of its original greatness and honor.

Located in the Old Town of Rhodes one will find the Archaelogical Museum. The construction of this building started back in 1440 by Grand Master de Lastic and was later completed by Grand Master d'Aubusson in 1948. Several years later the building underwent construction for a second time by the Italians in the early 20th century as well as the whole Medieval Town of Rhodes. At this current date the museum holds a collection of items found from numerous excavations which have taken place all over the island as well as some of the small islets of the Dodecanese. A history lovers dream!

The well-known Butterfly Valley is a picturesque natural reserve located approximately 25 km west of the Capital. The reserve is a fertile valley featuring mesmerizing natural springs and waterfalls. From the months of May to September the valley gets swamped with butterflies hence why hundreds of tourists come to this location to watch this pretty display of nature at its best. There is a wooden bridge, small in size that cross the river in which one will find a pathway which leads up to the Monastery of Panagia Kalopetra. The Butterfly Valley is a wonderful excursion with an option to enjoy a light lunch or drink in one of the few traditional tavernas located above the waterfalls.

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