Rhodes is an island in Dodecanese archipelago, the fourth largest in Greece. Because of its natural beauty, historical and cultural content, it is one of the main tourist areas of that country. According to the mythological belief, its origin is due to the fact that it was a gift from Zeus to Helios, the god of Sun; there he fathered seven sons and a daughter with the nymph Rodo, daughter of Poseidon. For this reason the daughter took the name of Rhodes in honor of that nymph, those who inhabit the island of Rhodes to this day continue to consider themselves children of the Sun.
Rhodes is the capital of the Dodecanese, its medieval city is protected by great walls, which are now a World Heritage Site, according to UNESCO. This small city of narrow streets made of stone, is full of houses, arches, towers, Byzantine buildings and mosques. The walls are the characteristic symbol of this city, they are standing from the fourteenth century, as they surround the entire city protecting it, they make its conservation status be perfect.
When entering this beautiful city we find the main road, which is called “The Knights Street”, there not only we will wonder with its historic and cultural elements, but also there are diverse taverns and shops with Rhodes typical products, in which you can spend a good time and at the same time purchase those so longed souvenirs for our loved ones.
Among its main architectural works to visit, there are the Knights Hospital built in 1440, better known nowadays as the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Master, Castellania fountain, Panagia tou Bourgou Cathedral and Agios Fanourios chapel.
Within Rhodes there is also an area commonly known as the Jewish district, in which is the Kahal Shalom Synagogue, of imposing beauty and great artistic value. We will also find the old Rhodes, better known as the medieval Ottoman, in which the Ibrahim Mosque is the obligatory stop, which is the oldest in Rhodes, not to mention the different Ottoman buildings that will make us aware of little more than another culture, impregnated us with extensive knowledge.
If what you want to know are more natural places and with less historical content, Rhodes also has the so-called “Valley of the Butterflies” in which not only there is an imposing natural beauty and landscaping, but also these beings multiply and fill with color all over the place, something that without a doubt is a very rewarding experience for lovers of natural experiences.
This fascinating island has become a mandatory stop for the thousands of tourists who travel the Greek islands in cruise, Rhodes stands out among the others for the great cultural and historical burden it brings, beyond the own and natural fun of an island. Without a doubt, we recommend you take this trip and learn more about this magical destination.
ALFA