The Medieval City of Rhodes

The Medieval City of Rhodes

From 1309 to 1523, the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem occupied Rhodes and began fortifying it. The city was later ruled by the Turks and Italians. The Upper Town is one of the most beautiful complexes of Gothic urban architecture, featuring the Palace of the Grand Master, the Great Hospital, and Knight Street. The Lower Town has not only Gothic architecture but also mosques, public baths, and other structures from the Ottoman Empire era.

The Upper Town mainly consists of straight streets branching off a central thoroughfare. In contrast, the Lower Town has a more spacious and irregular layout with streets and alleys leading to small squares. A 4-kilometer-long city wall built in the early 14th century surrounds both the Upper and Lower Towns. Both areas are packed with impressive historic landmarks. The Collachium in the Upper Town, where the knights resided, is particularly striking, housing residences of notable rulers, knight inns, and a hospital. The larger Lower Town contains not only Crusader-era buildings but also Islamic structures from the Ottoman period, such as mosques, bathhouses, and arched alleyways.

The Fortress of Rhodes had a significant impact on the eastern Mediterranean basin during the late Middle Ages and is considered one of the most beautiful cities of the Gothic era. The city records an important chapter of military rule during the Crusades in the Eastern Mediterranean. The famous giant statue at the harbor entrance and Islamic commemorative architecture further enhance its historical significance.

Medieval City of Rhodes

Must-visit reason: One of the most beautiful cities of the Gothic era

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Greece[Greece]

Province/State where the attraction is located: South Aegean Region [South Aegean Region]