Rhodes Old Town

Rhodes Island, Greece

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Rhodes Old Town, located on Rhodes Island, Greece, is a remarkably well-preserved medieval city with a rich history shaped by multiple cultures.

Originating as a Byzantine settlement and expanded significantly by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century, the town features imposing fortification walls blending Gothic, Renaissance, Byzantine, and later Ottoman architectural styles. The Old Town is divided into two parts: the Upper Town, where administrative buildings, the Palace of the Grand Master, and knights’ residences are found, and the Lower Town, containing houses, markets, churches, and synagogues.

The palace itself is a striking fortress symbolizing the Knights’ power and serves today as a museum. Throughout its history, Rhodes Old Town has experienced various cultural influences from its ancient Greek, Byzantine, and medieval knightly phases to Ottoman rule, all visible in its architecture, including mosques and clock towers. 

The fortified walls, city gates like the Amboise Gate, narrow cobblestone streets, and impressive monuments convey the layered historic significance that earned the Old Town UNESCO World Heritage status, making it a captivating testament to Mediterranean history and diverse heritage.