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Rhodes

“The island of the knights“

Rhodes is more than certain to captivate you.

Rhodes is the largest island of the Dodecanese and the easternmost island in the southern Aegean.

From mythology until recent history, the island’s past is charming and mysterious:it is said that the Sun god, Apollo, was absent when the twelve gods distributed the world.So, he asked to be granted the ‘’island that would emerge from the waves’’. He named it Rhodes, after the name of his beloved, and never stopped bathing it in his light. The three cities of the island, Ialyssos, Kamiros, and Lindos, were named after their sons.Thus, Rhodes has always had a place in the sun’s heart, who sheds his light on this blessed island, and fills it with green ,colour, and beauty.

Administrative Region: South Aegean

Prefecture: Dodecanese Area

Dodecanese
Area:
1,400.684 km²

Highest peak:
Attavyros

Regional Unit:
Rhodes

Capital:
Rhodes (city)
Area: 19.481 km²

Elevation: 10 meters

Country: Greece

Names

Since antiquity, the name of Rhodes has been associated with a flower, the “rose” (rhodon). This flower served as a “speaking symbol” of the State of Rhodes and was used to indicate the origin of many objects from the island (it was depicted on coins, ceramics, etc.). The reference to Rhodes as “the island of roses” has survived through the centuries, both in the Greek language and in other languages. It is believed that both the name Rhodes and the word rose have pre-Greek origins.

Nowadays, the island of Rhodes is also referred to as:
• “The island of knights,” due to the numerous monuments left by the Order of the Knights of St. John from the period when they controlled the island.
• “The island of the sun,” due to its extensive sunshine throughout the year.
• “The emerald island,” due to its shape, which resembles the precious stone.

In every corner of the city and under every stone on the island lies a small piece of Rhodes' 2,400-year history.

Antiquity, Hellenistic Period, and the Colossus of Rhodes
Our journey begins in antiquity when Rhodes was first inhabited during the Neolithic period. The island flourished during the Classical period, around the 5th century B.C., when the three great cities of Ialyssos, Kamiros, and Lindos united to form a powerful entity. During this period, Rhodes became an important commercial power in the Aegean.

The Hellenistic period marked a significant era in Rhodes’ history. The island’s strategic location made it a crucial player in the Mediterranean trade routes. The most iconic symbol of this era was the Colossus of Rhodes, a giant statue of the god Helios, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The Roman conquest brought Rhodes into the folds of the Roman Empire, leading to a blend of local and Roman cultures. After the Roman period, Rhodes became part of the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantine era saw the island as a stronghold against invasions and pirate attacks, leading to the construction of strong fortresses that still stand today.

The medieval period brought a new chapter with the arrival of the Knights of Saint John in the 14th century. They transformed the city of Rhodes into a fortress, building impressive walls and grand palaces. The Palace of the Grand Master and the Street of the Knights are living testimonies of their legacy. This medieval acropolis and emblem of the Knights remains a powerful symbol of their influence.
The Ottoman Empire took control of Rhodes in 1522 after a prolonged siege. During this period, there was a fusion of Greek and Ottoman cultures, which is evident in the island’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. The Ottoman era left a significant mark on Rhodes’ cultural landscape, adding a new layer to its already rich history.
In the early 20th century, Rhodes experienced another cultural shift under Italian rule. The Italians initiated an extensive building and restoration program, blending Art Deco with local styles. This era is characterized mainly by the development of the island’s infrastructure and the promotion of its historic sites.

Since 1915, the Hospital of the Knights has functioned as an archaeological museum, preserving artifacts from the island’s Neolithic to Roman periods. The museum, a historic wonder in itself, lays the foundation for understanding Rhodes’ past in depth. Simultaneously, the Italians conducted research in ancient Kamiros and Karpathos, while giving great importance to the medieval city of Rhodes. They prohibited looting and allowed many excavations throughout the island in order to uncover ancient relics.
During World War II, Rhodes was significantly impacted by the conflicts, changing hands several times. After the war, it was handed from Italy to Britain, and on March 31, 1947, Rhodes was given to the Greek state. In the post-war era, the island was rebuilt and gradually emerged as a top tourist destination.

Modern Rhodes is a blend of its historical past and contemporary Greek life, offering a unique experience to its visitors. Today, Rhodes is not just a holiday destination but a living museum. Efforts to preserve its rich heritage are evident in the restored medieval buildings, ancient sites, and museums. The Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an excellent example of the intersection between preservation and modernity.

Additionally, the Museum of Modern Greek Art presents contemporary art, linking the past with the present. It offers a refreshing perspective on how modern Greek artists interpret their rich heritage.

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