Rhodes, or Rodos, is a walled city on the coast of the island of Rhodes in Greece. Rhodes is a great break from strolling whitewashed villages on the Greek islands, if for some perverse reason you feel as if you need such a break.
The restored medieval architecture of the old wall-shadowed city of Rhodes is an antidote to the brightness of the islands. Make the most of this difference by visiting the Archeological Museum of Rhodes, strangely omitted from most ship tours.
The large collection includes the tombstones of many of the crusading knights of St. John, who once made this island their own. In the huge medieval-style hall that houses these, the light is dim and atmospheric.
A popular cruise ship destination, most off-ship tours include a visit to Lindos in the middle of the island. Lindos is a lovely village, kept that way by government decrees limiting building and assuring that restoration work is in keeping with the atmosphere of the village.
A word on reaching that acropolis: the path up is steep, jagged, and lined with river polished stones, laid out in beautiful patterns of black and white called chochlakia. This style of paving was created in part to make it difficult for pirates to plunder the island.
However dangerous the ascent, the end result is a truly breathtaking view. Peer out over the sea from gaps in the high wall, and then pass the famous trireme carved out of the living rock on your way up to the acropolis. Here stand the lovely Doric pillars of the temple of Athena Lindos which once was the crowning jewel of this island.
Visiting world-famous medieval architecture or archaeological sites is only one of the reasons travelers visit Greece. Here are a few more reasons why you should plan your vacation to Greece and book hotels in Rhodes or Rhodes accommodation.
1. Have fun in the sun on great Greek beaches – bare if you dare.
2. Expand your understanding of Greek culture for educational reasons
3. Explore your Greek family history
4. Get married or enjoy a honeymoon
5. Experience Greek arts including music, dance, and theater
6. Spend time enjoying a sport or hobby in an unusual location
Most people combine more than one reason in a single trip. Whatever your reason for traveling to Greece, this magical country will fulfill your expectations – especially if you spend some time planning your trip and checking out Rhodes hotels.
