Time traveling in fascinating Rhodes
Greetings to all travel enthusiasts! With Christmas just around the corner it is time for a shopping spree. Pop out to your local dealer and get equipped with a medieval sword and armour plus the appropriate helmet and shield because today we shall visit the Island of the Knights. You will also need to buy a bathing suit and some tanning oil since the Greek island of Rhodes is a popular destination in Europe that boasts an average of 300 days of sunshine.
Rhodes is the largest island of the Dodecanese group located in the south-eastern Aegean. It is mostly famous for the amazing beach resorts, the historic landmarks and the Medieval Old Town which is a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rhodes was home of the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Colossus was the tallest statue of the ancient era standing at approximately 35 meters high which is comparable to the Statue of Liberty. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 226BC but fortunately now there are plans to build a new majestic Colossus at the harbour of the island.
Rhodes is an island that captivates and harmoniously blends the marvels of the past with the beauty and comfort of the present. One moment you are relaxing in a great beach near your luxurious resort and within 10 minutes you are magically transported to the mediaeval times walking through the Medieval Old Town of Rhodes with the company of the Knights of St John.
Visiting the Old Town is like entering a large neighbourhood of the astonishing past. Walk along the cobblestone pavements and get lost in the hundreds of small narrow streets where each lane is a different part of history. Discover the unique feeling of bliss as you stroll through the Knights Street and face the daunting sight of the great palace.
The Palace of Grandmaster of Knights is a grandiose medieval castle of Gothic architecture that was originally built by the Knights Hospitaller when they occupied Rhodes in the 14th century and used it as headquarters, fortress and palace of their Grandmaster. It is an imposing massive structure with the gothic round towers and the arched gates. It is strongly recommended that you go on a whole guided tour of the Palace as it has much to offer and you have the opportunity to travel to a different moment in time. There you can appreciate the amazing artefacts and paintings, the impressive antique furniture and sculptures, the flamboyant mosaic and marble tiles.
Another must visit is the petite picturesque village of Lindos. No cars are allowed in this traditional village with the white houses, the stone paths and the narrow and winding roads. It is a place that oozes and smells like Greek tradition and it is full of small shops, cafeterias and restaurants.
The site of the Ancient Acropolis of Lindos stands on the top of the hill overlooking and protecting the village of Lindos through the centuries. It served as a temple devoted to Athena Lindia where the inhabitants worshiped their patron goddess with gifts and sacrifices. The site is sheltered by a medieval castle that was built by the Knights at a later date. Exploring the Acropolis of Lindos is like walking in history and from here you can visualise the sheer beauty of this amazing place.
This is all for now my dear fellow adventurers. In conclusion please remember that life is short and beautiful and it is strictly up to you to enjoy it and live it to the fullest. For a memorable vacation that combines the best of both worlds visit Rhodes