Location

The Island of Sun

According to an old myth, the island of Rhodes was hiding, in all its beauty, under the deep blue water of the Aegean Sea. As soon as it came out, God Helios was enchanted by its unique beauty, so he asked Zeus to have his portion in the division of the world. Since then God Helios shines above the island, giving to Rhodes the fame of the place with the strongest sunshine duration and the longest summer.

Rhodes, situated in the southeastern Aegean Sea, is the capital of the Dodecanese prefecture and has a population of approximately 80,000. It is the financial and cultural centre of the south-eastern Aegean, and successfully combines a lively present with a rich historical past. There are many reasons why Rhodes is one of the most popular resorts in the Mediterranean: the natural surroundings (crystal clear seas, many parks and recreational facilities), the bright sun, and the warm hospitality of the islanders themselves.

Rhodes has been famous since antiquity as the site of Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Medieval town of Rhodes, built by the Hospitalliers Knights, is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe which in 1988 was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lindos

The ancient city-state of Lindos, protected by its strong acropolis, was a major maritime power and experienced a significant cultural growth. Lindos was the birthplace of the wise tyrant Kleoboulos, and it was admired for its wealth, beauty and strategic position. During the period of the Knights its fortress was reinforced and its maritime importance continued into the 19th century. Before reaching Lindos, you can marvel from afar at the panoramic view of the town.

Traditional Lindos, with its white houses, ship-owners mansions, Byzantines churches and cobbled narrow lanes, lies at the foot of the rocky acropolis. Taking one of these narrow lanes through the town, or hiring a donkey from the main square, you can ascend the ancient acropolis that stands dominating the village, surrounded by its strong walls. The ancient Byzantine and Knights remains, as well as its astonishing views over the town and sea, make a visit to the acropolis a must. Some of the sights close to Lindos include: Kalathos, with Vlyha's sandy beach and modern hotel complexes; Pylona's famous church of Panagia Kira; Pefkos, an expanding resort with a long shoreline; Lardos, with its beach, quiet Glystra bay, and traditional tavernas. The monastery of the Archangel Michael at Tharri, close to the village of Laerma, is especially interesting.

Places of interest

• Acropolis of Lindos
• Rhodes Old Town (walled medieval city),
• Acropolis of Rhodes
• Kallithea thermes (spa)
• Filerimos
• Valley of the Butterflies
• Temple of Apollo
• Ancient Kamiros
• Palace of the Grand Masters
• Kahal Shalom Synagogue in the Jewish Quarter
• Archeological Museum
• Castle of Monolithos

Official Website: www.rhodes.gr