Nestled in the beautiful Aegean Sea, Rhodes Island stands as a testament to Greece’s rich history and cultural heritage. While this Greek island offers a myriad of attractions, its castles are not to be missed. In this post, explore our top 5 must see castles in Rhodes and plan your next trip to Greece!
Plan your trip to Rhodes with our 6 Day Itinerary!
1. Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
Location: Old Town, Rhodes Town
How to Get There:
The Palace of the Grand Master sits majestically at the heart of Rhodes Town, within the fortified walls of the Old Town. Visitors can easily reach it by walking through the cobblestone streets of the medieval city or by taking a short taxi ride from various points on the island.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
- Originally built in the 14th century by the Knights of Rhodes, the palace underwent significant renovations during the Italian occupation in the early 20th century, blending Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.
- The palace houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine and medieval artifacts, including intricate mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich past.
- From the palace’s imposing battlements, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Rhodes Town and the azure expanse of the Aegean Sea, making it a photographer’s paradise.
2. Castle of Monolithos
Location: Monolithos Village, Rhodes
How to Get There:
Situated at the top of a rugged cliff overlooking the tranquil waters of the Aegean, the Castle of Monolithos is accessible by car or bus from Rhodes Town. Visitors can follow the scenic coastal road southward, soaking in the island’s breathtaking landscapes along the way.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
- Built by the Knights of Saint John in the 15th century, the Castle of Monolithos served as a strategic stronghold against Ottoman invasions, commanding unparalleled views of the surrounding sea and countryside.
- Despite its partially ruined state, the castle’s imposing battlements and medieval architecture still exude an aura of grandeur, transporting visitors back in time to an era of knights and crusaders.
- A short hike up the cliff rewards adventurous travelers with spectacular vistas of the Aegean Sea and the picturesque village of Monolithos below, offering an ideal spot for sunset photography and quiet contemplation.
3. Castle of Kritinia
Location: Kritinia Village, Rhodes
How to Get There:
Tucked away in the scenic village of Kritinia on the northwest coast of Rhodes, the Castle of Kritinia is accessible by car or bus from Rhodes Town. Visitors can embark on a leisurely drive through the island’s lush countryside, savoring the sights and sounds of rural Greece along the way.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
- Perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the sparkling waters of the Aegean, the Castle of Kritinia dates back to the 16th century and offers commanding views of the surrounding landscape, including nearby islands and the Turkish coast.
- Despite centuries of wear and tear, the castle’s impressive fortifications, including massive stone walls and towers, bear witness to its former glory as a bastion of defense against marauding pirates and invaders.
- A visit to the Castle of Kritinia provides a fascinating glimpse into Rhodes’ tumultuous history, with informative signage and guided tours available to help visitors unravel the mysteries of this ancient fortress.
4. Castle of Lindos
Location: Lindos Village, Rhodes
How to Get There:
Situated on the southeastern coast of Rhodes, the Castle of Lindos is easily accessible by car or bus from Rhodes Town. Visitors can follow the scenic coastal road southward, passing through picturesque villages and olive groves before arriving at the charming village of Lindos.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
- Dating back to the 10th century BC, the Castle of Lindos occupies a commanding position atop a rocky promontory, overlooking the azure waters of the Aegean and the whitewashed houses of Lindos village below.
- The castle’s rich history spans millennia, with successive waves of conquerors, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Knights of Saint John, leaving their mark on its ancient walls and ramparts.
- A visit to the Castle of Lindos offers travelers a fascinating journey through time, with guided tours available to explore its labyrinthine corridors, ancient chambers, and panoramic viewpoints, providing unparalleled insights into Rhodes’ storied past.
5. Castle of Feraklos
Location: Haraki Village, Rhodes
How to Get There:
Tucked away in the tranquil village of Haraki on the east coast of Rhodes, the Castle of Feraklos is accessible by car or bus from Rhodes Town. Visitors can embark on a scenic drive along the island’s picturesque coastline, passing through quaint villages and olive groves before reaching the charming village of Haraki.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
- Dating back to the Byzantine era, the Castle of Feraklos stands as a silent sentinel overlooking the azure waters of the Aegean, its weathered stone walls and rugged battlements bearing witness to centuries of turbulent history.
- Despite its relatively small size, the castle’s strategic location made it an important defensive outpost against pirates and invaders, with panoramic views of the surrounding sea and countryside.
- A visit to the Castle of Feraklos offers travelers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life, with opportunities for leisurely strolls along the scenic coastline, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and sampling delicious seafood at local tavernas.
From the imposing fortifications of the Palace of the Grand Master in Old Town Rhodes to the rugged cliffs of the Castle of Monolithos, each castle offers a unique glimpse into Rhodes’ past. Visiting a few of these castles will be an experience you won’t soon forget!
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