Fethiye to Rhodes Ferry

Rhodes Island: The Jewel of the Aegean

A Tale of Two Cities: The Old and New City of Rhodes

Rhodes, the largest of the Greek islands, boasts a stunning landscape of beaches, medieval castles, and vibrant history. The island’s capital is divided into two distinct sections: the Old City and the New City.

The Old City: A Medieval Masterpiece

Enclosed within imposing stone walls, the Old City of Rhodes is one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval settlements. Its narrow, stone-paved alleys, Gothic churches, Byzantine influences, and Ottoman remnants reflect the island’s long and layered history.

Notable landmarks include:

• Palace of the Grand Masters – A stunning fortress and former residence of the Knights of St. John.
• Collegium Building and Knights’ Hospital – Key structures from the time of the Knights.
• Knights’ Inns – Historic accommodations used by knights from different regions.
• The Palace of the Castellan – Another medieval fortress.
• Mosques and Byzantine Churches – Testament to the island’s diverse past.
• Traditional Rhodian Houses and Mansions – Influenced by Venetian and Arab architecture.

The New City: A Blend of Italian Elegance and Modern Energy

Following the Ottoman conquest in 1522, new settlements arose outside the Old City walls. The majority of buildings in the New City date to the Italian occupation, featuring neo-Gothic and Venetian architectural styles. Carefully planned with spacious streets, parks, and squares, it offers a stark contrast to the winding alleys of the Old City.

Highlights of the New City include:

• The Governor’s Palace – A striking mix of Byzantine, medieval, and Spanish influences.
• Casino and National Theatre – Adding to the city’s cosmopolitan charm.
• Traditional Dance Theatre – Showcasing Greek cultural heritage.

The Beaches of Rhodes

Rhodes is home to a variety of stunning beaches, ranging from bustling shores with water sports to secluded coves with crystal-clear waters.

Beaches in and Around Rhodes Town

• Akti Miaouli & Elli Beach – Located within the capital, these beaches offer beautiful views of the Turkish coast and steady winds, ideal for windsurfing, surfing, and jet skiing.
• Ixia & Ialysos Beach (7 km from Rhodes) – Popular for their strong winds, attracting windsurfers.

Beaches of Kalithea (10 km from Rhodes Town)

• Kalithea Beaches – Famous for their historic thermal springs, surrounded by pine and palm trees.

Beaches of Faliraki (14 km from Rhodes Town)

• Faliraki Beach – A 4 km stretch of golden sand with extensive water sports, bungee jumping, and a water park.
• Ladiko Anthony Quinn Beach – A scenic cove known for its connection to The Guns of Navarone, perfect for snorkeling.
• Tranganou & Vagies Beach – Tranganou is partly untouched with a local fish tavern, while Vagies offers a small craft market.

Beaches of Afandou (20 km from Rhodes Town)

• Afandou Beach – A mix of sand and pebbles with fewer crowds due to the lack of rental facilities.
• Ladiko Beach – A small, secluded spot surrounded by hills.

Rhodes in History

Mythological Origins

According to Greek mythology, Rhodes was a gift to Helios, the sun god, after Zeus divided the earth among the Olympians but forgot Helios. As a new island rose from the sea, Helios bathed it in light, making Rhodes the most beautiful island in the Aegean.

Ancient and Medieval History

• First Inhabitants: The Carians from Asia Minor were the island’s earliest settlers, followed by the Phoenicians, who introduced the first alphabet.
• Minoans & Achaeans: The Minoans from Crete lived on Rhodes peacefully for centuries before the Achaeans arrived in 1400 BC and established a powerful state.
• Dorian Rule: The Dorians later founded Lindos, Ialysos, and Kamiros, turning Rhodes into a significant Mediterranean trade center.
• Persian & Roman Influence: In the 5th century BC, Rhodes briefly fell under Persian control before regaining independence and thriving as a commercial hub.
• Medieval Era: In the 7th century, the Knights of St. John transformed Rhodes into a Western stronghold, making it a crucial stop for trade between Europe and the East. Goods like caviar, textiles, wine, and spices flowed through its ports.

Modern Connections

For travelers between Turkey and Greece, the Fethiye to Rhodes ferry offers a scenic and convenient route, bridging two cultures and histories across the Aegean.