ABOUT RHODES
THE ISLAND OF RHODES
Information about the historical island of Rhodes
Rhodes is the largest island of the archipelago of the Dodecanese (meaning in Greek: twelve islands) and one of the biggest Greek islands (population: 117 000 inhabitants, total area: 1 400 km2). The town of Rhodes is the capital of the island (population: 52 000 inhabitants, distance from Athens: 260 km SE) and the prefecture of the Dodecanese.
According to the Greek mythology, Zeus gave Rhodes to God Sun, who was captivated by her beauty and since then he generously gives all his warmth to her and makes it the ideal place to enjoy unforgettable summer holiday in the hug of the Mediterranean Sea.
The beauty of Rhodes, its strategic position, and its fertile land has not gone unnoticed over the centuries. Many conquerors have passed through the Rhodes and occupied it for shorter or longer periods. All left their cultural marks both in the built environment and the culture of the contemporary Rhodians ... each corner of the island has an interesting story to tell from the past. One of the most fascinating sights of Rhodes is its medieval town with the amazing medieval buildings that once served as the headquarters of the St. John’s Hospitallers Knights. Excellent also is the acropolis of ancient Lindos.
But Rhodes is not only known for its history and its unique historical monuments, but also for a magnificent natural landscape with sunny coasts and crystal clear seas. The vast coastline (253 km) containing hundreds of wonderful beaches that are waiting for you to explore them.
Daily ferry routes connect Rhodes with Piraeus (the port of Athens) and many other ports of the Dodecanese, Crete, and Turkey, while there are numerous flights from Athens International Airport and many other local and international airports to Rhodes.