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RODOS - The island of the sun

Rodos, the largest of the Dodecanese islands is the beautiful island of roses which has a unique physical scenery that does not cease to impress its visitors. Also unique is its climate with more sunny days than any other place in Europe. With practically zero crime rate and friendly and hospitable people, you'll be surprised how easy life in Rodos can be. Rodos is known as the isle of the Sun. Pindar mentions in one of his Odes that it was born of the union of Helios the sun god and the nymph, Rhoda. In antiquity it also bore the names Aithraia, Ophiousa and Telchinis. Spring and fall are ideal for exploring Rodos' rich collection of historic sites and monuments, which bring Greek history alive in microcosm, from the ruins of Classical temples to Crusader castles and towns and Ottoman mosques.


rodos island

The city is a port and a trading center for agricultural products, manufactures include carpets, brandy, cigarettes, and soap. Near the important southern harbour is the old walled city which was built mainly in the early 14th century by the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem. Notable buildings in the old section include the Grand Hospital of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Masters. The modern section, near the smaller northern harbour, contains government buildings, hotels and a national theater. The island abounds in lovely and interesting places to visit such as the Valley of the Butterflies; the village of Trianda near the site of ancient lalyssos on the top of Filerimos hill, where the 15th century monastery of the same name also stands, along with the ruined temples of Athena and Zeus Poliea in the ancient acropolis, Kameiros and the ruins of the Dorian city, Kalithea with its thermal baths; Koskinou, Afandou, Falirakl and Rodini.

rodos
the town of Rodos

On the west part of the island, the Acropolis of Rodos offers panoramic views over the town and coast. Named after an English admiral who kept watch here for Napoleon's fleet in 1802,it is also the site of a 3rd century BC Hellenistic city, with a stadium, acropolis Odeon and ruins of temples to Apollo, Athena and Zeus. Archaeological discoveries indicate that Rodos figured prominently in the Aegean civilization of ancient times. In the 2nd millennium BC, when the island first appears in history, it was inhabited by the Dorians, and its chief towns were Camirus, Lindus, and lalysus. These towns were flourishing commercial centers with colonies scattered throughout the Aegean basin.

Rodos old casle
Lindos resort in Rodos

For many centuries the history of the island is obscure, but the three cities are recorded as members, in the 5th century BC, of the Delian League, a confederacy of Greek states under the leadership of Athens. The three cities separated from Athens in 412BC. In 408BC the city of Rodos, constructed according to designs by the
Greek architect Hippodamus of Miletus, was completed. Throughout most of the following century, the island was involved in the internecine wars of Greece. In 332BC, Rodos submitted to the sovereignty of Alexander the Great. On the death of Alexander in 32313C, the citizens of Rodos revolted and expelled the Macedonians. Rodos, being a pioneer tourism destination in Greece and with the privilege of operating two schools of tourism professions and one of official guides, has been distinguished in the quality of services rendered to tourists.

Hotels in Rodos island
Hotel Doreta Beach Resort
Tholos area, Rodos island
Doreta Beach Resort is situated on the west coast of Rhodes in Tholos, a small pretty village.(17km from Rhodes town). The hotel has a great location, directly on the beautiful beach. More…
Aldemar Paradise Royal Mare
Kalithea, Rodos island, Greece
Travel with Aldemar and sample some of the most unique flavours in the world against the background of the Aegean Sea accompanied by the sounds of traditional Greek music. More…
Hotel Alexia
Hotel Alexia is located on the west side of the island of Rodos, 30 m. from the beach, only 5 minutes walking distance from the tourist / commercial center of Rodos town and from the Mandraki harbor, the Aquarium and the casino More...
Lambis Hotel Suites
Krana-Lindos, Rodos Greece
This newly built modern complex is ideal for those seeking a relaxing base, with a pool, from which to explore the charming village of Lindos. More…
Studio Lyristis
Faliraki, Faliraki (Rodos)
The Lyristis Studios are located in a quiet area of Faliraki and within easy walking distance of many bars, restaurants, shops and nightlife. The studios are spacious and tastefully furnished. More…
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