Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Rhodes Old Town is like stepping back in time. The ancient city, which dates back to the 4th century BC, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. As you meander through its narrow alleys and hidden courtyards, you can’t help but feel the weight of history all around you.

One of the first things that strikes you as you explore Rhodes Old Town is the impressive defensive walls that encircle it. Built by the Knights of St John in the 14th century, these walls are a testament to the city’s strategic importance throughout history. Walking along them, you can admire sweeping views of both land and sea, imagining what it must have been like for soldiers defending this fortress against invaders.

Inside the walls, the maze-like streets beckon with their charm and mystery. You never know what hidden gem or historical site you might stumble upon next. From ancient mosques to Byzantine churches, from bustling markets to quiet squares, there is something new to discover around every corner.

The architecture of Rhodes Old Town is a fascinating blend of styles from different periods and cultures. The influence of various conquerors www.rhodesoldtown.gr – including Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Italians – can be seen in everything from grand palaces to humble homes. One moment you might find yourself standing before an ornate fountain built by Arabs; the next, you might be marveling at a Gothic-style church built by Crusaders.

But perhaps most striking are the medieval buildings left behind by the Knights Hospitaller during their rule over Rhodes from 1309 to 1522. These imposing structures – including palaces, churches, hospitals, and even an inn for pilgrims – are a testament to both their military prowess and religious devotion.

As you explore further into Rhodes Old Town’s heartland known as Ippokratous Square (Hippocrates Square), where locals gather for coffee or drinks under centuries-old plane trees surrounded by elegant neoclassical buildings housing boutique shops selling handmade jewelry or traditional Greek products such as olive oil soap bars made locally using recipes passed down generations since antiquity!

Rhodes Old Town truly offers a glimpse into another world – one where past meets present in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a history buff or simply someone who appreciates beauty and culture alike , this enchanting place will captivate your senses like no other!