There are many reasons why Rhodes is one of the most popular resorts in the Mediterranean: the warm hospitality of the islanders, the culture and customs of village folk, the natural surroundings (crystal clear seas, beautiful countryside and beaches) and the bright sun are just some of the ways that “the island of the sun” makes her visitors fall in love.
When it emerged, Helios, the sun god, was so enchanted by its unique beauty that he asked Zeus to give it to him. Thus, mythology became reality as the island is blessed with 300 days of sunshine a year. Rhodes, situated in the south-eastern Aegean Sea, is the capital of the Dodecanese prefecture and has a population of approximately 115,000. It is the 9th largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and 4th largest Greek island (after Crete, Evia and Lesvos).
Rhodes has been famous since antiquity as the site of Colossus of Rhodes, one of the ancient Seven Wonders of the World, which was destroyed by an earthquake 2000 years ago.
The city-state was founded around 10th century BC. It was admired for its wealth, beauty and strategic position in the Mediterranean Sea. Rising above the town is the acropolis of Lindos which in classical times was dominated by the massive temple of Athena Lindia, dating back to around 300 BC. This natural citadel was fortified successively by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Knights of St John and Ottomans.
Lindos is situated on the south-eastern coast of Rhodes and provides an excellent base to explore the many delights of the "island of sun". Lindos boasts a main beach, the nearby smaller Pallas beach and on the other side of the village, St. Paul’s Bay, traditionally the place where St. Paul first set foot on the island and brought Christianity to Europe. Wander through the narrow cobbled lanes between white-washed houses, historic mansions (known as Captain’s Houses), Byzantine churches to reach the rocky acropolis or hire a Lindos ‘taxi’ (a donkey!) for a more leisurely ascent. Be brave and leave the main streets and explore the pedestrianised backstreets! Amongst the villas you will find rooftop taverns with fresh fish and souvlaki accompanied by a cold local wine, open air cafes and local shops.
