Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes stands as a monumental example of medieval architecture in the heart of Rhodes’ Old Town. Located on Ippoton Street, this 14th-century fortress served as the administrative center for the Order of the Knights of Saint John and is now a protected UNESCO World Heritage site. The structure offers visitors a tangible connection to the island’s complex history, spanning from ancient times through the Crusader period and into the Ottoman era.

Inside, the palace functions as a museum with two distinct permanent exhibitions. The ground floor displays cover the history of Rhodes from its founding in 408 BC to the Ottoman conquest in 1522, providing essential context for the region’s past. The first floor features a collection of mosaic floors and medieval furniture that were restored during the Italian occupation in the 1930s, showcasing the architectural layers accumulated over centuries.

Visitors typically spend between 90 minutes and two hours exploring the site. The palace is accessible to all, featuring ramps, lifts, and Braille signage to accommodate guests with disabilities. Admission costs €20, and tickets can be purchased online to skip the queue. During the summer months, from April to October, the palace is open from 08:00 to 20:00, while winter hours run from 08:30 to 15:30. Note that certain exhibitions are closed during the winter season, and the site is generally closed on Tuesdays. This historic landmark provides a comprehensive look at the cultural and political shifts that have shaped the island.