Street of the Knights

The Street of the Knights, or Odos Ippoton, is a historic 600-meter thoroughfare located in the heart of Rhodes’ Medieval City. Built in the 14th century by the Knights Hospitaller, this street served as the ceremonial and administrative center of their rule, connecting the Palace of the Grand Master to the port. The street’s straight layout was designed for military defense, reflecting the dual military and medical role of the Knights of St. John.

Visitors walking along the street encounter remarkably preserved Gothic architecture, characterized by towering stone buildings with intricate carvings and ornate facades. The structures, primarily dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, feature wide doorways suitable for horse-drawn carriages and intricate stonework that highlights the craftsmanship of the era. The street runs from the Hospital of the Knights to the Palace of the Grand Master, offering a vivid glimpse into Middle Ages culture.

While the street itself is free to access, it is part of the larger fortified Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The current appearance of the buildings reflects 20th-century restorations that removed later Ottoman additions to restore a uniform 15th-century aesthetic. The street is lined with auberges (inns) that once housed knights from various European regions. Walking through the street provides a tangible connection to the medieval history of the island, offering a serene and historic atmosphere distinct from the more modern parts of Rhodes.