General

Rhodes is the biggest of the  islands in the Dodecanese and the fourth largest island in Greece. It lies in the south-east corner of the Aegean Sea, just off the coast of Asia Minor. The so-called "Pearl of the Mediterranean" is of great interest both for its natural beauty and for its archaeological treasures, so much so that Rhodes has recently been proclaimed a world cultural heritage monument by UNESCO. At the same time Rhodes is also considered to be the most cosmopolitan resort in the Mediterranean.
The island of Rhodes is marked by striking contrasts in landscape: picturesque beaches (several parts of the island boast very long sandy beaches); exotic landscapes, rocky or fertile soil with olive groves; heavenly lagoons, green peninsulas, and several scattered fishing villages. These are some of the favourite sights of Rhodes that contribute to its unique natural beauty.
Rhodes is also well known for its climate. It enjoys what is perhaps one of the best subtropical Mediterranean climates with over 300 days and more than 3,000 hours of sunshine each year. Its light rainy season is normally confined to the period between November and March.

History

According to Homer in the Iliad, the island of Rhodes took part in the Trojan war. Findings from excavations also prove that it was inhabited during the Neolithic period. However, it was in the 11th century BC that the island started to flourish with the arrival of the Dorians. Later, the Dorians built three of its most important ancient cities: Lindos, Ialyssos and Kameiros, which nowadays represent some of its most famous attractions.
A new era began for the island in 408 BC when these three major cities decided together to build a new city at the northern end of the island, on the site of the present city of Rhodes. This city one of the finest in antiquity, enjoyed great prosperity in the 4th, 3rd and part of the 2nd century BC.
A new period of glory emerged later, when the Knights of the Order of St. John began their rule in 1309. Drawn from eight states, the Order's original purpose was to defend the Holy Land and later to come to the assistance of pilgrims. The medieval city was built under their rule. In more recent years, around 1912, Rhodes was occupied by the Italians, and in 1948, together with other islands of the Dodecanese, it was finally reunited with the rest of Greece. Evidence of Rhodes' glorious past can be seen at every turn.

Contemporary Rhodes - Travel Tips!