Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, dating back to the 14th century, was initially a fortress for the Knights Hospitaller. It later became the administrative hub and residence for the Grand Master. Despite an earthquake in 1481 and various battles, including the Ottoman Turks’ invasion in 1522, the palace has endured. A significant restoration by the Italians in the 20th century has preserved its legacy as a symbol of resilience and cultural revival.

How to Get There

Situated at the top of Ippoton Street in the medieval city, the palace is accessible via the D’Amboise gate from the west or through the Arnaldo or Freedom gates. Local buses frequently serve Rhodes and its surrounding areas, making it easy to reach the Medieval City. For those driving, parking is available outside the city walls, allowing visitors to explore the charming streets leading to the palace on foot.

List of Attractions

1. Monumental Entrance: The grand entrance sets the tone for a historical journey.
2. Inner Courtyard: A spacious courtyard surrounded by galleries, showcasing the palace’s grandeur.
3. Chapel: A sacred space reflecting the spiritual side of the Knights Hospitaller.
4. Tropaion Room: Adorned with impressive mosaics, highlighting the artistic skills of the era.
5. Laocoön Room: Features intricate architectural details, named after the famous sculpture.
6. Medusa Room: Home to stunning mosaics, including the renowned Medusa mosaic.
7. Tiger Room: Showcases a unique tiger mosaic, adding to the palace’s artistic richness.
8. Ribbed Vault Room: Displays the advanced engineering skills of medieval architects.
9. Colonnades Room: Beautiful colonnades enhance the palace’s architectural grandeur.
10. Thyrsus Room: Named after the thyrsus, reflecting Rhodes’ cultural diversity.
11. Nymph and Seahorse Room: Features beautiful mosaics of nymphs and seahorses.
12. Dolphins Room: Filled with dolphin mosaics, adding to the palace’s charm.
13. Gladiator Corridor: Offers insights into the daily lives of the knights.
14. Malta Room: Reflects historical ties between Rhodes and Malta.
15. Nine Muses Room: Dedicated to the nine muses of Greek mythology, showcasing cultural significance.
16. Stall Room: Provides a glimpse into the administrative aspects of the Knights Hospitaller.

Ticket Information

The palace is open daily from 08:00 to 20:00. Tickets, which can be purchased at the entrance, provide access to the palace and its attractions. A self-guided audio tour is available through the Clio Muse Tours app, offering 79 stories and 18 stops throughout the palace.

Tips for Visiting

1. Download the Audio Tour App: Explore the palace at your own pace with fascinating stories about the Knights Hospitaller.
2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Be prepared to walk through narrow, winding streets in the medieval city.
3. Bring Sun Protection: The sunny location calls for sunhats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
4. Respect the Site: As a historical site, visitors should avoid touching artifacts and refrain from taking pictures in restricted areas.
5. Explore the Surrounding Area: The medieval city offers a rich cultural experience with its narrow streets, mosques, squares, and chapels.