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The Medieval City of Rhodes
Rhodes is a beautiful medieval island off the coast of Greece that has an interesting and unique history. This island was once the site of a magnificent medieval city, which was very secure and well protected with impressive architecture. For travelers looking to explore the idyllic island of Rhodes in Greece today, there is no better way to do so than by taking a ferry.
Also, with routes connecting the island with mainland Greece and numerous other Greek islands like Chalki, Let’s Ferry offers a convenient and affordable way to see all that this stunning destination has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Rhodes has something for everyone.
The medieval city of Rhodes remains a fascinating tourist attraction today thanks to this city’s rich history filled with dramatic stories and intriguing characters, which urges visitors to explore. If you’re thinking about taking a trip to Greece, you should consider heading over to the city of Rhodes, and this article will explain why.
The history of Rhodes and how it became a medieval city
The medieval city of Rhodes was built by knights in 408 BC. This city is at a crossroads between the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, which has contributed to the many cultures, identities, languages, and architecture throughout this island’s long history. Rhodes saw prosperity for three centuries during its Golden Age due to skilled shipbuilders, sea trade, and their open-minded politicians.
The Colossus of Rhodes, which is regarded as one of the original seven wonders of the world, was built between 304 and 293 BC by Chares of Lindos, and this took a total of 12 years. During Roman times, Rhodes surrendered its independence and would later become the capital of the Roman Province; however, it remained a shipping and commercial center. Rhodes would also suffer many attacks over time and would be occupied by many different forces, including the Persians, Turks, and Arabs. Rhodes became a medieval city when the Order of St. John of Jerusalem occupied Rhodes and started transforming the city into a medieval stronghold to withstand sieges.
What was life like in the city during the middle Ages?
The Middle Ages saw a lot of conflict and violence in Rhodes due to the political climate. Life was considered harsh during this time, with little comfort. Women were considered beneath men across all classes, from peasant to noble, and children had a 50% survival rate beyond the age of 1 year old. Children also had to start contributing to family life around the age of 12 years old. This age was known for calamities and difficulties ranging from war to plague and even famine, which had a significant impact on the population. The church also had a strong influence during this time.
The different types of architecture found in Rhodes
There is a variety of unique architecture you will find in Rhodes, including:
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Rural or folk houses with a single room, rooted in the Hospitallers period
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The Turkish house, which was established after the Ottomans conquered the island
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Towers
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Settlements of Rhode, which connect the ancient cities of Lindos, Lalyssos, and Kamiros
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Italian Architecture in Rhodes
You will also see historical mosques and churches, such as the Church of St. Anastasia the Roman.
The culture and food of the city
The food of the Medieval City of Rhodes was and still is Mediterranean Greek-style food. Fish was more popular than any other type of meat during that period, and a famous dish was fish soup, which the locals loved to consume. Agriculture and livestock were also more popular during medieval times, and the most traditional dishes were mainly based on fresh vegetables, local herbs and spices, and olive oil. Tapas were also more popular than single large dishes, and people generally filled up by nibbling on different smaller dishes such as snails in olive oil, stuffed vine or cabbage, and roasted eggplant, to name a few. Lamb was also very popular, as were rabbits, goats, beef, and lovers.
How Rhodes changed over time and what happened to it
Today, the medieval city of Rhodes is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. There is also a notable sports culture in Rhodes, which includes football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, water polo, and sailing, to name a few. The economy is now mainly tourist-oriented, with small industries that are in the business of processing raw materials for local retailers. Also, do not forget vineyards, agricultural goods production, and stockbreeding, which also contribute to the economy. Christianity, Islam, and Judaism are still the main religions practiced in Rhodes, and today, the medieval Old Town of the City of Rhodes has been named a world heritage site.
