Rhodes Acropolis of Rhodes

Location: Town

The Acropolis of Rhodes lies atop the slopes of Monte Smith, 1 km west of the Old Town. Unlike most other ancient acropoleis, this one wasn't fortified. The Acropolis of Rhodes was replete with sanctuaries, huge temple premises, and public buildings. The buildings were strategically built on precipitous terraces ably supported by impregnable walls. The Acropolis of Rhodes is one of the finest specimens of the Hellenic style of architecture that blended harmoniously with the surrounding environment.

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The renowned Italian Archaeological School was entrusted with excavating the Acropolis from 1912 to 1945. But, from 1946, the Greek Archaeological Service carried out excavations that provided a fascinating insight into the history and topography of the Acropolis.

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More about the Acropolis of Rhodes

Some of the significant monuments discovered by archaeologists in the core archaeological zone are mentioned below in brief:

Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus: The Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus are located at the northern extreme of the Acropolis. They are distinctly Doric in terms of architecture and are conspicuous by their porticos on all sides. There are four massive column drums as well. It is here that the Rhodians preserved their treaties with other states.

Nymphaia: The Nymphaia is located to the east and is comprised of four cavernous constructions that have been innovatively cut into the rock and feature entrance steps, passages and a large aperture in the innermost part of the roof. The Nymphaia is replete with water cisterns and luxuriant foliage. In the past, the Nymphaia was meant for worship and recreation.

Odeon: The Odeon is located northwest of the Stadium. It could accommodate 800 spectators and archaeologists believe that the Odeon was used for musical performances or for conducting classes in rhetoric.

Temple of Pythian Apollo: The Temple of Pythian Apollo stands majestically to the southern part of the hill. This temple is much smaller in size when compared to other temples that have been found on the site. During the 1960s and 1970s, the west foundation of the temple underwent reconstruction work. Part of the northeastern side has also been restored with four columns.

Stoa Building: The Stoa Building had an impressive facade that was visible from the lower town as well as the harbor.

Artemision: The Artemision is located on the northeastern side of the site and was once the place of worship of the Artemis cult.

Stadium: The Stadium is located on the southeastern part of the hill and was excavated by the Italians during their rule of the island of Rhodes. It used to serve as the stage for many athletic competitions as part of the Haleion Games. The stadium was all of 600 feet in length. Presently, the only original components are the Sphendone, Proedries and a few rows of seats in the auditorium. Also preserved is the starting apparatus used in athletic events.

Gymnasium: The Gymnasium is ideally located to the east of the stadium. Excavators have been able to unearth a part of the western and northeastern sides of the Gymnasium. The Gymnasium was a massive square-shaped edifice where many significant artworks have been found through the years.

Library: At one time, the Library was well-stocked with priceless works of Rhetoric. It was located in proximity to the Odeon and the Gymnasium.