Rhodes Ancient Ialyssos
Location: Ialissos Village
Ancient Ialyssos was one of the three earliest city-states on Rhodes Island. It is strategically located about 10 to 15 km from the present town of Rhodes, nicely perched atop the slopes of Mount Filerimos. As a protective measure in the year 480 BC, Ancient Ialyssos formed a confederation with the other two city-states. The three cities combined shifted the capital of Rhodes to where modern Rhodes Town is located.
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One of the most historically significant finds unearthed at the site is the Temple of Athena Polias, dating back to the 3rd century. Apart from the vestiges of the Doric Temple, there is not much that can be found here. In the past, there was a Christian basilica that was built virtually right on top of the Temple. Later, the basilica was replaced by a Byzantine monastery that dates back to the 6th century. The Byzantines were later captured by the Knights of Saint John. The Knights held the monastery to themselves and set up their capital in the place of the present Rhodes Town.
Another noteworthy monument is the Doric Fountain House. This ancient water supply system was comprised of two tunnels that brought water from a spring and deposited it in a reservoir cut into a rock. The facade of the structure was enclosed with six Doric columns. Other archaeological finds, such as jewelry, vases, and small figurines have been displayed in various exhibitions housed in the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, the British Museum, and the Louvre.
Ancient Ialyssos was completely ruined when the marauding Turks attacked. By the 20th century, the island was under the rule of Italians. As a means of attracting tourists, the Italians rebuilt the monastery into a church with four chapels. One was meant for Orthodox Christians, one for Catholics, one for the Knights, and one for keeping relics.
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Valley of the butterflies and Filerimos hill
Book nowfrom € 27.00Category: Day Trips, Island5 hours MapA relaxing tour Of Rhodes visiting the Valley of Butterflies, the top of Filerimos Hill -Our Lady Monastery and the ancient acropolis Ialyssos.
