A Fortress of the Knights
The Palace of the Grand Master was built in the 14th century by the Knights of Saint John, who ruled Rhodes for over two centuries and transformed it into a Christian stronghold in the eastern Mediterranean. The fortress served as the headquarters and residence of the Grand Master of the Order, functioning simultaneously as a command center, a last line of defense, and a symbol of Crusader power. Its imposing crenellated towers and massive walls were designed to withstand sieges from the Ottoman Empire, which eventually captured the island in 1522. Today the palace stands as a remarkably preserved monument to the medieval era, dominating the skyline of Rhodes Old Town.
Architecture and Interior
The palace is a masterpiece of Gothic military architecture, featuring two massive circular towers flanking the main gate, thick defensive walls, and a grand interior courtyard lined with arched galleries. Inside, visitors discover over 150 rooms, many restored with elaborate mosaic floors brought from the nearby island of Kos during the Italian occupation of the early 20th century. The grand halls feature impressive collections of medieval furniture, tapestries, and sculptures that evoke the splendor of the Knights' era. The blend of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance elements throughout the interior reflects the layered history of the building and the many cultures that have shaped Rhodes.
Rhodes Old Town
The palace sits at the highest point of Rhodes Old Town, itself a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The Street of the Knights, a remarkably intact cobblestone avenue lined with the original Inns of the various Tongues of the Order, leads directly from the palace down through the heart of the medieval quarter. Beyond the Knights' Quarter, the Old Town opens into a vibrant maze of Ottoman-era mosques, Byzantine churches, lively squares, and bustling bazaars that give it a uniquely multicultural atmosphere. Walking through the massive city walls, which stretch for four kilometers and feature multiple gates and towers, feels like stepping back into a living medieval city.
Visiting Tips
Plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the palace and its exhibitions, which include fascinating displays on ancient and medieval Rhodes. Combining a palace visit with a walk along the Street of the Knights and through the wider Old Town makes for a full and rewarding day. The palace is busiest in the late morning when cruise ship passengers arrive, so visiting first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon offers a more peaceful experience. The rooftop and upper floors provide panoramic views over the Old Town, the harbor, and the Turkish coast across the strait.
