Rising up from the highest point of Rhodes City are the fascinating ruins of the Acropolis of Rhodes. They sit on top of Ayios Stefanos Hill and date back to the 3rd century B.C. Discover temples and arenas while you learn about the ancient Greek civilizations.
Visit the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus, one of the most important buildings on the acropolis. This was where texts of treaties with other states were kept. Among the ruins you will see here are column drums and parts of an architrave. Go over to the Temple of Apollo to see its four preserved columns perched on a large terrace. Venture into the caverns of the Nymphaia at the northern edge of the acropolis. The subterranean constructions were cut into the rock and used to contain statues of female water deities known as nymphs.
Walk down the hill on the east side of the acropolis to see the Stadium where athletic events took place during the Hellenistic period. Sit on the marble steps of the Odeion, an amphitheatre where musical events and poetry recitals would’ve been performed before hundreds of spectators. The acropolis also has parts of the Gymnasium. This was a large building that contained works of art, some of which have been found by archeologists.
Stop by the remains of the Stoa Building, a once monumental structure that may have been used as a marketplace. In ancient times a stoa was a long open building with a roof supported by parallel rows of columns.
The Acropolis of Rhodes is situated 1 mile (1.6 kilometres) west of Rhodes City. Buses stop at the ruins and there is free parking on the road next to the ancient site. Alternatively, walk from the island’s capital city.
The acropolis is open daily and admission is free. To avoid large crowds and the sweltering heat, visit early in the morning or just before sunset. There are no shops at the site so it is advisable to bring water with you.
