Mt Filerimos and Medieval Rhodes Town
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Port
Rhodes, Greece
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$90
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
First-time visitors to Rhodes are sure to enjoy this overview of essential sights. You'll drive along the west coast of the island before taking a winding road inland to the Plateau of Filerimos, nearly 1,000 feet above sea level. Here stands the Church of Our Lady, built upon the foundations of the ancient temple of Athena and early Christian catacombs. The church was restored by the Knights of St John and the barrel-vaulted Chapel of St George has some worthy 15th-century frescoes.
Back in Rhodes, your walking tour of the old, walled, medieval Rhodes Toourbegins. Lining its stone-paved lanes are grand medieval structures, each recalling the Knights of St John and their Turkish conquerors. Your guide recounts the town's fascinating past as you walk along the Knights Road, one of the town's oldest and most magnificent thoroughfares. Built along the same route as an ancient street dating back to 408 BC, the road leads to the Palace of the Grand Masters, a fortress deliberately built to dominate the town and the harbors. Construction began on the palace at the beginning of the 14th century and, although it was destroyed in 1856, it was rebuilt in 1939. The floors are covered with ancient mosaics from the island of Kos while an impressive marble staircase leads to the upper floor. From this level there are panoramic views over the whole of the city of Rhodes.
To add to the vitality of the Old Town, there are many inviting shops, adding a modern touch to the medieval picture.
Guests who wish to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so but must make their own way back to the ship.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered. Shorts and short skirts are not allowed. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.