Churches in Rhodes
Rhodes is strongly influenced by the many great civilizations of the world. Of major interest are the historic castles, imposing buildings and spiritual sites that bear witness to the unique architectural elements from the medieval and Byzantine times. Particularly, the medieval town of Rhodes is a monument itself and visitors can see here many Catholic churches and castles built by the Knights.
The most important Catholic Church is the Roman Catholic church of Saint Francisco (St Francis of Assisi) located in the old town. Its high bell tower is the symbol of Rhodes and from there the view is spectacular. Built by the Byzantines, in the 11th century, the beautiful Lady of the Castle is a fine example of stone masonry work made by the Knights of St John. It lies in the city of Rhodes, in Symis square.
Another foundation of the knights is the Catholic church of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) with remains of beautiful frescoes from the 15th century. Of unique interest is the Catholic church of Saint John, the Collacium located in the medieval city of Rhodes. It owns all the characteristics of Gothic architecture and is a famous site. At the center of Rhodes stands the chapel of Sacred Heart and at the cosmopolitan resort of Trianda lies the chapel of St Anne. Both of them inspire peace and a warm atmosphere.
The most famous Orthodox monastery of Rhodes is Panagia Tsambika located in Archangelos village. Although tiny, the monastery lies in two sites, one is perched on top of a high cliff and the other one stands at one side of the road of the settlement. The church is considered miraculous for the women who struggle to conceive. Within the same village, beautiful churches are found like Dormition of the Virgin (18th century), the church of Agia Irini and Archangel Micheal with the most fascinating bell tower on the island.
Monastery of Filerimos
This monastery was constructed on the hill of Filerimos, close to the site of Ancient Ialyssos. It was built by the Knights of Saint John in Medieval times but was reconstructed in the early 20th century.
Panagia tou Bourgou
Built sometime during the rule of the Grand Master de Villeneuve (1319-1346), the construction was later endowed with six chapels and around seven vaulted tombs.
Panagia tou Kastrou
Standing near the eastern end of the Street of the Knights, Panagia tou Kastrou is a Byzantine church remodeled as a Gothic three-aisled basilica in the 14th century. It now houses a permanent exposition of medieval icons and sculptures.
Holy Trinity
The church of the Holy Trinity is located on the Street of the Knights. It dates from the 14th century and was constructed by the English division (Langue) of the Knights of Saint John.
Church of Annunciation
The church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary has a different style from the usual churches in Greece. It presents gothic architecture and the frescoes inside were painted by Fotis Kontoglou, a renowned Greek painter.
Panagia Tsambika
The monastery of Panagia Tsambika is among the most famous on the island. It stands on a hill above Tsambika beach and its icon is considered miraculous.
Church of Panagia Katholiki in Kremasti
The Church of Panagia Katholiki in Kremasti is one of the largest in Rhodes, welcoming countless visitors every year who want to experience its beautiful architecture and pay respect to the miraculous Icon of the Virgin Mary.
Monastery of Panagia Ipseni
The Monastery of Panagia Ipseni, currently occupied by 15 nuns, sees visitors come to admire its 200-year-old architecture and pray to the pride of the Monastery, the icon of Panagia Ipseni.
Monastery of Panagia Skiadeni
Residing on a mountaintop, the Monastery of Panagia Skiadeni is known for the silver icon of the Virgin Mary housed inside its walls and the many legends surrounding it, with many visitors coming yearly to witness the miraculous icon for themselves.
Thari Monastery
Surrounded by a lush pine forest, Thari Monastery is one of the most popular religious landmarks in all of Rhodes, renowned for its magnificent frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
Church of Panagia Katholiki in Afandou
The quaint Church of Panagia Katholiki in Afandou holds great historical and religious significance, with many visitors coming to see its colorful frescoes and experience its intimate atmosphere.
Kamiri Monastery
Kamiri Monastery stands atop a fairly secluded hill, boasting architecture emblematic of its 12th-century origins, vibrant frescoes and a quiet atmosphere.
Our Lady of Victory
Located near Elli Beach and the Casino of Rhodes, Our Lady of Victory is a neo-Gothic Catholic church with an elegant facade that reflects its knightly heritage. It is still in operation and is open to the public.
Church of the Dormition of Theotokos
The Church of the Dormition of Theotokos holds special religious significance, featuring vibrant frescoes dating back to various historical periods and an impressive display of religious relics.
Cave of the Archangel Michael Panormitis
Located at the foot of Monte Smith Hill, this is an atmospheric chapel fashioned inside a small natural cave. The surrounding area also regales visitors with stunning sea and sunset views.
Church of Agios Nikolaos Fountoukli
The church of Agios Nikolaos Fountoukli is a beautifully preserved building, emblematic of Byzantine design and featuring some striking frescoes in its interior.
Catholic Churches
Standing near the Athanasius Gate, the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi is the official Latin church of Rhodes. It was constructed between 1936 and 1939 by the Italians and hosts an annual international organ festival.
Church of Agia Triada
Agia Triada is a medieval cross-in-square church that still dominates Nafsikas Square within the confines of the Old Town.