Rhodes Mandraki

General information

Located close to the modern part of Rhodes Town, just outside the medieval town walls, the captivating Mandraki is the island’s old port, where, according to the legend, the spectacular Colossus of Rhodes used to stand in ancient times. Today, it is the place where pleasure crafts and excursion boats come to berth, blissfully untouched by the hustle and bustle of big ferries.

Its timeless allure rests, to a large extent, on the mosaic of monuments that adorn the long seaside promenade. First and foremost among them are the two emblematic statues that flank the entrance to the harbor, standing opposite one another. Known as Elafos and Elafina in Greek, these bronze sculptures date from the Venetian times and represent a stag and a doe — a reference to the unique dama-dama deer species that have lived on the island for centuries.

On one side of the harbor, visitors will behold the imposing Fortress of Agios Nikolaos, a 15th-century stand-alone fort that used to play a key role in the city’s defense during the rule of the Knights of Saint John. Along the jetty leading to the fort, three restored traditional windmills still stand proudly, defying the wear of time and adding a unique charm to the pier. At nighttime, especially, the fort and the picturesque lighthouse that was subsequently added to it are beautifully lighted, making Mandraki one of the best spots for romantic walks and fantastic photos.

Along the seaside promenade, a series of magnificent buildings create a truly magical setting. The New Market, in particular, stands out for its elegant archways, its graceful dome and the Arabic elements in its design, which harmoniously blend with other architectural styles. Set against the backdrop of the Palace of the Grand Master, it encloses a series of vibrant shops, cafes and restaurants, where you can taste fresh fish, succulent mezes and meat dishes, as well as mouthwatering sweets.

Moving on, you will come across the seaside Eleftherias Square, which is lined with lofty structures like the historic Aktaion cafe, the post office, and the courthouse. At the far end of Mandraki, the Dioikitirion, a replica of the Venetian Doge’s Palace dominates the equally impressive Evaggelismos Square. Housing the headquarters of the South Aegean Region, it is a monumental building with an elaborate facade, whose eastern side stands out for its red and orange patterns. With its long arcades, Gothic windows and jutting roof ornaments, it is a true marvel of eclecticism and ranks among the most significant construction projects carried out during the years of Italian rule.

Another landmark that greets visitors in Evaggelismos Square is the Gothic church of the Annunciation of the Virgin, a true architectural gem constructed by Italian architects in 1925. Designed after the medieval Church of Saint John, which used to stand in the Old Town, it features an impressive bell tower and arched doors and windows, while beautiful frescoes crafted by the renowned Greek painter Fotis Kontoglou adorn the inside. An ornately carved stone fountain also adds a unique touch to the church courtyard. Within close distance, there are also numerous Ottoman buildings, as well as an old mosque.