Filerimos: A Hill of History and Panoramic Views

Filerimos Hill, located approximately 14 km from Rhodes Town, is a captivating destination steeped in history and natural beauty. The hill was once the site of the ancient city of Ialyssos, one of the three original city-states of Rhodes. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this ancient civilization, including the Temple of Athena Polias, which dates back to the 4th century BC.The hill's name, Filerimos, is derived from a monk who journeyed from Jerusalem in the 13th century, bringing with him an icon of the Virgin Mary painted by the Apostle Luke. This icon was housed in the Church of Our Lady of Filerimos, which later became a basilica. In the 14th century, under the rule of the Knights of St. John, a monastery was constructed around the church, complete with cloisters, cells, and chapels. The monastery, as it stands today, was restored by the Italians in the 20th century and showcases a unique Gothic architectural style, setting it apart from other monasteries in Greece.Visitors can also walk the "Path to Golgotha," created during the Italian occupation (1912-1945), which features shrines depicting the Passion of Jesus. This path leads to a colossal cross at the hill's peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the northern part of Rhodes, including the airport, Kremasti town, Ixia, Trianta, and even Rhodes City. The cross is 16 meters/ 48 feet tall, and visitors can climb it to take in the views. Keep an eye out for the peacocks roaming freely around Filerimos.