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Filerimos Monastery: A Blend of History and Nature

Explore a historic monastery with stunning views, ancient ruins, and free-roaming peacocks on Filerimos Hill in Rhodes, Greece.

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Perched atop Filerimos Hill, the Filerimos Monastery is a captivating historical site near Ialyssos, Rhodes. It showcases a unique blend of Byzantine, Hellenistic, and Medieval architecture, surrounded by a tranquil pine forest. Explore the remains of ancient Ialyssos, a 15th-century monastery, and enjoy panoramic views, all while encountering the resident peacocks.

A brief summary to Filerimos Monastery

  • Φερενίκης 14, Ialysos, 851 01, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful exploration of the monastery and its surroundings.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is walking involved, especially if you plan to explore the Road to Calvary and climb the cross.
  • Keep an eye out for the peacocks roaming freely around the monastery grounds; they are a highlight of the visit.
  • Bring water, especially during the hot summer months, as there is limited shade in some areas.
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Getting There

  • Bus and Taxi

    From Ialyssos center, take a local bus towards Filerimos. Buses are frequent, especially during peak season. Get off at the Filerimos bus stop, from there, take a short taxi ride to the entrance of the Filerimos Monastery. The bus ticket from Ialyssos to Filerimos is approximately €2, and the taxi ride is around €6-€8.

  • Taxi

    From Rhodes Town, a taxi is a direct way to reach Filerimos Monastery. Taxis are readily available in Rhodes Town. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The average taxi fare is around €12-€15.

  • Car

    If driving, follow the signs towards Filerimos from Ialyssos or Rhodes Town. The road is well-maintained, but can be winding as you ascend the hill. There is a parking lot near the monastery entrance. Parking is free, but can be limited during peak hours. From the parking lot, it's a short walk to the entrance of the archaeological site.

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Discover more about Filerimos Monastery

Filerimos Monastery, situated on Filerimos Hill in Ialyssos, Rhodes, is a historical landmark offering a rich tapestry of history and stunning natural beauty. The hill, once the acropolis of ancient Ialyssos, stands 267 meters high and provides panoramic views of the northern part of Rhodes island. The site's history spans several eras. Originally, it was the location of the ancient city of Ialyssos, one of the three great cities of ancient Rhodes. A temple dedicated to Athena Polias once stood here, and its remains can still be seen. In early Christian times, the temple was converted into a basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Knights of Saint John, who conquered the island in the 14th and 15th centuries, built the monastery. They dedicated it to the Virgin Mary and housed the miracle-working icon of the Virgin of Filerimos. The monastery was constructed with stone in a Gothic style, which is different from other monasteries in Greece. The monastery was destroyed during the Turkish occupation, but the Italians rebuilt it in the 1920s. Today, visitors can explore the restored monastery, admire its unique architecture, and visit the small chapel. The walls of the monastery are decorated with mosaic depictions of saints. A key attraction is the Road to Calvary, a stone-paved path lined with cypress trees and shrines depicting the Passion of Christ, leading to a large cross. Visitors can climb the cross and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding villages and the Aegean Sea. The monastery grounds are also home to a multitude of peacocks, adding a unique touch to the experience.

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