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Our Lady of the Castle: A Medieval Crossroads of Faith

Explore a medieval church in Rhodes, a historical site that has been a cathedral, a church, and a mosque, reflecting the island's diverse past.

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Our Lady of the Castle, or Panagia tou Kastrou, is a historic church in Rhodes' Medieval City. Originally an 11th-century Byzantine Orthodox cathedral, it transformed through various eras, serving as a Catholic church under the Knights Hospitaller and later a mosque during Ottoman rule, showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles and a rich, multicultural history.

A brief summary to Our Lady of the Castle (Panayia)

  • Megalou Alexandrou square, Medieval City, Apellou, Rhodos-Stadt, 851 00, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the serene atmosphere of this historical site.
  • Take your time to explore the Byzantine Museum housed within the church, which features a remarkable collection of icons.
  • Look for the remnants of the Doric temple dedicated to Athena Polias on the church grounds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Our Lady of the Castle is located within the Medieval City of Rhodes, near the Palace of the Grand Master. From most points within the Medieval City, it is easily accessible on foot. Follow signs towards the Palace of the Grand Master; the church is a short walk away. Note that the Medieval City has cobblestone streets, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Public Transport

    The central bus station is located outside the New Market (Nea Agora) in Mandraki. From there, walk into the Medieval City. Follow signs towards the Palace of the Grand Master; Our Lady of the Castle is a short walk from there. Bus fares typically range from €2.50 to €4.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Rhodes. A taxi from the Rhodes Port to the Medieval City costs approximately €5 and takes about 10 minutes. From other locations in Rhodes city, fares will vary depending on the distance, with a base fare of €3.72 plus €1.25 per kilometer. The central taxi station is located in the Mandraki area.

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Discover more about Our Lady of the Castle (Panayia)

Nestled within the walls of Rhodes' Medieval City, Our Lady of the Castle (Panagia tou Kastrou) stands as a testament to the island's layered past and diverse cultural influences. Originally built in the 11th century as a Byzantine Orthodox cathedral, it became the Catholic church of Sancta Maria Castelli Rodi after the Knights Hospitaller captured Rhodes. This conversion marked a significant architectural shift, blending Byzantine elements with a three-aisled Gothic basilica design. The church's history is further marked by the Ottoman conquest in 1522, when it was transformed into a mosque, adding a minaret to its structure. This minaret was later removed during Italian occupation. Today, the church houses the Byzantine Museum, showcasing a collection of icons and post-Byzantine frescoes salvaged from across Rhodes. Visitors can also see remnants of a Doric temple dedicated to Athena Polias on the grounds. Architecturally, Our Lady of the Castle features a blend of Byzantine and Gothic elements, including a cruciform plan and rib vaults. Though little of the original painted decoration remains, a mural of the Virgin Mary with Child and a figure of Saint Lucia can still be seen. The coats of arms of Grand Master Helion de Villeneuve and Pope John XXII, dating back to the 14th century, are also preserved.

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