Saint Paul's Gate: A Portal to Rhodes' Medieval Past

Saint Paul's Gate, or Pyli Agiou Pavlou, is a historical landmark in Rhodes, Greece, offering a captivating glimpse into the island's medieval past. Constructed in the second half of the 15th century by the Knights Hospitaller, it served as a crucial access point to the fortified city and Kolona harbor. The gate is named in honor of Saint Paul, believed to have visited Rhodes in 57 AD during his third missionary journey, marking an important chapter in the island's religious history. The gate features impressive stonework and architectural details, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. The bastion at the gate demonstrates expert construction techniques, with twelve cannon holes strategically positioned to cover a broad range between the two harbors and the mole of Saint Nicholas. Inside the semi-cylindrical tower on the inner wall, a marble sculpture displays the coat of arms of the House of Grand Master d'Aubusson (1476-1503), along with those of the Hospitallers Order and Pope Sixtus IV. Almost completely demolished during World War II, Saint Paul's Gate was meticulously rebuilt in 1951, standing as a symbol of resilience and bearing witness to the civilizations that have shaped Rhodes. Today, visitors can explore the gate, walk along the ancient walls, and imagine the bustling activity of traders, visitors, and locals who once passed through this vital entry point. The foundations of the now-gone Naillac Tower, just east of the gate, offer unparalleled views of Mandráki harbor, especially at dawn and dusk.