Saint Athanasios Gate: A Portal to Rhodes' Medieval Past

Saint Athanasios Gate, a captivating entrance nestled within the imposing medieval walls of Rhodes, stands as a testament to the island's storied past. Constructed in the mid-15th century, the gate is also known as Saint Francis Gate, named for the nearby Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, built by the Italians in the early 20th century.Overlooking the gate is the round Tower of Saint Mary, erected in 1441 during the rule of Grand Master Jean de Lastic. The gate itself was built between 1441 and 1442. According to Turkish tradition, the troops of Suleiman the Magnificent, the Ottoman conqueror, entered Rhodes through this gate in 1522. Legend says that the Sultan, wishing to prevent any other conqueror from following in his footsteps, then ordered the gate to be closed. It remained closed until 1922, when the Italians reopened it to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Ottoman conquest.Visitors passing through Saint Athanasios Gate today step into the enchanting Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The gate's well-preserved stonework and intricate details evoke a sense of traveling back in time. The surrounding area is equally captivating, with picturesque streets, inviting cafes, and local shops that contribute to the authentic medieval atmosphere.