Colossus of Rhodes, Rhodes Travel Guide

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Explore the legendary site of the Colossus of Rhodes, a marvel of the ancient world and symbol of Rhodian strength.

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Colossus of Rhodes

Once a towering statue of the Greek sun god Helios, the Colossus of Rhodes stood as a symbol of the island's power and unity. Though destroyed by an earthquake in 226 BC, its legacy as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World endures.

A brief summary to Colossus of Rhodes

Pl. Neoriou, Rhodes, 851 00, GR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Colossus of Rhodes.

Visit Mandraki Harbor, where the Colossus may have stood, and see the deer statues that mark the entrance.
Explore the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to immerse yourself in the island's rich history.
Take a boat tour to nearby islands like Symi or Lindos for a day trip.

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Explore Colossus of Rhodes on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Colossus of Rhodes, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Rhodes Town, the likely area where the Colossus stood is within walking distance. Head towards Mandraki Harbor. The harbor is easily identifiable by the two deer statues at its entrance. The area is generally flat and pedestrian-friendly.
Public Transport

Local buses operate frequently within Rhodes Town. Check local bus schedules for routes that stop near Mandraki Harbor. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the harbor and the likely site of the Colossus. A single bus fare within Rhodes Town typically costs around €1.50 - €2.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Rhodes Town. A short taxi ride from most points in the town center to Mandraki Harbor will cost approximately €5-€10, depending on traffic and the exact starting point. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Note that there may be additional charges for luggage or airport/port pickup.

Discover more about Colossus of Rhodes

The Colossus of Rhodes was a gigantic bronze statue of the Greek sun god Helios, erected in the city of Rhodes around 280 BC. It stood approximately 33 meters (108 feet) high, making it the tallest statue of the ancient world. The statue commemorated the Rhodians' successful defense against Demetrius I of Macedon, who besieged the city for a year.The Colossus was constructed by Chares of Lindos, a local sculptor, using bronze and iron. The statue stood for only 56 years before an earthquake caused it to collapse in 226 BC. The ruins remained on the ground for centuries, attracting visitors who marveled at their size. It is said that few people could wrap their arms around the fallen thumb. In 654 AD, Arabian forces raided Rhodes and sold the statue for scrap.Popular belief held that the Colossus straddled the Mandraki harbor entrance, but modern historians and engineers consider this impossible. It was more likely situated on the harbor's eastern promontory or further inland. Today, two deer statues stand at the Mandraki harbor, possibly near the location where the Colossus once stood. The Colossus of Rhodes remains a symbol of the island's rich history and a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the ancient world.