Our Lady of the Castle (Panayia)
Our Lady of the Castle: A Medieval Marvel
Saint Paul's Gate: A Portal to Rhodes' Medieval Past
Step through history at Saint Paul's Gate in Rhodes Old Town, a medieval marvel built by the Knights Hospitaller and rich with historical significance.
Saint Paul's Gate, an iconic historical landmark in Rhodes Old Town, stands as a testament to the island's rich medieval history. Built in the 15th century by the Knights Hospitaller, it controlled access between the harbors and the fortified city, bearing witness to sieges and conquests. Today, it welcomes visitors to explore the captivating history within the ancient walls.
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A brief summary to Saint Paul's Gate
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Rhodes, 851 00, GR
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Getting There
Walking
From anywhere within Rhodes Old Town, Saint Paul's Gate is easily accessible on foot. Follow the cobblestone streets towards the harbor area, keeping an eye out for signs pointing towards the 'Medieval City Walls' or 'Kolona Harbour'. The gate is located on the outer edge of the Old Town, near the waterfront.
Public Transport
If arriving by bus at the main bus station near Mandraki Harbor, walk south along the waterfront. Saint Paul's Gate will be on your left as you approach the entrance to the Old Town. Local bus fares within Rhodes Town are approximately €1.20.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Rhodes Town. Ask your driver to take you to 'Saint Paul's Gate' or 'Kolona Harbour' in the Old Town. A short taxi ride from most points in Rhodes Town should cost around €5-€7. Be sure to agree on the fare beforehand, as some drivers may not use the meter.
Parking
If driving, be aware that the Old Town is largely a pedestrian zone. Several parking lots are available outside the city walls, within a short walking distance of Saint Paul's Gate. Parking fees typically range from €1 to €3 per hour. Consider parking near Kolona Harbour for convenient access.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photographs.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the surrounding streets are cobblestone and require some walking.
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Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Old Town to fully immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere.
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Take a moment to appreciate the views from the foundations of the now-gone Naillac Tower, just east of the gate.
Discover more about Saint Paul's Gate
Saint Paul's Gate, nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Rhodes Old Town, is a captivating reminder of the island's medieval past. Constructed in the 15th century by the Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Knights of St. John, this formidable gate served as a crucial point of control between the bustling harbors and the fortified city.The gate is named in honor of Saint Paul, who, according to Christian tradition, visited Rhodes in 57 AD during his third missionary journey, marking a significant chapter in the island's religious history. The structure itself showcases the architectural and military ingenuity of the era, featuring a tall central tower surrounded by a polygonal bulwark. Look for the coats-of-arms of Pope Sixtus IV and Grand Master d'Aubusson, dating the tower to 1476-84, along with a marble plaque depicting St. Paul.Over the centuries, Saint Paul's Gate has witnessed countless historical events, enduring sieges and conquests, including the notable siege by the Ottoman Empire in 1522. Though almost completely demolished during World War II, it was meticulously rebuilt in 1951, standing as a symbol of resilience and a portal to the past. Today, visitors can walk through this historic gateway, imagining the knights and soldiers who once defended the city, and soak in the atmosphere of a bygone era.
A brief summary to Saint Paul's Gate
Use Saint Paul's Gate as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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