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Hippocrates Square: Rhodes Old Town's Lively Heart

Experience the vibrant heart of Rhodes Old Town: history, architecture, and lively atmosphere converge in Hippocrates Square.

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Hippocrates Square is the central hub of Rhodes Old Town, a vibrant meeting place steeped in history. Admire the medieval architecture, the iconic Syntrivan Fountain, and soak in the lively atmosphere filled with cafes, shops, and historical echoes.

A brief summary to Hippocrates Square

  • Ippokratous, Rhodes, 851 00, GR

Local tips

  • Be prepared for a bustling atmosphere, especially in the evenings, as the square resembles an Eastern marketplace.
  • Dining in Hippocrates Square can be more expensive than in other parts of Rhodes, so budget-conscious travelers should be aware.
  • Visit the Syntrivan Fountain, an iconic spot and a must-see backdrop for photos.
  • Explore the nearby Socrates Street for a taste of local shopping and culture.
  • Take advantage of the free mini bus from the Acandia parking lot to avoid parking stress in the city center.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Hippocrates Square is centrally located within Rhodes Old Town, making walking the most convenient way to reach it from anywhere within the Old Town. From the Palace of the Grand Master, head down Ippoton Street, then turn left onto Socratous Street; the square will be on your right. From Mandraki Harbour, enter the Old Town and follow the signs for the city center; you'll find the square a few blocks in.

  • Public Transport

    The main bus terminal is located at Mandraki Harbour, a short walk from the Old Town. From the bus terminal, enter the Old Town and follow signs to Hippocrates Square. Several bus routes serve Mandraki, including those from the airport and other major towns on the island. A one-way ticket on urban routes costs approximately €1.20.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Rhodes. Several taxi stands are near the Old Town, including one at Mandraki Harbour. A short taxi ride from the New Town or the harbor to Hippocrates Square will typically cost between €5 and €10, but agree on the fare before getting in the taxi. Keep in mind that there may be additional charges for luggage or airport pickup.

  • Parking

    Parking within the Old Town is restricted. Several parking lots are available outside the walls, including near Mandraki Harbour and in the Acandia area. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €1.50 per hour. A free mini-bus service operates from Acandia Parking to various points in Rhodes Town, including near the Old Town entrance. This is a convenient option to avoid parking stress within the city center.

  • Ferry

    If arriving by ferry from another island, you'll dock at Rhodes Harbour, a short walk from the Old Town. From the harbor, enter the Old Town and follow the signs to Hippocrates Square. Ferries connect Rhodes to several islands, including Symi, Kos, Patmos, and Halki. Ticket prices vary depending on the destination and ferry operator; for example, a ferry to Symi starts at around €7, while a ferry to Patmos starts at around €23.

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Discover more about Hippocrates Square

Hippocrates Square, located in the heart of Rhodes Old Town, is more than just a landmark; it's a gateway to the island's rich and complex history. Throughout the ages, this square has served as a central hub for commerce, politics, and social gatherings. Originally known as Castellania during the era of the Knights Hospitaller, it later became recognized as Mosque Square under Ottoman rule. In 1924, a devastating fire obliterated the shops around the square, leading to a comprehensive reconstruction effort by the Italian authorities. During the Italian occupation the Square was called “Piazza del Fuoco”. Architect Armando Bernabiti revised the design to reflect the square's connection to the medieval, Ottoman, and Italian periods. At its heart, he placed a fountain combining Ottoman and Byzantine design elements. Today, Hippocrates Square stands as the largest square within Rhodes Old Town, where the town's labyrinthine alleyways converge. The square is framed by impressive medieval architecture. At the center of Hippocrates Square stands the striking Syntrivan Fountain, crafted from white stone with touches of blue ceramic. Shaped like a tower with window details, it is topped by an owl figure. Surrounding the square are remnants of the bygone era, from the imposing Castle of the Knights that looms nearby to the intricate mosaics that adorn the area. The Castellania Library, built in 1507 and restored by the Italians between 1925 and 1935, now functions as the public library and town archives. This spot also marks the beginning of Socrates Street, one of the island's most frequented thoroughfares.

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