Museums

  1. The Palace of the Grand Master

Walking up the street of the Knights, at the top and to the right is the Grand Master’s Palace. Opposite the palace amongst the ruins from different historical periods, one can determine the ruins of the Catholic Church of St. John.

The Grand Masters Palace was built below the Acropolis of Ancient Rhodes where originally the Temple of the Sun God stood. In the same place, in the 7th century, there was also a Byzantine Palace, and then in the 14th century the Knights of St John built the palace as the residence of the Grand Master as an administrative center. It was destroyed in 1856 by a large explosion of gunpowder that was hidden in the basement of the of St John Church.

The Grand Masters Palace was then rebuilt according to the original drawings by the Italians in 1940. In 1988 it hosted the summit of the EEC. It occasionally holds exhibitions and major cultural events.

Address: Street of the Knights, Medieval City, Rhodes 85131, Greece
Telephone: +302241365270
Etickets: https://etickets.tap.gr/webengines/tap_b2c/english/tap.exe?PM=P1

  1. The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes

The Hospital of the Knights was built in 1440 and completed by the Grand Master d’ Aubusson (1476 – 1503).

This monumental and bioclimaticaly designed building now houses the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, which exhibits archaeological finding from different parts of Rhodes and the surrounding islands.

Address: Street of the Knights, Medieval City, Rhodes 85131, Greece
Telephone: +302241365257

  1. Church of the Panagia Tou Kastrou

The original core of the building was probably built in the 11th century AD. After Rhodes was taken by the Knights of St. John and between the year 1319 and 1334 the Byzantine church was converted into a Gothic basilica. During the period of Othoman rule, this chrch was turned into a Muslim mosque (Enterum Cami).

Address: Apellou st, Medieval City, Rhodes 851 00, Greece
Telephone: +302241365256

  1. The Decorative Arts Collection

The Decorative Arts Collection includes objects from the Ethnographic Collection of the Italians, the Folklore Archives of the Dodecanese with donations, seizure and excavations of the Archaeological Service Dodecanese, reflecting the elegance of the inhabitants of the island in modern times. The collection includes costumes, embroidery, woodwork, metalwork and pottery objects. Among them are the specimens of pottery of Nice (16th – 19th centuries), Armenian dishes from the Kutahya houses, jugs with decorations of monstrous figures, local pottery samples from the villages of Rhodes, plus 19th and 20th century European Origin ceramics, woodcuts and other objects. An important place held among the exhibitions, are the female costumes from Symi, Astypalaia, Karpathos, Nisyros, Tilos, Halki and Embona in Rhodes.

Address: Argyrokastrou Square – Medieval City, Rhodes 85131, Greece
Telephone: +30 22413 65246

  1. The Museum of Modern Greek Art

Includes collections of paintings and engravings representing Greek art from the 20th century’s distinguished artists, numerous sculptures, drawings and documents. These collections describe the history of Greece over the last hundred years.

It includes organized exhibitions of 20th century Greek art from nationwide and international talent, innovative artistic inventions in nature, reports on prominent Greek and foreign artists, historical documents/reports and other visual arts of Dodecanesian origin. (http://mgamuseum.gr).

Housed in four buildings:

Nestoridion Melathron
Address: G. Haritou Square, Hundred Palms, Rhodes 85131, Greece
Phone: +302241043780

Nestoridion Melathron- New Building
Address: Nestoridou Street (ex Ko Street), Rhodes 85131, Greece
Phone: +302241025780

Museum of Modern Greek Art (Art Gallery)
Closed due to renovation
Address: Symi Square, Medieval City, Rhodes 85131, Greece
Telephone: +302241023766 and +302241036646

Museum of Modern Greek Art- Syssitio
Address: Sokratous Street, Medieval City, Rhodes 85131, Greece
Telephone: +302241036646

  1. The Aquarium of Rhodes or Hydrobiological Station of Rhodes

Located on the Northern tip of the island it was built by the Italians in 1934. In 1937 it began working as a research unit called the Royal Institute of Marine Biology of Rhodes, (Reale Instituto di Ricerch Biogiche di Rodi).

Since 1947 following the incorporation of the Dodecanese to Greece it has operated under the supervision of the Academy of Athens as Hydrobiological Institute. Then since 1963 it has worked as a museum, aquarium and a scientific research unit for the Mediterranean.

Address: Kos Street, Rhodes 851 00, Greece
Telephone: +302241027308
Website: www.hcmr.gr

  1. Hostel of St. Catherine (Hagia Aikaterini)

The Hospice of St. Catherine was built in 1391 – 92, under grand master Heredia, by the Italian Domenico d’ Allemagna, admiral of the Order of the Knights of St. John (Knights Hospitaller). The foundation charter of the Hospice in 1391 states that it was founded in the burgus of Rhodes, near the walls at the gate leading to the mole? already known as the Gate of St. Catherine from 1465. The situation of the building draws the eye, as it projects into the axis of the high street; the salient part carries the coats of arms of 1516.

The Hospice, exclusively intended for eminent guests of the Order, was already in use from 1394-95; at this date traveller Niccole de Martoni described it as beautiful and splendid, with many handsome rooms containing many and good beds.

In the hostel of St. Catherine operate exhibition areas which exposed the restoration work of the building, one bedroom representation of Knights era and ancient deserts from the surrounding area.

Address: Thiseos & Evreon Martyron, 85131, Medieval Town, Rhodes
Telephone: +302241030960, +302241365200
Free entrance

  1. The Jewish Museum of Rhodes

The Jewish Museum of Rhodes opens for the first time in 1997. Aron Hasson, attorney, from Los Angeles and Rhodian third generation, is the founder and the one who inspired the idea of creating a museum. He noticed the lack of awareness for the unique history of the Community of the local community and visitors to the island. So as a first step in October 1997, on his own initiative and funding, opened its doors to an exhibition with photographs in the space next to the Synagogue, where was the women’s section.

At the same time, he founded the Foundation Rhodes Historical Foundation, a nonprofit organization that was used as a vehicle to promote this goal and started collecting photos, stories and material objects from Rhodians from abroad but also from various other sources from around the world as donations for the continuation of the purpose.

Also created a website to be a resource for people interested in the history of the Jews of Rhodes and those planning to travel to Rhodes. Gradually, the motivation and the economic contribution of the Community and individual donors Museum extended its area tripled and after repairs in 2006 reopened with renovated a of interesting exhibits.

Address: Simmiou & Dossiadou str. Mediaval Town, next to the Synagogue Kahal Shalom in the same complex
Telephone: +302241022364
Website: www.jewishrhodes.org, www.rhodesjewishmuseum.org

  1. The Bee Museum

This exceptional Museum of Apiculture and Natural History of Greece, offers to the visitors the chance to live a unique experience to see, the wonderful world of bees, through transparent observation hives, they can learn the tradition and history of beekeeping in Rhodes and the process of making honey.

Address: 5th km Tsairi – Airport Road, near Pastida Village, Rhodes 85104, Greece
Telephone: +302241048200
Website: www.mel.gr

  1. Rhodian House

Every year on June 23rd the revival custom of Klidonas takes place at this traditional Rhodian house.

Address: Pindou & Voriou Ipiroy, Rhodes 85100, Greece
Telephone: +306979252672
Free Entrance

  1. Preserved Traditional Settlement Koskinou

The traditional Koskinou settlement consists of houses with colorful facades, beautiful gardens with typical Rhodian pebble floor designs (chochlakaki), traditional interior wall designs of ceramic plates and woven wall carpets that fascinate its many visitors. Located in Koskinou Village center, the restored house revives the tradition, art and nobility of the people.

Address: Koskinou, Rhodes 85100, Greece
Telephone: +302241062205, +302241009587 and +306941511249

  1. Mineralogy and Paleontology Museum (Palychroni Stamatiadis)

This shows a collection of minerals and fossils from Greece and around the world. They include samples of Laurium, copper and lead minerals, rocks, petrified logs and fossilized plants. In separate displays you can find fossilized marine organisms from earlier times.

Address: 33, Iraklidon Avenue – Ialysos, Rhodes 85101, Greece
Telephone: +302241090201 and +306975595865
Website: www.geomuseum.gr/

  1. Artistic Village (Museum of Ceramic Art)

Artistic Village Contemporary Art is an art gallery & a Μuseum of Ceramic Art and has been operating since 1984 by Nikolas I. Simiakos. It lies on the eastern coast of the beautiful island of Rhodes, 23 kilometers outside Rhodes town. It is easily reached from anywhere in the town by taking the national road from Rhodes Town to Lindos. Rhodes Diagoras airport is only a 30 – minute drive from the Artistic Village, and Rhodes Town and the harbour are a similar distance away. You will find the Artistic Village between cosmopolitan Afandou and the tourist area of Kolymbia. The ample parking space, and the many outdoor relaxation areas in this beautiful and very pleasant environment, are only some of the facilities on offer to visitors to the Artistic Village.

In the welcoming 600 sq. metre art gallery, visitors will be able to see innovative art works, ornaments, sculptures, special designs and compositions made from clay, glass, wood, bronze, iron, aluminium and other materials. Artistic Village also includes a painting studio, a workshop of 200 sq.m. and an open Museum of Ceramic Art.

The Museum is an open exhibitional space located at the yard of Artistic Village. It’s the first museum where visitors can learn about pottery art from its beginning until today. In the Museum of Ceramic Art, visitors can first see the workshop, where the craftsman works on pottery. The workshop should have ample space so that the artist works in comfort and a potter’s wheel on the corner. Here you can also see the various kinds of clay that are used in Rhodes, as well as the tools, the kilns and how they were getting prepared to turn the mud into pot. The Museum also shows the strong connection between people and ceramics. The ceramic items are used in the entire journey of life, especially in Greece and Rhodes Island. They are involved in the most important events in life and were largely used in household until a few decades ago, as can be understood from the exhibits of the Museum of Ceramic Art.

Address: 23º Km Rodou – Lindou Avenue, Rhodes 851 03, Greece
Telephone: +302241052038
Website:www.artisticvillage.gr
Free Entrance

  1. Ancient Greek Technology Museum

The vision of the Museum is to showcase the technological marvel of antiquity. The museum studies, highlights and presents to the Greek and international public a supremely important but relatively unknown aspect of ancient Greek civilization: technology, the primary role of which is indisputable in the development and flourishing of any civilization, let alone the ancient Greek one, which gave humanity unparalleled creations that we all know and admire – from the Antikythera Calculating Mechanism to the Parthenon.

Address: 11 Akti Shaktouri, Old Town, Thalassini Pyli, 85131 Rhodes
Telephone: +306944568208
Website: https://www.facebook.com/RhodesKotsanasmuseum/about
Email: kolonagate@gmail.com

  1. Toy Museum

The Rhodes Toy Museum is situated just outside the village of Archipoli. Nestled amongst olive groves, it is surrounded by mountains and pine forests. The museum was built with our stunning natural environment in mind. Therefore it is completely powered by solar energy.

In the museum you can find an exhibition of toys, all made in Greece, from the period 1930 until about 1990. Wind up tin toys, battery operated cars, board games, Greek Playmobil are amongst the big collection of toys that are shown in the main exhibition hall.

The basement is made as a ‘Games room’ with arcade coin operated machines dating from the sixties until the nineties, including a pinball machine, jukebox and Pacman. These machines are in working order and can be enjoyed by the visitors of the museum.

Beside the exhibition there is also the opportunity for children to play actively. There’s an area in the museum where they can play with well known toys such as Lego and Playmobil, find interactive toys and possibilities for handicrafts.

Also outside there is a playground for children, and a terrace where visitors can enjoy the stunning view.

In the gift shop of the museum original souvenirs are sold.

Bring back memories and relive your childhood at the Rhodes Toy Museum!

Address: Archipoli, 85104 Rhodes
Website: https://www.toymuseum.gr
Telephone: +306985702210

  1. The Cultural and Geological Melathron of Rhodes

The Cultural Palace of Rhodes is housed in an imposing building with 3 floors filled from top to bottom with various collections, antiquities and precious history. The exterior has been made to replicate the Athenian Parthenon in its original colors, and is quite spectacular. The ground floor is basically a stunning Rhodian home, with old furnishings, filled with interesting bits and pieces, and the most beautiful ceilings painted with ancient Greek Gods and philosophers. The top floor is basically Greek / Rhodian life, plates, art, general bits and pieces of interest. Finally, the basement is the geological section with lots of collected stones, gemstones, corals etc. Most impressive is that much of the museum and its contents has been made and collected by the owner himself.

The museum was founded by Spyros Katsouris a banker by profession also a poet and a writer with many accolades over his life. After retirement in 2005 he began work on building his museum to house his collections. This is Spyros’ life’s passion; he lives here and self-funded the works. His publications are for sale and his little shop at the end has some nice little things in too, that can be bought to support his endeavors. It is worth noting that the museum is recognized by UNESCO and there is a medal hanging in one of the rooms as proof. The owner provides a guided tour for free that takes about 1-1.5 hours. The museum is open daily from 09:00 to 14:00 and entry is free. This is a genuinely different museum and more than worth a visit if you are enthusiast of Greek mythology and history. We recommend phoning ahead of your visit, to benefit from his most interesting and entertaining guided tour.

Address: 17, N. Vrettakou, Asgourou, 85131 Rhodes
Telephone: +302241061285 and +306934897836
Email: anakreon.davlis@gmail.com

  1. Art Park

The Art Park is a non-profit art, photography, sculpture and music gallery. The park first opened in May 2006, led by Damon Papakiriakou, an artist, sculptor and musician, and his wife Emily, an English teacher.The Art Park is not only an exhibition space, but also a workplace: artists who come to Rhodes can have their own space in the outdoor workshops, where they can create their art. The Park’s electricity is provided only by photovoltaics, as solar energy is environmentally friendly. Art Park is located in Archipolis, an idyllic area of Rhodes near the forest.

Address: Archipoli, 85104 Rhodes
Telephone: +306972815547
Website: https://www.facebook.com/artparkrhodes

  1. Folklore Museum of Archangelos

The folklore museum of Archangelos is housed in a traditional house built in the 1860s. It is a private initiative of the family and is non-profit, since the income is intended for the acquisition of new exhibits. There the visitor can admire the rich local history of Archangelos, as well as the works of pottery, the most characteristic art of the village from ancient times to the present day. All objects and costumes are authentic from the 18th to the 20th century.The area of the house is decorated according to the custom with all the local textiles and ceramics. The visitor is given a guided tour of the architecture of the house, the objects and details of their construction techniques are given.

Address: Agios Antoniou Street, Archangelos, Rhodes
Telephone: +306938047639
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Archangelosfolkmuseum?locale=el_GR