Ancient Stadium of Rhodes — Attraction in Municipality of Rhodes

The Ancient Stadium of Rhodes is a significant archaeological site located on Monte Smith Hill, within the Acropolis of Rhodes. This well-preserved stadium dates back to the 2nd century BC, during the Hellenistic period, and served as a venue for athletic events and festivals in ancient Rhodes.

Key Features of the Ancient Stadium: Architecture and Dimensions: • The stadium measures approximately 210 meters long and features a rectangular design with a seating area on its sides. • Stone starting blocks (used by athletes) and spectator seating are still visible. Function: • It hosted athletic competitions, particularly those associated with the Halieia Festival, an event held in honor of the sun god Helios, the patron deity of Rhodes. • Events likely included running, wrestling, and other sports that were part of the ancient Greek pentathlon. Nearby Attractions: • The stadium is part of the Archaeological Park of Monte Smith, which also includes: • The Odeon of Rhodes: A small theater used for music and lectures. • The Temple of Pythian Apollo: Dedicated to Apollo, it features partially reconstructed columns. • The Nymphaia: Cave-like structures for religious and social gatherings. Restoration: • The stadium was restored during the Italian occupation of Rhodes in the early 20th century. Italian archaeologists worked to preserve and reconstruct parts of the structure.

Visiting Information: • Location: Monte Smith Hill, about 2 km southwest of Rhodes Town center. • Access: Free and open to visitors year-round. • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler weather and stunning views of Rhodes and the surrounding sea.

The Ancient Stadium of Rhodes offers a unique glimpse into the island’s history and the role of sports in ancient Greek culture. Its serene surroundings and historical significance make it a must-visit site for history enthusiasts...

The ancient stadium is stunning both in size and architecture.

The Rhodes Stadium is located to the west of Rhodes Town on Monte Smith Hill and was constructed in the 2nd century B.C. Under the Hellenistic influence on Rhodes, the locals took on the Greek gods, and there are the remains of the temples of Zeus, Athena, Apollo, and Helios above the ancient Stadium of Rhodes.

The stadium is located to the southeastern part of the hill and was excavated by the Italians during their rule of the island of Rhodes.

Originally, the stadium was built to be used in events relating to the Cult of Apollo, and it is thought, for the Rhodian School of Rhetoric. Today, the stadium has been restored and is sometimes used for musical or theatrical performances. It seats 800 spectators and measures 200 meters by 35 meters.

The only original components are the Sphendone, Proedries, and a few rows of seats in the auditorium. Also preserved is the starting apparatus used in athletic events, too, is well preserved.

The stadium was of sacred importance to the ancient Rhodians. It was believed that when Zeus divided up the lands among the gods, Helios, the god of Sun, was absent. When he returned, Zeus decided to offer him the first land that sprung up from the sea. Just as he made this promise to Helios, a lush green island emerged from the waters and was bathed in light. Helios, therefore, made the patron...

The ancient Stadium (or Diagoras Stadium) is located on Agios Stefanos hill, near the ancient theater. It dates back to the Hellenistic years (3rd or 2nd century BC), the time of the Alias, great sporting events in honor of the god Helios (or 'Liou), that is, Apollo, the patron saint of the island. The "Small Fishery" was celebrated annually while the "Big Fishery" was celebrated every 4 years and consistently from 300 BC. to 300 AD The festivities included athletic, music and horse racing with women participating. The prize for the "Big Fish" winners was a poplar wreath. Most of the Stadium (210 x 35 m) has been rebuilt. At the ends of the track there is the starting line (the "drop") on one side and the finish line on the other. In the stands there was space for the referees of the games. On the east side of the Stadium were found the ruins of a large square building (200 m on each side), possibly a Gymnasium. West and south there are tombs dug up on the rock, advocating the existence of a necropolis...