Aquarium of Rhodes - Hydrobiological Station HCMR — Attraction in Municipality of Rhodes

Luckily I can say this is the worst aquarium I've ever been in... Lucky because thankfully marine animals are treated far better in every other aquarium I've ever been in.

When you walk on the turn stile, straight ahead there's a small museum which has a touch pool. Not sure all the marine life listed was still in the touch pool - sadly suspect it may have died.

To the left of when you walk in, there's the main tank display area in a cave like environment. There are quite a few different varieties of things to look at.

I was surprised at how small some of the tanks were. One of the larger tanks towards the end of the walk has a number of anemone (see next paragraph for their health) and a loan trigger fish. I think it could have done with some company.

Sadly a few of the anemone looked as if they were dead or dying (it could be that there's not enough water movement in their tanks but they didn't look good. A few of the fish looked mat (as if a film of algae were growing on the fish) and I even remarked on one of the crabs green algae growth on its shell as when I've seen similar crabs in the wild they are "house proud" crabs - always with immaculate shells :(

Near the end of the walk through the cave system there's an octopus who looked bored which is a really sad thing to see given how intelligent octopus are.

And at the very end there happens to be a box for feedback exclaiming how "we value your feedback", so much so we have no forms available for you to fill in and the box is empty implying we never want your feedback...

Needless to say we won't be going back and would not recommend given the conditions the marine life was...

The Hydrobiological Institute of Rhodes (Hydrobiological Station of Rhodes) is not just an aquarium but a living museum that takes you back in time, showcasing how aquariums were in the past. The building, constructed during the Italian occupation (1934-1935), is an architectural gem. Designed by the Italian architect Armando Bernabiti, this impressive structure combines Art Deco aesthetics with nautical elements and local architectural features, creating a space that captivates visitors from the very first moment.

The aquarium, located in the basement, hosts fascinating specimens of Mediterranean marine life. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the biodiversity of the Aegean Sea, admire rare species, and learn about the importance of protecting the marine environment.

Additionally, the Institute has a long history of research, having started its operations in 1936. It focuses on subjects such as the biology and hydrology of the Aegean Sea, as well as practical issues related to fishing and sponge diving.

Situated at the northernmost tip of Rhodes, at Cape Mylon, the location offers a unique view, making the visit even more unforgettable. It is a destination worth visiting, whether to discover the rich marine life of the area or to admire a piece of the island's history and...

Place to be for every sea life fan. Exposition is divided in 2 areas. In first, there are multilingual signs stating some interesting facts and brief history of sea life. Exposition showing crustaceans, seashells and corals. Relief map of Mediterranean sea caught my eye too. Small open tank where you can not only observe but touch some species is really something. Touch screen w/ educational quiz mini-game is a quick entertainment for children and adults as well. You can also buy some commemorative coins , depicting either crab or octopus on one side and the aquarium building on other - 2 € a piece. However the second part is where the journey truly begins. Designed as artificial cave and situated under the ground level, the area is humid and pleasantly cold. At the entrance you are welcomed by creepy moray followed by crabs in all shapes and sizes, cute sea urchins and starfish, majestic lionfish, and lovely rays and plaice. In the end awaits you the pinnacle of expostion: absolutely gorgeous octopus! She even showed off, floating nonchalantly in front of us. Really worth...