Saint Paul's Gate — Attraction in Municipality of Rhodes

Saint Paul’s Gate (Πύλη Αγίου Παύλου) is one of the most prominent and historically significant gates in the fortifications of the Medieval City of Rhodes. Located on the western side of the city walls near Mandraki Harbor, the gate is a striking example of the military architecture of the Knights of St. John.

Key Features of Saint Paul’s Gate Historical Importance: • Built in the 15th century by the Knights of St. John, the gate was strategically placed to defend the entrance to Mandraki Harbor, which was one of the main ports of Rhodes. • The gate is named after Saint Paul, honoring his association with the island, as he is said to have stopped at Rhodes during his missionary journeys. Architectural Details: • Features a semi-circular bastion with thick stone walls, designed to withstand artillery attacks. • The gateway is flanked by imposing towers, showcasing the robust Gothic and military style of the Knights’ fortifications. • Decorative elements include coats of arms and emblems of the Grand Masters. Role in Sieges: • Saint Paul’s Gate played a critical role during the Ottoman Siege of 1522, serving as a key defensive point. Despite the fortifications, the city eventually fell after a prolonged siege. Nearby Landmarks: • Close to the iconic Mandraki Harbor, where the famous Colossus of Rhodes is believed to have stood. • Within walking distance of other gates, including Marine Gate and Amboise Gate. Modern-Day Experience: • Visitors can admire the gate’s intricate medieval design and imagine the city’s vibrant past. • A great spot for photography, especially with the harbor as a backdrop.

Tips for Visitors • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos. • Nearby Attractions: • Explore Mandraki Harbor and its famous deer statues (Elafos and Elafina). • Walk along the city walls for breathtaking views of the Old Town and the sea. • Guided Tours: Consider joining a historical walking tour of the Medieval City to learn more about the gate’s...

Another spectacular gate, a captivating site of immense defensive, aesthetic, and architectural value. It defends the north-northwestern entrance to the city, at a place where attackers assembled on land could flank the walls and attempt assaulting en masse the seafront walls which, while remaining impressive, are not as powerful as those facing the land. Furthermore, this is a critical point for communication and support of the (lost today) tower of Naillac and the great fortress of St. Nicholas. The main tower is adorned with the coat of arms of Grand Master Pierre D 'Aubusson and a sculpture of St. Paul. Nearing the entrance, the coat of arms of Grand Master Giovanni Batista Orsini, predecessor of the former, can also be seen. This gate is easily accessible and one can enjoy an ascent to the battlements with relative ease and safety. That does not mean that one must not be cautious upon the centuries...

The Rhodes Fortress is so vast that it cannot be explored in a single day, and truth be told, even a week is hardly enough to uncover all its hidden corners and unravel all its mysteries.

Among the secret corners we made after several days of wandering along its walls and bastions was the Gate of St. Peter.

This spot is especially worth visiting at sunset or in the evening. A short flight of stone steps leads you up onto the walls, lower here than in other parts of the fortress, where you can sit back and watch the massive ships gliding in and out...