Street of the Knights of Rhodes — Attraction in Municipality of Rhodes

Walking down the Street of the Knights is like stepping into a living medieval painting. This remarkably well-preserved cobblestone street runs from the Palace of the Grand Master to the Hospital of the Knights and was the ceremonial heart of the Knights Hospitaller during their rule over Rhodes from 1309 to 1522.

Each building along the street once housed a "Langue"—a national division of the Order—representing different regions like France, Italy, Spain, and Germany. The facades display coats of arms and Gothic details that reflect the cultural identity of each group. Despite centuries of history, the street has retained its authentic medieval character, thanks to careful restoration by Italian architects in the early 20th century.

There’s a rare stillness here, even when the Old Town is bustling. The narrow passage, lined with tall stone buildings and arched doorways, feels timeless. Imagine knights in armor passing by on horseback, flags fluttering above, and the air filled with a sense of solemn duty and tradition.

Today, some of the buildings are used as government offices or museums, while others remain closed to preserve their historical integrity. It’s best visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quiet stroll—and incredible photos without the crowds. A must-see for anyone...

«A must see in Rhodes Old Town» you say?

The Medieval City is on UNESCOs world heritage list, but the only thing you’ll see that could remind you of a medieval, historic attraction are the walls from the outside. When you walk through one of the many gates/entrances, you’ll see booth after booth, with the same jewellery, cups and refrigerator magnets everywhere, and there is no end to them.

Sightworthy artifacts, such as the ‘Kastello’ (The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes) and the ‘Roloi’ (The Medieval Clock Tower) get lost in a sea of tourist shops and ants (both people and actual ants).

I know this would be worth spending a whole day exploring, if only the beatiful architecture was not covered up with «sale»-signs and parasolls from the shops, which (by the way) are a whole lot more expensive than other shops around the city.

We went to a smoothie shop at some point, and ordered a Fanta and a strawberry smoothie. Both were served in gigantic bowls of maybe 2L, filled to the top with ice-cubes. Cost? 25€ Lesson learned: Always ask for the prices before you order, if the menu doesn’t say.

I am sorry, absolutely not...

Walking down the Street of the Knights (Οδός Ιπποτών) in Rhodes is like stepping into a living manuscript of medieval Europe. Perfectly preserved and hauntingly beautiful, this cobbled thoroughfare—once the ceremonial heart of the Knights Hospitaller—remains one of the most evocative streets in all of Europe.

Lined with austere yet majestic stone façades, each auberge tells a silent tale of the Order’s different Langues, or tongues—representing the various nations of the knights. The architecture is sober, noble, and powerful, just like the ideals the knights professed to defend. As you ascend slowly toward the Palace of the Grand Master, each step seems to echo with history.

There are no neon signs here, no tourist traps cluttering the view—just the hush of centuries under your feet and above your head. The street rewards those who walk it slowly, who look up, and who listen carefully.

To visit Rhodes without walking this street would be to visit Venice and miss the canals, or Cairo and skip the pyramids. It’s not just a place—it’s an experience of time...