Holidays to Rhodes

But in the past Rhodes' strategic importance was the main attraction, and hence the history of the island is one of the most kaleidoscopic you could find.

Since the days of the City States (as represented by the important site of Kamiros in the west) Rhodes has been occupied by Romans, Byzantines, Genoese, Crusaders, Turks and Italians - the island was only handed back to Greece in 1948. Evidence of most comes in the magnificent setting of Rhodes Old Town, one of the best preserved medieval cities you could hope to see.

Inside its massive walls, the Crusading Knights of St. John had their headquarters for over 200 years. Although the Turks were here for twice that time, it is the silent presence of the Knights that holds sway still.

Rhodes Old Town is a World Heritage Site, and it can seem as if the world has indeed come to see it! But in its narrow lanes, away from the busy commercial heart, it is not difficult to imagine the ghosts of the past.

Outside the walls there is plenty to see and do. The surrounding modern town is lively and cosmopolitan with long beaches to the west. Inland the island is fertile and hilly with many villages (as well as the odd castle or monastery) to explore. And other islands can be visited for the day, Symi being the pick of them.