Acropolis of Rhodes: A unique monumental zone

It consisted of a monumental zone containing sanctuaries, large temples, public buildings and underground places of worship (the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus, the Temple of Pythian Apollo, the Artemision, the Stadium and the Gymnasium). Most of the monuments on the acropolis date back to the Hellenistic and Late Hellenistic periods (3rd – 2nd century BC).

According to Aelius Aristides, a prominent sophist of the 2nd century AD, the area was full of groves, harmoniously combining natural beauty with human interventions, as the Hellenistic spirit dictated. The small reconstructed marble Odeon, as well as the Stadium, surrounded by vegetation, add to the feeling of a welcoming space that facilitates both physical and mental stimulation.

With respect to this original vision, the local Ephorate of Antiquities has embarked on an enormous effort to restore the monumental complex, but also to completely redevelop the surrounding area into an integrated archaeological park, a project that has been implemented, for the most part.