Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes
TIME : 2016/2/22 11:09:11
Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes
Watching over the city of Rhodes from the peak of its ancient citadel, the Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights is the city’s most iconic building, dominating the skyline with its dramatic facade. Built in the 14th century by the Knights of St John, the vast palace is encircled by crenellated ramparts and guarded over by multiple watchtowers. The palace marks the highest point of the medieval city of Rhodes, leading down to the port via the famous Avenue of the Knights (Ippoton).
Today, much of the palace structure dates from its early 20th century reconstruction, with over 150 rooms positioned around a central courtyard and lavishly decorated with medieval style furnishings. Tours of the palace and grounds are a popular pastime for visitors to Rhodes, with 24 of the official rooms open to the public including the Great Council Chamber, the dining areas, the music room and the ‘Margarites’ - the private quarters of the Grand Masters.
A notable collection of antique furniture, sculptures, carpets and artworks adorn the interiors, including a permanent exhibition devoted to the creation of ancient Rhodes. Highlights include a series of elaborate floor mosaics, dating from the late Hellenistic, Roman and Early Christian periods and excavated from the neighboring island of Kos.