Visiting the Acropolis of Lindos (Rhodes, Greece)

The Acropolis of Lindos is a must-visit for any traveler to the island of Rhodes, Greece. This ancient site is perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Acropolis was built in the 4th century BC and was dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom. It is home to several temples, including the Temple of Athena Lindia, the Temple of Zeus Polieus, and the Temple of Apollo. The Acropolis also houses a museum that exhibits a collection of ancient artifacts found at the site.

We sailed into the Lindos Port while imagining what arrival in 200 B.C. would have looked like. The Colossus of Rhodes stood for 54 years until 226 B.C. welcoming ships passed beneath it. Long gone today, we were met with the ancient architecture of the new city. A short ride through town brought us to the base of the Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights.

Many have been warned about the steps leading up to the Athens acropolis, but the Acropolis of Lindos is no joke. Consider it the Mount Everest of acropolis entries! Prepare with appropriate shoes, and water and hit the restrooms at the bottom (entry) for a Euro.

The beginning of the climb is simple enough with a small (but steep) hill. We climbed while rolling our eyes at the visitors choosing the donkey rides. Our first stop was a small shopping village. If you are an admirer of doors (like me) you will love the stroll through the village. I am realizing we took fewer photos of doors and more of the door “mats.” The door “mats” were mosaics of white and black beach stones so take your time (enjoy the shade) and enjoy. (You are about to climb a lot of stairs in the sun. According to Apple Watch, we climbed 29,256 steps to view the temple of Athena Lindia.)

The crowds are significant in the area so go early to avoid the people and the heat. While the climb will be crowded and hot in the summer, it is well worth it. You will be met with amazing views and ancient architecture at the top.

Ascending to the highest point of the rock you will find the core sanctuary of Athena Lindia. The area has long been a place of worship. The worship of Athena replaced an earlier cult of an unknown deity (in a cave under the temple). Perched atop the rock you will view the architectural remains of the temple built in the fourth century B.C.

the Colossus of Rhodes

• Considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• The bronze statue stood 70 cubits (108 feet high) greeting the ships in the harbor. Approximately the same height as the Statue of Liberty.
• No traces remain today.
• The statue stood for 54 years until the earthquake of 226 BC. During the earthquake, the statue snapped off at the knees and fell to the land. The Oracle of Delphi warned the Rhodians that the statue offended Helios so it was never rebuilt.

Taking in the views from the top and the narrow shop paths on the way up. Take breaks on your climb and enjoy the view!

Angela DiLoreto

Having retired from the military, I am fascinated with military history. The story of the Palace of The Grand Master of the Knights is sure to intrigue most. The Palace was built in the late 7th Century as a citadel and has served mostly in the role throughout its history. After the Ottoman Empire seized the island in 1522, they too, used it as a fortress and stored gunpowder and ammunition in the lower part. Sadly, this fact was forgotten for over 300 years until 1856 when it exploded, causing severe damage.

Vince DiLoreto