Sketching Rhodes is to Step Back in Time

Rhodes is the fourth largest Greek Island in the southeastern Aegean Sea and a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Passing through the fortification walls that surround the old city is a step back in time to the middle ages when the Hospitaller Knights of St. John ruled the city for 200 years. Even further, Rhodes is dotted with ruins dating back to ancient times. The question is, where to start sketching first?

The most significant monument in old town Rhodes is the Palace of the Grand Master. The palace was initially built in the late 7th century as a Byzantine citadel. However, it underwent significant transformation after the Knights Hospitaller occupied Rhodes in 1309. They converted this existing fortress into the residence for their Grand Master who hosted notable historic figures such as Richard the Lionheart and Philip II of France.

Inside visitors will find magnificent Hellenistic and Roman mosaics, classical statues, and a permanent exhibition that spans 2,400 years of Rhodes’ history.

Leading up to the palace, visitors must follow the Street of the Knights, a cobblestoned route lined with several inns associated with different “tongues” or nationalities of knights who occupied Rhodes including those from Italy, France, Spain, and Provence. These inns not only served as accommodations but also played a crucial role in defending specific areas of the city walls during their time.

At the other end of the street is the Hospital of the Knights that was constructed in the 1300s to provide care for sick and injured knights and pilgrims enroute to the holy land. Today it is primarily used as a museum and cultural site.

Just outside the city walls is the famed harbour that was once dominated by the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World constructed around 285BC. This monumental statue dedicated to the sun god Helios stood approximately 33 meters (108 feet) high until it collapsed during an earthquake in 226 BC.

Ancient archeological sites dot the island including the Lindos Acropolis featuring the ruins of the Temple of Athena Lindia dating back to approximately 300 BC. We’re itching to pull out our pens and paints to capture this ancient Doric temple and the magnicent views of St. Paul’s Bay, the famed landing place of the Apostle Paul.

Sketching kit in hand, we will capture it all during our small group Artist Retreat that will feature 5 outstanding art classes with top urban sketcher instructor, Tom Pajdlhauser Sept 18-22, 2025. Join us!

Early Bird deposit deadline is April 21. Save $200!

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