Welcome back to your island tour, and now, let’s dive into a bit about Monte Smith in Rhodes, also known as Mount Smith, Agios Stefanos Hill, and The Acropolis Of Rhodes.
So, what’s the reason behind the name Monte Smith? What is the history that stands behind it? Where on the island can you find this relaxed and peaceful location?
Well in actual fact, Monte Smith is located just south of The City Of Rhodes (approximately 3 km) and in all honesty it is a pleasant walk should you be willing to tackle the inclined streets to get there.
You can of course opt for a taxi or a bus if you prefer an easier time, but trust me, the walk and the fresh air is worth it if you want to head there from The City.
Monte Smith In Rhodes – The History Behind the Name
Amidst the war with the Turks in 1802, there arose a crucial need for an observation point to vigilantly monitor the movements of Napoleon and his fleet in the Mediterranean Sea.
This area was a perfect place to set up this lookout point due to its elevation on the island (it is the highest point in the city), as from here you have a clear view of the waters on both sides of the island as well as the city itself.
When you stand on Monte Smith, you can easily see far to the west over the area of Ixia, and on a clear day, Turkey is clearly visible. To the east, you get a fantastic view of the coast, covering all the port areas on the island.
General Sydney Smith was the British Naval Admiral serving at this time during the French Revolutionary War between 1792 and 1802, and assisted in countering the French attacks in the Mediterranean Sea.
He did this with success and it was later said by Napoleon later in his life that Smith was the reason he missed out on his destiny. This is why the area bears his name..
Watch The Video And Learn About The History Of Monte Smith
What Awaits You At Monte Smith In Rhodes
Here you will find an ancient stadium with dates back to the 2nd Century BC. It is 200 meters in length and 35 meters wide and you can really feel the history here.
There is stone seating all the way around and at the end of the stadium you can see where the people of a higher status would have sat to enjoy the festivities that took place all them years ago.
The area remains in very good condition in my opinion, considering it has undergone restructuring over the years.
In the past, people used it for games and entertainment, and even now, it hosts small concerts during the summer months.
I go here a lot to take in the beautiful clean fresh air, get some exercise and to take some photos, some of with I have included here for you to see.
Monte Smith In Rhodes – The Theater
Sitting next to the Old Stadium is the small theater which has been constructed of marble.
This is a beautiful setting and has been reconstructed and has a fresh look to it.
Again this is used nowadays for small concerts and I have seen it in use by people offering classes and education. It is also said that in the old days it was used for the same purpose but not so much for entertainment events.
It was utilized more for rhetoric classes.
The Temple Of Apollo
Standing proud on top of the hill at Monte Smith you will find the Temple Of Pythian Apollo. The temple, dating back from the 5th to the 3rd Century BC, underwent excavation by the Italians during their occupation between 1912 and 1945. The Greek Archaeological Service took over from there.
During World War 2 the site suffered extreme damage due to bombing which in my opinion is really tragic. Such a lot of history was destroyed.
From the ruins, archaeologists have partially reconstructed some sections. However, at present, only the remains on the north-east side still stand. Consequently, the structure is currently safeguarded by scaffolding to prevent any further damage and loss.
On saying that, the area really is worth visiting. If you love history and do not mind the sun, then it can really be a pleasant experience.
Me personally, I love visiting this area as the sun is setting. You can stand there and watch the sun slowly disappear behind the Turkish mountains and enjoy the bright red rays lighting up the sky. It is quite special.
The Remaining Column Of The Temple Of Apollo
- The Remaining Column Of The Temple Of Apollo
Monte Smith In Rhodes – Overall
Just remember, that this location carries a lot in the way of a historic feeling, and although the temple has suffered a lot of damage, it really is worth seeing.
It is a popular spot for the tourists and buses filled with people come and go on a regular basis. It is with good reason too. So do not miss out on this.
I hope you have found this area of some interest, but naturally if you have any questions or comments then feel free to let me know.
Have you visited this amazing place and have something to share? If so, I would love your thoughts!
Just leave them in the comments area below!
Learn More About The City Of Rhodes. Click From Below For Further Reading.
What a super place to visit with plenty to see and explore when you get there and some amazing views as well.
That Admiral must have been an amazing chap to have Napoleon Bonaparte credit him with stopping him from expanding the French Empire further.
I’m glad to see there is some shade for the theatre!
Thanks for a great article!
Thanks Julia
Yes, Monte Smith was an important place where the defense of the island was concerned. It was important in those day to keep a close eye on the waters, and this location was perfect for just that!
Packed with history, it is definitely a place to see if you are on the island.
Thanks for passing by. I appreciate your interest.
Chris
Hello
After watching your video l feel l definitely need a holiday now. After doing long hours and creating videos myself, this place seems like the perfect place to relax and wind down.
There is so much history to seek and find, and many places seem lovely and secluded with stunning views. This area on Monte Smith certainly fits the bill on what I am looking for!
I fell in love with Greece after visiting Corfu many years ago, which is the second largest of the Ionian Islands. Have you been there?
Great website by the way Chris, and maybe Rhodes is going to be the next holiday destination for us.
All the best.
WT
Hello my friend and thanks for getting in contact.
I am happy you found this section on Monte Smith enjoyable! If you are looking for peace and quiet and lovely views with peace and quiet, then Rhodes is certainly a place where you can find it.
There are a lot of secluded places especially if you make a tour down the west coast. See The West Coast of Rhodes section for more areas of interest.
I have actually never been to Corfu. I am originally from the UK, and I know with the Brits that Corfu is quite the hot spot. I did actually look into visiting some years ago, but I don’t know. I just didn’t get a full feeling for it. I came to Rhodes instead! Maybe one day I will try it out.
Thanks for reading and for your comments. It is nice to hear from you.
Chris
This is very interesting. I will have to visit Monte Smith sometime, perhaps when the sun is setting like you said.
It is such a shame that the temple suffered so much damage during World War II (that goes to show some of the devastating impact that war can have).
If you want to walk there from the city, how long does it usually take?
Hello there and thanks for reading.
Unfortunately yes, Monte Smith and other ancient structures were hit heavily during the conflict of World War Two. It is a shame.
I often stand and look at the ancient places wondering what they would be like today if it was not for war. We will never know will we?
Monte Smith is the highest point in the city. Walking there is very pleasant, but be prepared to tackle the uphill roads 🙂
From Rhodes Town, the walk there will take you approximately 30 to 40 minutes depending on your pace. It is not so far at all – 3 Km. Try it, you will get some nice exercise and some beautiful fresh sea air 🙂
Thanks
Chris
I love this article. Such amazing pictures and a wealth of information.
I have never been to Greece, but when I go in April 2018 I will definitely visit Monte Smith.
I can not wait to visit Greece. I will definitely go to Rhodes and walk to Monte Smith.
The theater and Temple of Apollo look amazing and I will visit them also.
Thank you for sharing this with us.
Hello there Mike, it is great to hear you have a Greek vacation planned for 2018. You will not go away disappointed I promise you 🙂
When you say Greece, are you planning a tour around the country or are you visiting the mainland? Either way, to get to Rhodes, it is a simple flight of less than half an hour, no matter where you are! Let me know.
Monte Smith is definitely a special place. If you can get to Rhodes, then this place is for sure one of the highlights. History, sun, views – it is all here.
Just for you to know, the Temple Of Apollo, The Marble Theater and The Old Stadium are all next to each other. It is a place where you get 3 for the price of 1 shall we say. It is free to visit the site too. No money required 🙂
Thanks Mike, hope to see you soon. Nice to meet you.
Chris
Hello Chris
Excellent narration of yours, I am happy that you live near Mount Smith in Rhodes, Greece. I was delighted to see the video and hear all the history that this island has.
Unfortunately, the man and his wars have greatly deteriorated his incredible architecture. In any case, I am very happy that a dream of yours came true in this historical and paradisaical place.
Greetings from Argentina, maybe I’ll visit you soon!
Hello there my friend and thanks for your visit all the way from Argentina 🙂 The wonders of the modern world and its technology allows us all to come together no matter where we are from.
I am also happy and grateful to be living next door to such a wonderful piece of history.
I visit Monte Smith on a regular basis to be honest. It is wonderful for the history, the scenery, the sunsets and the plain fresh air. It is a beautiful place.
Unfortunately yes, sometimes I sit and think that the human race has a lot to answer for. So much destruction has been cause at the hands of mankind. I never forget though, that it was mankind that also built these wonderful places. So what can we say?
I am grateful I am able to witness places such as this before time eventually will take them all away!
I hope you make your long journey from Argentina to Rhodes at some point. It will be an experience you will not forget 🙂
Thanks
Chris
Oh wow! I have to go there. Love the history and culture that you mention here.
Rhodes has long been a must-visit for us, but for whatever reason we have never gotten around to it. We did nearby Santorini and that was fantastic so I have no doubt that this will place be just a lovely.
Thanks for sharing – The Acropolis video was great and a real eye-opener. In fact it was this that probably has just sent Rhodes to the top of of holiday destination list for 2018!
Thanks again. A wonderful place and great review.
Hello Sean, and it is nice to see you enjoyed the material here on my website.
Videos in my opinion can really add value to information and supplement it really well.
I love to write and talk about places such as Monte Smith, and love to share my knowledge and photos, but sometimes a nice video can really bring the information to life.
Just to know though, even the video is nothing like seeing a place with your own eyes, so it is great you are considering a holiday here 🙂 If you manage it feel free to let me know and I will give you some pointers.
Monte Smith has some great views and you will see a sunset from here like never before. It is absolutely fantastic. Seeing The Acropolis and The Old Stadium for yourself is quite an experience and one that should not be missed 🙂
Hope to see you here soon Sean, and nice to meet you.
Thanks for passing by!
Chris
Thanks for your article. I have been to many islands in Greece but only spent 1 night in Rhodes. That’s a shame because Rhodes has such great history. I did not manage to see Monte Smith due to my short stay, but I hope to get back there someday for a more in depth tour.
The food in Greece is so good too. I still remember a stuffed squid I had during my sort stay in Rhodes.
I will follow you on Facebook. Do the cruise ships go past Rhodes as well?
Hello there Dave and thanks so much for getting in touch with me.
It is wonderful that you have managed to land on Rhodes, but such a shame your stay was somewhat limited.
You are right, there is tons of history here to see and appreciate, and if you manage another visit, I encourage you to make a tour around 🙂
Monte Smith can actually overlooks the harbor and it really is a beautiful setting. As it stands at the moment the Temple Of Apollo has been protected with scaffolding. There has been some high winds of recent and something needed to be done to ensure it was as safe as possible.
There are plenty of cruise ships that frequent the island too yes. The companies that operate are vast and there are too many to mention them all here, but they also stop here in the winter too.
I will admit I love the Greek food too. I will also openly admit I have somewhat a delicate stomach. I think the squid I would personally avoid, as I would the lambs brains too 🙂 I made a section on Greek Cuisine here if you are interested!
Well, really great to hear from you Dave, and I hope you find yourself in this area again soon.
Chris
So much history in Rhodes. I absolutely love the Temple of Pythian Apollo. It really has withstood time for sure.
It’s too bad that it has had so much damage, but on the other hand, it still looks majestic and at least they have been able to preserve some of it. I would love to come and see it for myself and soak up the historic atmosphere.
Amazing place you live in. Do they still hold any kind of theater at the Marble Theater?
Hey Leahrae, I hope you are keeping well. Nice to hear from you again.
Although the Temple Of Apollo took some heavy bombardment during the war, I will be honest and say I am happy there is still something left standing.
Even now, it is an amazing place to visit and I love it every time I go, but I do often sit and wonder what the structure was originally like, It is a shame it is in the condition it is, but hey, I guess this is what time and the human race does to things.
As for the Marble Theater, there are on occasions some activities that take place there. A lot of the time I have witnessed the younger generations using it to offer Easter and Christmas performances but apart from that it does seem to be a quiet and left alone area.
I think it would be nice if it was put into good use again though. Okay, it has its history, but what is done today will also be history in the future, so it is a shame to let it sit there unused. My opinion 🙂
Great to see you again Leahrae!
Chris
Lovely site, love the photos and in-depth history!
You may have covered this in another post, but wondering if you’ve seen any of the possible sites of the Colossus of Rhodes? If only we could time travel back to see that in its full glory!
I’ve heard there were recent plans made to build a “new Colossus”, have you heard anything about whether those plans have progressed and whether or not they’ve chosen a site?
Hey there, thanks so much for your visit and interest.
I have actually covered The Colossus here. If you take a look you will see the information from the history to the talking of the new structure.
If they do build the New Colossus then you will be able to see it from Monte Smith for sure. It would make a great location for some photographs without a doubt.
I am in two minds though. Should things like this be left in the past and sustain the mystery behind it all? Or would a more advanced and up to date structure take the importance of the original away? I am not so sure.
I think a New Colossus would be exciting yes, I think it would be great for the tourists too, I just do not want it to overshadow the original. But hey, we can not have it all ways can we? 🙂
Thanks
Chris
Hi Chris,
I never knew Napoleon tried to invade Greece. Thank goodness for General Sydney Smith. History would have been a lot different if were not for the heroics of the British and Russians. The Russian winter deserves a lot of the credit as well.
I love Greek history and architecture. What an amazing civilization they created. Imagine how far advanced we would be had they survived. We would probably have colonies on Mars a few hundred years ago. I believe the Greeks were much more advanced than scholars believe.
Keep up the good work Chris! I can’t wait for your next post. I hope to see you in the Isle of Rhodes some day. I’d love to buy you a beer and talk about Greek history. There is so much I would like to learn.
Jack
Hey Jack. Hope you are doing fine, it is great to hear from you.
The Island Of Rhodes is packed with history for sure and there is so much to learn and mountains of things to see.
I know a lot of people look at Greece and the Greeks as a somewhat laid back culture, and sometimes I can see why. But when you look at the history and the things they have achieved, it tells a different story. Even if you look at your own language, you will find a lot of the words originate from Greek.
Greek is everywhere, more than people realize.
Visiting Rhodes (or Greece in general to be honest) will offer you a real insight into the history.
Naturally, Rhodes has suffered in the past and has undertaken different occupations. The Roman Empire had a presence here, as did the Ottoman Empire.
All these historic events have left their mark here on the island, including the architecture you mention. So get over here – you will love it 🙂
Thanks Jack, and let me know if you need something more.
Chris
Hey, Chris,
The article is great my friend,
You make it easy to imagine what it should feel like when being there,
The thing I liked the most is your telling of the history of Monty Smith.
I mean, it certainly is cooler to hang out there knowing that you’re on an old observation position that made things hard for “Napoleon”, than just going around without knowing the reason for the existence of such a place!
Thank you for the good read,
Cheers!
Hi there Aydo and thanks for reading.
You know, a lot of people do just that. They visit places and leave without knowing the story behind it. This is one of the reasons I wanted to make this website.
I always remember talking to a friend of mine who lives here in my neighborhood, and he had been to Monte Smith some days earlier with his wife and took some great photos.
But when it came to why the place is there and what it all means, he had no idea. I had the pleasure of telling him the story 🙂
Happy you enjoyed the post 🙂
Thanks Aydo!
Chris
This is super informative, thanks for sharing this. I definitely need to have Rhodes on my travel list.
I do have a question though. If you say there are a lot of tourists and buses that bring people to these ruins daily, is there a good time of year or time of day to go to avoid a crowd?
Hey Stephanie thanks for your question!
The summer season at its busiest runs throughout July and August. May/June and September/October are generally more quiet when it comes to the tourist levels.
On saying that, even in the high season, the crowds can be avoided. A lot of the people that visit these sites generally go between 9 and 5/6 pm, so if you are an early morning person then this could be perfect for you.
When it comes to Monte Smith though, I personally love the sunset. If you go around 8 pm you will find it peaceful and quiet and you can watch the sun fall behind the mountains of Turkey lighting up the sky bright orange,
This is certainly something worth seeing:)
Hope this helps Stephanie, and if have anything more to ask I am always here 🙂
Thanks
Chris
Thanks for the tour and amazing pictures!
Greece has always been on the top of my “next to visit list” and now that I’ve seen your website I’m definitely adding Rhodes to my trip.
It is truly a one of a kind place, the history and structures are just fascinating!
Look forward to reading more about it all
Thank you
Hi SJ.
I am glad the website here as given you a nice taste of what Rhodes has to offer.
It is full of history, fine architecture, customs and culture and for sure it is worth seeing.
Keep it on your “to do list” and let me know as and when you make a visit. I am here if you need anything at all.
Thanks SJ
Chris
Chris this website is wonderful! I felt like I was there!
The history brings Rhodes to life. This was originally the honeymoon spot my husband and I chose before deciding on a different Island. We are still planning on visiting.
I feel more prepared with all the useful information.
Thank you!
Hey Jessica, thanks for your visit and for your comment too 🙂
A lot of people do choose to get married here in Rhodes.
The climate is quite reliable and some of the settings can be really beautiful for the photographs too. I have seen a lot of people getting in married in Kalithea where the natural springs are located. A hot spot for sure.
Although you opted for another island to have your big day, it is great to know Rhodes is still on your list. I will keep adding information here, but if you ever need anything fell free to give me a shout.
Thanks Jessica
Chris
Wow, this looks like an amazing place to visit.
I am a bit envious of your ability to frequently visit such a historic site! I think it’s astounding that such an old theater is still used for classes and entertainment today.
Have you ever attended the events held there? What is the sound quality like now? Does the theater carry the voices or music as well as other theatres? Fascinating! Thanks for providing such thorough detail of this place!
Hi Cat and thanks for your interest and for your questions.
I will not say I have directly attended these classes or events and the theater at Monte Smith. But I have seen them in passing.
A lot of the time I pass by walking, and very often things are happening there.
There is another theater in the Ialysos area which is similar in design, and yes, the sound that comes from them is very clear.
The voices travel well, the music is clear and enjoyable, and when the classes are in progress it is easy to hear what they are saying. A lot of the time they use a simple microphone and loudspeaker. I guess this is necessary when operating outdoors!
Hope this answers your questions Cat, and let me know if you need more 🙂
Thanks
Chris
Wow Chris!
I have never heard of this amazing place before reading your post. Great stuff here.
I especially like the details which you offer about the specific sites to see. The theater and temple of Apollo sound and look amazing!
I have been around the Mediterranean a bit, but never to Greece. Hopefully soon I can enjoy!
Hey Justin, thanks for passing by and offering your thoughts. Great to hear from you.
It is a shame you have had your opportunities to be close by to Greece but never to be able to stop and soak in what it has to offer.
There are so many wonderful places to see, and Monte Smith is only one of them. I am expanding here all the time, so more information will be coming.
So if you manage to make some plans to get to Rhodes on your next journey, please call back here for the latest information.
You can always contact me too if you like, I will be happy to offer you some good tips 🙂
Thanks Justin!
Chris
Hi,
I’m very interested in coming to Greece. I love your review of Monte Smith in Rhodes. So much amazing history.
The architecture is fascinating. I cannot WAIT until I am able to afford a trip to Europe and your site in Rhodes is definitely on my list.
I look forward to hearing more from you.
Tim
Hey there Tim and thanks for your interest and for getting in touch.
Always the hindrance when it comes to seeing new places is the finances. I find it such as shame that people are not able to see some of the more important and famous places all because of money.
As they say, money is the root of all evil…
Lets hope you can get something together soon, and if you can arrange a visit I will happily help you out when it comes to making your stay an educational and enjoyable one.
Thanks Tim
Chris
Very interesting article and good history lesson, it is a shame that World War 2 destroyed a lot of relics, but isn’t the climate change having a lot to do with the deterioration of the buildings?
Is it a separate island from the mainland? Sorry for the stupid questions but I never been to Greece, but wish I was able to go and visit.
Hey James and you bring up a great point.
Although I will admit that I am not sure about climate change having an adverse effect on the ancient structures, the general environment has played a big part.
For example, when you visit the Acropolis in Athens, you are not allowed to touch the structure. Their are signs telling you it is forbidden and a lot of the areas are sealed off so you can only see them without getting too close.
A lot of work needs to go into preservation too, and it is an ongoing project to keep them sage from mother nature.
The island of Rhodes is not on the mainland. It actually lies to the south west of Athens and it approximately 450 km away. It is in the Dodecanese deep in the blue Mediterranean 🙂
Thanks, and there are no stupid questions. The only stupid question is the one you do not ask, as you will never know the answer.
If you need more, just let me know 🙂
Thanks
Chris
The architecture in Greece is AMAZING!
Greece in general has been on my bucket list for years but this place is captivating. Your photography brings people right into the setting….peaceful.
The Marble Theater is quite the structure too. I can imagine every seat was a good one with this view.
Thoroughly enjoyed your website!
Hello Pam and thank you so much for your kind words and for reading.
Greece really is amazing in general and Rhodes certainly has it all when it comes to old structures and architecture.
As this is on your bucket list already, I am guessing you will not need much in the way of temptation to visit 🙂
If you ever make some secure plans to visit just let me know and I will happily offer you some more inside information to help your stay an enjoyable one!
Thanks Pam!
Chris