Welcome back to the Medieval City and in this section I will be talking to you about The Archaeological Museum In Rhodes.
Now in this particular text, I will discuss the structure itself. I.e where it is, what it was used for in the past and so forth. When it comes to the actual inside of the museum and some of the works of art it contains, you will find this in the ‘museums‘ area on the website!
So now we have cleared that up, let’s move on!
The Location Of The Archaeological Museum in Rhodes
Naturally the museum is located in The Medieval City, hence that is why it is part of the Medieval Tour, but as I have mentioned, the Old City is quite a big place. So where do you find it?
Well, if you enter the city via the Liberty Gate (one of The Eleven Gates) you are
presented with two choices. You can either go left and pass under the Gate of The
Arsenal and off towards the harbor, or you can head straight up.
Going straight will take you past The Temple Of Aphrodite (see The Knights Castle) and up towards Argyrokastro Square. As you pass through the archway into the Knights Square, you will see the Archaeological Museum on the right-hand side where The Street Of The Knights begins its journey up to The Grand Masters Palace.
This massive structure remains in almost perfect original condition to this day, making it one of the most meaningful and significant landmarks in all of the Old Town.
What Was Its Purpose?
Many people are not aware of the use of the structure prior to it becoming a museum. It may be surprising for you to learn that it was actually the Hospital of the Knights back during their occupation during the 15th century. Did you know that?
During the presence on the island of The Knights Of Saint John, it was used to give treatment to the travelers from the holy lands and also to the Crusaders.
When Was The Archaeological Museum in Rhodes Built?
The structure of the museum (then to be the hospital) was set about in the year 1440 by the 36th Grand Master De Lastic. He died in 1454 and the structure was eventually completed in 1484 by the Grand Master D’Aubusson in 1484.
General Information
When you enter The Archaeological Museum from the main entrance you will find yourself in a huge courtyard. From here you can be witness to the lion that sits there proud holding the head of Taurus.
As you look at the entrance area, you will see huge arches in place that were once
used as storage areas. Although in my opinion these areas should be left untouched and preserved, they are now used to house tourist and other shopping outlets. It is not such a thing I like to see in an old medieval structure like this, but hey, this is the way things are these days.
You can access the upper floor of the museum by using the giant huge stone stairs which are situated in the North East corner of the courtyard.
There are different rooms on this floor where you will find lots of artifacts and ancient findings. Like I say, I will discuss all these in the ‘Museums Area’.
One thing to point out here though, is on the East Wing of the upper floor there is a large hall. This hall was home to the patients ward of the building when it was in use as a hospital all them years ago. You will also find in this area exhibited tombstones. These are for the various Knights and their Coat of Arms.
Opening Times Of The Archaeological Museum in Rhodes
You will find during the summer that the opening times are quite flexible. It certainly gives you enough time to see everything and at a great price too.
The museum is open every day from 8 am until 19.30 pm except Mondays, when it is open from 13.30 until 19.30
The price for entrance is 3 Euros. A good price in my opinion. Being able to see all of the ancient pieces for such a low price is a complete bargain. I remember visiting The British Museum in London, and it cost me a lot more than that!
See The Video For A Good Look Inside The Museum & Its Displays
Overall
Have you visited this amazing place in Rhodes? Have you experienced walking around the old halls looking at some of the amazing historic artifacts on display here?
If not, you are really missing out.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this, and if you have been lucky enough to see it for yourself, I would love your opinions!
Just leave me a comment below and I will get back to you.
Learn More About The Medieval City In Rhodes. Click From Below To Continue.
Hi Chris,
I really enjoyed reading your post!
Admittedly, I don’t know too much about Rhodes, but your article has whet my appetite to learn more about this historic island and to visit. I love history, and to see and learn about structures built centuries ago is awesome.
I visited Prague just after the wall fell, and I was told that the old town was one of the few not damaged during WW2.
The original buildings were completely intact. It was impressive.
Thanks for sharing!
Norman
Yes Norman, if you like history then you will love Rhodes without a doubt.
The museums hold a lot of artifacts to interest you, and the ancient ruins and some of the structures here are breathtaking.
Some of the places here were hit hard during the war, so a lot of restorations have been needed. Although some of the places are ancient ruins, there is a lot still very active. The Medieval City for example is fully operational and this is where you will find the museum.
Glad that this wet your appetite Norman. I hope to see you here soon.
Thanks
Chris
I love reading your posts, it is like traveling back in time.
It is very cool that this museum was used as a hospital for The Knights Of Saint John. Where do you get all the facts?
I love the Lion statue too. It reminds me of an owl and a lion.
Thanks for the awesome pictures.
Hello Michael and thanks for reading.
Sometimes I wish I could go back in time like you mention here. To see what things were like centuries ago and witness The Knights Order in all its glory. They must have been fascinating times.
This museum was indeed used as a hospital for The Knights Hospitaller. These facts are well documented here.
To be honest, living here makes it easy to find all the information. I have spoken to a lot of people and tour guides who know the island’s history from top to bottom! This with a lot of interest in the subject makes it a very easy process for me!
I wanted to ask, then you talk about the statue of the Lion, where do you get the impression of the Owl from? I have seen this photo and never seen what you see. On saying that, I just took another look, and I presume you mean the hair/fur all around the face? I’m just curious 🙂
Thanks Michael!
Chris
Hey Chris, I really like your site!
You seem to have a lot of information and passion for Rhodes and these details on The Archaeological Museum are great..
I have never been, although a few years ago I did visit Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos. Greece is such a beautiful country.
How often do you visit Rhodes?
I will definitely have to visit one day and check out the Archaeological Museum!
Thanks,
Paola
Hi there Paola, it is really nice to hear from you.
The Archaeological Museum is of course only one of the many sites to see. It is an amazing place and one definitely worth a visit. So if you get the chance, do not pass it up 🙂
When you visited this page and had a look around, I think maybe you missed out on the About Me page. If you read this you will see that I actually live on The Island Of Rhodes. I do not need to visit anymore… I am blessed 🙂
I moved here many years ago, and I do not regret any of my decisions to be here 🙂
Be sure to read more there and you will get a lot more of my story and why I ended up here!
Thanks again Paola, hope to see you here soon.
Chris
Your post is so informative.
I have never been to the archaeological museum in Rhodes unfortunately. I hope to go one day, but in case I don’t get the chance, I feel like I got a really good sense of it from the pictures and the information you provided.
I will definitely check out your post on the individual exhibits as well.
How many times have you been? Do you get sick of it or do you get something new out of the visit each time?
Thanks!
Hello Amy.
I am happy you got a lot out of the information I have provided here.
But hey, never say never. The world is a small place these days, so if you ever have the chance to visit Rhodes, then you would really enjoy it.
There is a lot to see when it comes to history and culture, and The Archaeological Museum is just one of them.
I have been around this Museum many times. Of course I have been around alone, but when my friends visit me, they always want a taste of what the island has to offer. With this, I have accompanied them on their visits too.
I do see something new every time. I never consider this a place to become bored. Just the structure in itself is awesome. It is a pleasure to walk around 🙂
There is so much to see and appreciate, I think I would still see something new even after 100 visits.
I hope you manage to see it for yourself one day 🙂
Thanks Amy.
Chris
Good afternoon Chris,
Thank you for replying to my comment.
Yes, life can be hard working on a ship. I repeated the experience working for a German company which had a Russian cruise ship under full charter. The good thing about working on a ship is you get to see places but of course never under the same conditions as a passenger.
In 2011 I was a passenger on a Carribean cruise and I absolutely loved it.
I would love to visit the Greek islands again but this time as a tourist to be able to enjoy all the great places your country has to offer.
Regards, Taetske
Thanks for coming back Taetske 🙂
Yeah life on board a cruise ship is hard work for sure. It is work that can often be overlooked too by the passengers. When you do not see what is going on behind the scenes, a lot can be taken for granted.
It is great you managed to get your experience on board as a passenger too though. I have never been to the Caribbean, but I would love to see it.
I will admit, being on a cruise ship for long periods is something I would not go for. OK yes, you are right, you do get to see places, but not in detail or for as long as you would like… before you know it you are on board again and you are whisked off somewhere else 🙂
Lets hope you get back to the Greek Islands again my friend. If you ever pass by Rhodes I am here. I will happily buy you a nice cold beer 🙂
Thanks
Chris
Good evening Chris,
Your website took me on a trip, I love traveling, and it woke up some memories from when I was a bit younger.
Now I have to confess I have been to Rhodes but did not visit the nice and interesting places you talk about here.
In 1973 I worked for 3 months on a Greek cruise ship. The captain was absolutely awful and I was a frightened 23 year old. To tell you all that happened during those 3 months would fill a book, but I landed in Rhodes at 05.00 in the morning to take a small boat to Mykonos.
From there I needed take a small plane to get back to Piraeus before my cruise ship would leave at 16.00.
Because of a storm though, the little plane did not leave as scheduled and I was waiting for hours until it finally left around 13.30. In the end, I did not go back to my job on the cruise ship.
Now, many years later I am happy to have been able to visit the lovely island of Rhodes in a more peaceful way. I am sure many people will agree with me that your website provides a great trip.
Regards, Taetske
Hello there Taetske and thanks for sharing your story here.
I know a lot of people who work (and have worked) on the cruise ships. Of course we are talking many years after your experience, but a lot of the people I know are not satisfied with the conditions they have to encounter.
You do not get much time to yourself and yes, some of the higher ranking staff can make your life difficult. I am only going with what I am told though. It was enough to put me off for sure 🙂
This is the problem with the cruise liners that come in too. Rhodes has so much history (as do some of the other Greek Islands) but the boats only stop for a short time.
Like you say, the dock at sometimes 0500 and leave again around 1600. It is not enough time for the people to see what they need to see. I guess they have to keep schedules though right?
It would not be my favorite way to enjoy a vacation anyway!
After saying that, after all your experience, it is great that you have managed to visit the island of Rhodes again under better circumstances. Next time you visit, be sure to look me up and I will buy you a drink 🙂
Thanks once again Taetske, really nice to hear from you.
Chris
Wow great article Chris!
I have never been to Greece but I have always been interested in classic architecture and historic destinations.
Is there a particular time of the year where it’s not good to visit this place (i.e. the weather isn’t the best, etc?) and if I only had limited time to look around, you mentioned 3 hours would be best.
What are the particular highlights that are a “must see” in the Archaeological museum in Rhodes?
Hey there Cesar, great to meet you. Hope you re doing fine and thanks for reading.
When it comes to considering times to visit Rhodes it all depends on your personal taste.
Some people prefer the hot weather, others not so much. Some people may find it too hot during the summer months to look around the sites, others may love it.
You can read more here on The Climate Of Rhodes. If you also look at the comments section here, many people have asked questions similar to yours, so maybe you can seek some guidance from here 🙂
To be honest, all of the Museum is a highlight. I could not recommend one area over another at all. All areas are really interesting and you can see and learn so much. If you manage to visit, it would be a shame not to make a full tour.
Like I say, if you have 3 hours, you can pretty much see it all.
Hope this answers your questions Cesar. If not, you know where to find me 🙂
Thanks
Chris
The island of Rhodes seems to be a must place to visit. One of the most beautiful islands in Greece from what I see here for sure.
Greece has lots of antiquities to display and a great history. Usually, the entrance fee is quite reasonable for these places too. I live in Athens so I know something of what you are talking about.
Even the Acropolis museum is quite a bargain here in Athens although I don’t remember exactly the price. Maybe the attractions there are about the same.
Truth is I haven’t visited Rhodes, but I plan to in the future! It seems a shame to miss out on it when I live only across the water!
John
Hi there John. Nice to hear from you.
It is indeed a shame that you have never been able to visit Rhodes when you are so close.
I have been to Athens too and I really loved it.
I remember visiting the Acropolis in Athens and if my memory serves me correctly, I think it was about 15 euros for the entrance fees, but it was for all of the sites. Very much worth it in my opinion.
The last time I looked, The Archaeological Museum here in Rhodes was just 3 Euros for the entrance fee. An absolute bargain don’t you think?
Make sure you get over here and experience Rhodes. You are only 40 minutes away by plane 🙂
Thanks John, nice to meet you!
Chris
Hey Chris,
Thanks for writing such a detailed article about the Archaeological Museum!
I wanted to plan a visit to Rhodes during Spring next year but I needed more information about it, that’s where I came across your web page.
After reading this, I am all pumped up and excited to go there this instant. I always had a soft spot for ancient historical buildings!
I will come back to your site again to check out on more great tourism spots!
Hey there Wilson, great to have you here.
Thanks for taking the time to read the material here. I am of course happy you found it all to be of interest.
If you are a lover of history and old architecture, then you will love it here in Rhodes.
The Archaeological Museum has some fine examples of the island’s history and believe me, that is just the tip of the iceberg. Where ever you visit on this amazing island there is something amazing to see.
Don’t forget too, that running adjacent to this Archaeological Museum lies The Street Of The Knights which runs up to meet the breathtaking Grand Masters Palace in all its glory. Something that should not be missed 🙂
If you manage your Springtime visit Wilson, be sure to let me know. I will be happy to help you out. In the meantime there is a lot more coming on my website, so stay tuned 🙂
Thanks
Chris
What an educational article! The Archaeological Museum In Rhodes seems to be quite an amazing place to visit.
I am also amazed with the construction of this building, and the fact that it still stands.
I am planning a trip to Greece for next year and I want to add this to my itinerary, the history of this place fascinates me!
First as a hospital through the Crusades, now as a present day museum.
Can you tell me more about other uses it has had through out its life span?
Brendon
Hello there Brendon, thank you for getting in contact.
The Archaeological Museum is indeed a fascinating place. It is in a beautiful setting and because of the history of the building it adds to the excitement of visiting.
The structure was constructed between 1440 and 1489 and was used as the Knights Hospital. Of course the Knights have long departed and now it is home for the museum. In answer to your question, I am not aware of any other uses that the structure has had.
On saying that, I am going to look into it and ask some questions to see if I can find out any more. If I do, I will let you know.
Thanks Brendon!
Chris
This looks so cool, and I would really like to visit it one day.
We went to Athens a good few years ago now, and the old structures are just amazing.
I agree with you about the gift shops! It’s a shame that all these places seem to have them these days, but you are right that it’s just the way it is now.
I couldn’t believe the entry price to this is only 3 Euros, that really is a bargain!
Hey Mara… hope you are okay and thank you for leaving your thoughts 🙂
I have also been to Athens. It really is an amazing place isn’t it? When I was there I was simply mesmerized by it’s beauty. I love Rhodes, too much in fact, but I did not want to leave Athens at the time! 🙂
It does seem to be a universal thing now though Mara unfortunately, all of these really historic places are filled with tourist shops and business outlets. Hey look, I know why they do it, the world is governed by money these days, but it is a tragedy that all these old places lose their ambiance because of it!
But yes, the way of the world. It is sad, but I do not suppose it can ever be changed. Life goes on.
As for the museum, you are quite right to agree with me. 3 Euros is nothing to be able to see the history it has to offer. An amazing place and well worth a visit if you are in Rhodes!
Thanks Mara, and great to hear from you!
Chris
Hey Chris! Steve here again
I seriously can not wait for my honeymoon with my fiance. We’re planning on taking a trip to Italy, specifics haven’t been worked out yet, but the archaeological museum in Rhodes looks amazing.
The whole Island of Rhodes looks like a very beautiful place to visit. How’s the weather, does it get really hot there? Just so I know when to plan my a trip with my fiance.
Best of luck to you and thank you very much for sharing this article.
Keep up the great work!
Hello again Steve and thanks for your visit once more 🙂
It is great you are going to be visiting Italy. I was there 4 years ago for 3 months. I stayed in the North in an area called Biella. A Very beautiful place with amazing mountain scenery. Where will you be staying?
I see you asked about the weather, and of course the temperatures change depending on the time of season you come. I have prepared a page of information on this as it is quite a popular question to be asked. If you take a look at The Climate Of Rhodes page, I think it will answer all your questions.
I hope this helps
Thanks again Steve, and hope to see you and your Fiance here soon!
Chris
Hey Chris!
First of all i’m from Greece, so every time i read a post about it, it makes me feel honored.
Secondly, your article is very informative for someone who wants to visit the museum and gives some information which is important (like the entrance price, what was the building’s purpose before, etc.).
Keep up the good work!
Hi Antonis, great to hear from you. Where in Greece are you located?
Yes, for his information on The Archaeological Museum, I think it was important for me to highlight some of the areas such as information on its history.
Aside from everything else too, one of the most frequently asked questions is ‘how much does cost’? 🙂 When it comes to people needing to spend money the attention span opens a little, so it was important for me to mention this so people know!
Personally I think the price is really good for the entrance free, don’t you? I know a lot of other museums worldwide can charge a lot more than the asking price here in Rhodes.
Thanks for passing by Antonis, and if you are ever in Rhodes let me know 🙂
Chris
You know, I had never thought much of, or had much use for that matter for museums, until I started covering some really interesting places with my son while homeschooling.
I find that I truly like museums such as this one, where the building and all that it encompasses is complete history.
The architecture, the history, and everything else you mention really has made me want to visit.
I have certainly added Rhodes to my bucket list after stumbling on your website.
How long do you think it takes to tour the entire museum and all associated buildings?
Hey there once again, nice to see you back!
The Archaeological Museum in Rhodes for sure is full of history, right to its very foundations. i mean it was built by The Knights Of Saint John, so what more can be said. 500 years staring you right in the face with only this structure 🙂
As for touring around the museum, I have been around on more than one occasion, but in my opinion, to have a good look and digest/appreciate everything that is there, I would say up to 3 hours is a safe figure.
Of course people do it in less time, and people can also be longer, but for me it was around this time frame, and I had a damn good look 🙂
If you need anything more let me know. And if you get some plans for a vacation that includes The Island Of Rhodes, tell me, and I will make sure you have all the information you need 🙂
Thanks
Chris
Hi Chris,
Wow I absolutely loved your site. So filled up with history and amazing photographs. Lucky you if you were the one who took them and congratulations on their quality. They made me feel as if I was actually there.
The amount of information included in all of the articles was great. Despite the amount of information, the images and formatting ensured that it wasn’t overwhelming.
Your passion for the area is evident in the way you write about them. The depth of your knowledge is easy to see and share. For anyone wanting to visit the island, it would definitely provide a good introduction.
Your writing style is clean, concise and easy to read. Thank you for sharing something that is so obviously an important part of Greece.
Wow thanks, a nice compliment on my work there.. I am happy you found it interesting and enjoyable to read!
I think Greece holds such importance in the world when it comes to history, and living here in all honesty is a blessing. I love being here and I love what it has to offer. There is so much to see and do it is impossible to find a day that is boring!
A lot of the images are my own yes, although I will admit freely not all. Some of them I have sourced from others to get the best effect. I try to use my own as much as possible though to give the site a true authentic feeling.
Thanks for reading and thanks again for your kind words!
Chris
I have been to Greece several times as I have a Greek friend (he is from Orestiada). I haven’t yet been to The Island of Rhodes but I have heard a lot about it from my Greek friend and we plan to visit it in one of our next trips.
He told me it is one of the most beautiful Islands in Greece and if I am not mistaken there was some movie filmed there (Mamma Mia?).
I will for sure check your blog to note the places we should visit. There are so many nice and noble places in Greece and each time I go to Greece I get surprised about the majesty of this beautiful country.
Hello there Arta and thanks so much for your interest.
Orestiada eh? It is very far from me here in Rhodes. If I am not mistaken your friend lives on the border with Turkey am I right?
Your friend would be right in telling you that Rhodes is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece. He has it right for sure 🙂 and so much so, millions of people visit the island every year to see what it has to offer. So make sure you and your friend are on that list soon 🙂
The movie Mamma Mia was not actually filmed in Rhodes, but on the island of Skopelos. It is an island North of Athens where as Rhodes is to the East. I would say that the two islands sit around 450 to 500 km apart, approximately 🙂
The one movie that is noted for being made here was The Guns Of Navarone. This film was made here in the early 1960s!
Thanks Arta and hopefully speak to you again soon 🙂
Chris