The Medieval City of Rhodes does not simply comprise one of the greatest highlights of the island but it also represents one of the most important Monuments of World Cultural Heritage according to UNESCO.

In order to enter the medieval part of the Old City of Rhodes, one has as many as...ten alternative options. In the past, there were certainly more Gates, but nowadays we are left with an outstanding “Top 10” preserved in perfect condition, which is worth reading and knowing about.

Marine Gate:

It is the best known Gate but also the main entrance that the majority of people use in order to enter the Old City. It is found right opposite the Cologne and it was constructed between 1477-78 by Grand Master d'Aubusson. Its facade is admired for its magnificent icons of St. John, Apostle Peter and Virgin Mary. The Knights used to call it "Porta Marina".

Gate of the Virgin:

It was constructed after the Knights era from the town Mayor back then -F. Fotaras- and you will find it 200 meters away from the Marine Gate. Its main purpose was to further facilitate the mobility of citizens in and out of the Old Town. It took its name after Virgin of the Burgh to which church it also leads. 

Gate of Saint Catherine: The Gate of St Catherine is one of the smallest Gates but with a great history streaming from the Conquest of 1480. It is found in front of the Church of St. Panteleimonas and its exit takes us easily to the harbour. 

Acandia Gate:

It is the Gate that leads to the area of Acandia from the Old Town. You may also hear people referring to it as Gate Cova or Lagganis Gate. 

Gate of Saint John:

In the past it used to make exit towards the village of Koshkinou and this is why some refer to it as "Gate Koshkinou". Its current name derives from the little church of St. John which one comes across when using the gate.

Gate of Saint Athanasios:

This particular gate is located opposite the church of St. Frangiskos and takes its name from the surrounding area. This gate remained out of service for many years and the locals nowadays still call it the "New Gate" as it reopened in 1922 by the Italian administration.

Gate d’Amboise:

This Gate was constructed by Grand Master d'Aubusson at the beginnig of 16th century. There is a small bridge at its entrance and story tellers from the past, mention that the Gate used to shut every night and reopen in the morning. 

Liberty Gate: If you find yourself walking from the area of Mandraki towards the Old Town, you will find Liberty Gate which was constructed in 1924 by an Italian administrator named Mario Laggo. After the emancipation of the Dodecanese islands on March 31st 1947, the gate was renamed "Gate of Freedom of Rhodians". 

Gate of St. Paul:

We find this gate left of Liberty Gate. Its towers are engraved with magnificent sculptures of Popes as well as blasons of Grand Masters.

Gate of the Arsenal: It facilitates mobility of people and vehicles towards the island's harbour but also to the old Italian shipyards.  

From: Eva Kanellopoulos

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