The Knights’ Castle
The Knights’ Castle is located at the northeastern part of the island, at the top of Agios Nikolaos Hill, built on the foundations of an older, possibly Hellenistic, wall. It was founded by the knights of the Order of Saint John in the mid-14th century and lasted until it surrendered to the Ottomans in 1522, after the fall of Rhodes. It is accessible via a path that ascends from the Church of Panagia in Chorio. The climb is slightly steep, but it takes no more than 20 minutes.
At the entrance of the castle, you can see the integrated coat of arms of the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John, Pierre d’Aubusson. The Church of Agios Nikolaos is still preserved within the walls, with frescoes from the 15th and 17th centuries. During the years it was used, the castle had visual contact with the “fryctoria” tower (a communication tower) at the westernmost tip of the island, at Cape Kefali. When necessary, it would send signals to the “viglatores” (watchmen) of Rhodes.
