Old Town Moat

Overview

The dry moat encircling the Old Town's medieval walls offers a unique and peaceful walking route beneath massive fortifications, passing through landscaped gardens, palm trees, and ancient stone bridges.

Highlights

• Fortress Perspective: Walking in the moat gives a unique ground-level view of the scale of the Crusader walls and towers.
• Shaded Walk: Parts of the moat are tree-lined and pleasantly shaded.
• Quiet Escape: Far fewer visitors walk the moat than the streets inside the walls.

History

The dry moat was originally dug and expanded by the Knights of St John as a key defensive feature. Together with the massive walls, it made Rhodes one of the most fortified cities in the medieval Mediterranean. The moat was landscaped during the Italian period.

Visitor Tips

• Access Points: Enter from several gates around the Old Town perimeter.
• Full Circuit: The full walk around takes 30–45 minutes.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.