Palace of the Grand Master

Overview

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is a massive medieval fortress-palace at the highest point of the Old Town. Originally built in the 7th century as a Byzantine citadel, it was expanded into the seat of the Knights Hospitaller in the 14th century.

Highlights

• Grand Halls: Vaulted chambers with exquisite Hellenistic and Roman mosaic floors brought from Kos by the Italians during reconstruction.
• Medieval Collection: Permanent exhibitions on medieval Rhodes with armour, weapons, icons, and period furnishings.
• Fortress Architecture: Massive crenellated walls and round towers — the palace could shelter the entire Old Town population during sieges.

History

Built as a Byzantine fortress, it became the Grand Master's residence after the Knights Hospitaller took Rhodes in 1309. Severely damaged by an 1856 ammunition explosion, it was reconstructed in the 1930s by the Italian governor as a holiday residence for Mussolini and King Victor Emmanuel III.

Visitor Tips

• Closed Mondays: The palace is closed on Mondays.
• Combined Ticket: A combined ticket covers the palace plus the Archaeological Museum.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.