Palace of the Grand Master

Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes is a historical landmark located in the medieval old town of Rhodes, Greece. It was originally built in the 14th century by the Knights of Rhodes, who were a medieval Christian military order. The palace served as the residence of the Grand Master, the highest official of the Knights Hospitaller.

The original mansion was badly damaged in 1856 when an ammunition explosion occurred. Later, during the Italian occupation of Rhodes in the early 20th century, the Italians rebuilt the palace on the basis of medieval architectural elements. Today it represents a testimony of the medieval history of Rhodes.

The Grand Master’s Palace is known for its impressive architecture, including Gothic and Renaissance features. Visitors can explore its grand halls, courtyards, and exhibits displaying medieval furniture, artwork, and historic artifacts. The palace also offers panoramic views of the historic center and the surrounding area.

The Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes hosts various exhibitions highlighting the history and culture of the island. Specific exhibits may change over time, so it’s a good idea to check for the latest information before visiting. Here are some examples of the types of exhibitions held at the palace:

Medieval Artifacts: the palace displays a collection of medieval artifacts, including weapons, armor, and religious artifacts, providing insights into the life and culture of the Knights of Rhodes.

Byzantine and Ottoman art: some exhibits focus on the Byzantine and Ottoman periods in the history of Rhodes. They may display religious icons, pottery, textiles and other art from these eras.

Historic Interior: the palace itself features well-preserved rooms representing different historical periods. These rooms are often decorated with period furniture, tapestries and works of art, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of past centuries.

Archaeological Finds: Rhodes has a rich archaeological heritage and the palace occasionally hosts exhibitions featuring archaeological discoveries of the island and surrounding areas. These exhibits may include pottery, sculpture and other artifacts from ancient times.

Temporary exhibitions: the palace can also host temporary exhibitions focusing on specific themes, such as local folklore, traditional crafts or contemporary art. These exhibitions offer the opportunity to explore different aspects of Rhodian culture and artistic expressions.

It’s worth noting that the exhibits and displays may vary depending on the time of visit, as new exhibits are curated and old ones may be replaced. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date information on current exhibitions at the Grand Master’s Palace in Rhodes.