Rhodes - Grand Master's Palace (Knights Castle)

At the west end of the Street of the Knights (Odós Ippotón), on the highest point in the town of Rhodes, is the Grand Master's Palace, a massive stronghold which was defended by a triple circuit of walls. It suffered heavy destruction during the Turkish siege, and was almost completely destroyed by an explosion in 1856, but during the period of Italian occupation (1912-43) was rebuilt on the basis of old plans (commemorative tablet at entrance). The internal arrangement does not, however, follow the original pattern. Notable features of the interior are the many pebble mosaic pavements from the island of Kos.

On the northeast side of the palace are beautiful gardens (entrance in Papagós Street; son et lumière shows in summer). At its southwest corner is the Artillery Gate (St Antony's Gate), which gives access to the town walls.

To the south of the Grand Master's Palace is a striking 19th century clocktower.