Strolling around the “New Town”, Mandraki is a small city port with the statues of the Rhodian deer at its entrance. Legend has it that this is where the massive Colossus of Rhodes once stood. Next to Mandraki, is the marina with the traditional windmills and the Fort of Saint Nicolas. Today the marina is frequented by visiting sailboats and yachts. Around the area, you can admire the impressive buildings of the Italian era of the island, all of which are excellent examples of early 20th century European architecture.
These include the Post Office building, by the Italian architect Florestano di Fausto, the Prefecture of Dodecanese building, formerly known as the Governor’s Palace. You will notice the many different architectural styles and perhaps the resemblance to that of the Doge’s Palace in Venice. Furthermore the Evangelismos Church (Church of the Annunciation), the Town Hall and the National Theatre are a few more buildings that keep the memories of the island’s Italian past alive.
Points of interest:
- Elli beach; at the northern tip of Rhodes town, this cosmopolitan beach is well organised with trendy beach bars and the renowned diving platform that dates back to 1920, called “Trabolino”.
- The Grande Albergo delle Rose; a beautifully renovated, historic building which today operates as the town’s luxurious Casino.
- The Aquarium and the Hydrobiological Station of Rhodes; a historic Art Deco building which is considered a landmark, located at the tip of the island at the north cape. Venture into the cave-designed exhibition halls and see examples of the area’s marine life.
Local insight tip:
Starting from Mandraki port and the marina, walk through Saint Paul’s Gate, which hosts the annual Rhodes Jazz Festival, and admire the remarkable views it offers. Then follow the wooden, coastal pathway to reach the marina’s gate and the main entrance to the Medieval city of Rhodes. It is a highly photogenic 30 minute, scenic walk into the vibrant part of the city.
