The palace was heavily damaged by a massive gunpowder explosion in 1856, which leveled much of the original medieval structure.
The floor mosaics currently on display were brought from the island of Kos by the Italian authorities to decorate the restored halls.
The restoration project aimed to create a summer residence for King Victor Emmanuel III and later Benito Mussolini, though neither resided there permanently.
The courtyard features a collection of statues dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
Despite being a medieval-style fortification, many architectural elements were stylized or invented during the 1930s reconstruction to reflect an idealized Gothic aesthetic.
The palace served as a command center for the Knights during the Great Siege of Rhodes in 1522.
The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is a prominent 14th-century fortress located at the highest point of the Medieval City of Rhodes. Originally constructed by the Knights Hospitaller, the current structure is a 1930s reconstruction commissioned by the Italian administration under Cesare Maria De Vecchi. It serves as the primary example of Gothic architecture in Greece, characterized by its imposing towers and crenelated battlements. The interior houses an extensive collection of ancient mosaics relocated from the island of Kos during the early 20th century. Visitors can walk through large ceremonial halls featuring original medieval fireplaces and ornate 16th-century furniture. The site also functions as a museum displaying artifacts spanning from the Hellenistic to the Byzantine periods. It stands on the foundations of an earlier Byzantine fortress that protected the city's harbor. The palace formerly served as the administrative headquarters for the Order of St. John before falling to the Ottoman Empire.
From the center of the main courtyard, looking up at the stone arches and vaulted ceilings.
Visit the upstairs exhibition galleries first to avoid the afternoon tour group bottleneck.
Wear shoes with good grip, as the original stone floors and outdoor paving are worn and can be slippery.
Check the official website for information on combined tickets that include access to other Archaeological Museum sites.
Do not attempt to navigate the cobblestone streets of the Old Town with heavy luggage or strollers.
Open daily; closed on major public holidays.
Respect the 'no flash photography' rules within the interior galleries; dress modestly as it is a historical and cultural site.
