The monastery was dedicated to the Virgin of Filerimos, whose icon was said to be painted by Saint Luke.
The original Byzantine church on the site dates back to the 10th or 11th century.
The Knights of St. John fortified the monastery in the 14th century, using it as their primary residence during the siege of 1480.
The path to the cross, known as the Via Crucis, was originally established by Italian Capuchin monks in the 1930s.
The icon of the Virgin of Filerimos was transported to Montenegro and later to Russia after the fall of Rhodes to the Ottomans.
The remains of a Doric fountain from the 4th century BC are located near the monastery entrance.
Filerimos Monastery is a multi-layered historical site located on the summit of Filerimos Hill, approximately 267 meters above sea level on the island of Rhodes. The complex features the 15th-century Gothic Monastery of the Knights of St. John, built over the foundations of an ancient temple to Athena Polias and a subsequent Byzantine church. A notable feature is the 18-meter-high concrete cross erected in the 1990s, replacing an original 1930s structure. The site includes the remains of an early Christian baptistery with a cruciform font. A tree-lined path known as the 'Golgotha' leads from the monastery to the cross, featuring a series of bronze reliefs depicting the Passion of Christ. The surrounding pine forest is inhabited by a large population of semi-tame peacocks. Archaeologists have identified the area as the site of the ancient city of Ialysos. The monastery served as a vital strategic outpost for the Knights Hospitaller during their control of Rhodes.
From the observation deck at the base of the massive cross, which offers a panoramic view of the west coast of Rhodes.
Bring a bottle of water as there are limited facilities on the hill summit.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the uneven stone paths around the monastery ruins and the trail to the cross.
Expect to encounter peacocks that roam freely throughout the grounds; they are accustomed to humans but should not be fed.
Do not attempt to climb the internal ladder of the large cross, as access is restricted for safety reasons.
The site remains open daily, though archaeological areas may experience temporary closures for maintenance or inclement weather.
Modest dress is required for entry into the monastery church; shoulders and knees should be covered.
