The gate is named after the chapel of Saint Athanasius which was once located in the immediate vicinity.
It is frequently referred to as the 'Gate of Saint Francis' in some historical records due to its proximity to the church of the same name.
The defensive towers flanking this gate were specifically reinforced following the Great Siege of 1480.
The stonework contains various masonry marks left by the builders, which were used to track payment and identify individual craftsmen.
The surrounding moat system, which the gate overlooks, was kept dry for most of the Hospitaller occupation to enhance the difficulty of scaling the walls.
Saint Athanasios Gate, also known as the Gate of Saint Athanasius, is one of the primary entrances to the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located at the southern section of the fortification walls built by the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem. The gate is flanked by two large, circular defensive towers that served to protect the city against Ottoman sieges. It was historically one of the most heavily defended points of the perimeter. Today, it remains a functional entry point for pedestrians and vehicles entering the Old Town from the modern city districts. The masonry reflects the late Gothic architectural style characteristic of the Hospitaller period. It sits near the boundary where the medieval fortification wall transitions into the modern city layout.
From the exterior moat looking up at the flanking towers during late afternoon for optimal light on the stone facade.
Walk the elevated wall path nearby for a different perspective on the gate's structural defenses.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid heavy vehicle traffic passing through the gate entrance.
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the cobblestones near the gate are uneven and can be slippery.
Do not attempt to drive a rental car through the gate unless you are an authorized guest of a property located inside the walls, as parking is extremely restricted.
