Lindos Acropolis

Lindos Acropolis, tucked away on the sunlit shores of Rhodes, Greece, is like your nan’s attic – but instead of moth-eaten frocks and dusty tomes, you’ve got millennia-old artefacts and stunning vistas. Fancy a little time travel? Well, this ancient citadel, erected around the 6th century BC, is your ticket to Grecian yesteryears.

For starters, the Temple of Athena Lindia is an absolute showstopper. Standing tall since the 4th century BC, this Doric temple has seen emperors come and go but still whispers tales of divine epics and heroics. Then, there’s the medieval castle of the Knights of St John. If walls could chat, this one would regale you with tales of chivalry and conquests, probably over a pint or two.

But it’s not all just brick and mortar. The view from atop is what I’d call the cherry on the sundae. Gaze below, and the shimmering blue waters will give you a wink, while the whitewashed Lindos Village looks like a snow globe scene come to life.

If ticking off the top things to do is your jam, Lindos Acropolis is a must-visit. Not just for history buffs, but for anyone with a bit of wanderlust and an appetite for enchanting stories. So, why not give it a whirl? After all, the past, as they say, is a different country. And this one doesn’t even need a visa!

While most travellers flock to the Greek island of Rhodes for its sun-kissed beaches and azure waters, history enthusiasts like me know the real treasures beyond the shore. If you’re looking for ancient sites to tick off your Rhodes bucket list, there’s no place like the Lindos Acropolis.

Tucked away in the charming town of Lindos, the Lindos Acropolis sits atop a steep hill like an old sage overseeing the town’s day-to-day antics. First, let me clarify a common point of confusion – the Lindos Acropolis is not to be mixed up with the Acropolis of Rhodes. That’s an entirely different kettle of fish and a story on another page.Today, it’s all about the Lindos Acropolis. 

So, who had the brilliant idea to build the Lindos Acropolis? The ancient Dorians deserve a round of applause here. These folks arrived in Rhodes around the 10th century BC and, spotting the potential of Lindos, decided to set up shop and erect this architectural wonder. There’s a rumour in the ancient grapevine that these Dorians were show-offs. 

And looking at the Lindos Acropolis, I’m starting to believe it. Why did they build it? The primary purpose was for defence. You see, with an elevated view of the sea, it was the perfect spot to keep a lookout for pesky pirates or invaders trying to crash the Lindos party.

Walking up the hill to the Lindos Acropolis can be a calf workout, but who needs the gym when you have ancient sites like this to explore? The panoramic view is nothing short of spectacular once you reach the top and catch your breath. Lindos town on one side, and the vast expanse of the shimmering Aegean on the other – it’s enough to make anyone go, “Cor blimey, that’s a bit alright.”

But let’s not get too carried away with the views; there’s a lot to see atop this hill. The Hellenistic Stoa, with its 42 columns, stands proud as a testament to ancient architecture. Then, there’s the Byzantine church of St. John, adding a touch of divine grace to the Acropolis. And let’s not forget the Castle of the Knights of St. John, which gives the place an added layer of medieval charisma. If walls could talk, these would have millennia worth of stories to tell.

Lindos Acropolis’ Brush with the Silver Screen
Pop quiz: What do the Lindos Acropolis and Hollywood have in common? It’s not a trick question, nor is it some elaborate riddle. It’s “Escape to Athena.” That’s right, this 1979 war adventure film didn’t just zoom into the theatres; it brought the enchanting allure of the Lindos Acropolis to the big screen. Suddenly, this ancient structure wasn’t just a historic marvel – it was a movie star in its own right.

Now, if you’re pondering a visit to the Lindos Acropolis just to tread the same grounds as Roger Moore or Telly Savalas, no one’s judging. After all, the movie might be a blast from the past, but the cinematic magic still lingers. You might not find hidden gold or embark on a thrilling adventure like in ‘Escape to Athena’, but you’ll feel a sense of drama. Just remember, no epic chase scenes or dodging imaginary bullets, please.

Although wandering around the Lindos Acropolis is one of the top things to do on Rhodes, there’s much more to do. So, let me point you towards three other things to do on the island you may be interested in:

Acropolis of Rhodes
Perched on the highest part of the city, the Acropolis of Rhodes is like that other cousin who’s also quite dashing, just in a subtler way. If walls could talk, these would tell you stories of ages past, with drama fit for a Netflix special. Stroll around and let the whispers of ancient amphitheatres and temples tickle your ears.

Ancient Kamiros
Sometimes referred to as the Pompeii of Rhodes, Kamiros is a “blast from the past” without the actual volcanic eruption. This age-old city gives a glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Rhodesians. 

Lindos Village
If the Lindos Acropolis is the show-stopping main act, then Lindos Village is the encore everyone begs for. Quaint cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and local tavernas serve dishes that make your taste buds go nuts. 

Stepping into the Lindos Acropolis is like unearthing a treasure trove of stories and sceneries. Each nook and cranny feels like it’s just waiting to share its age-old tales. From captivating structures of historical significance to breathtaking views that’ll have you rummaging for your camera, there’s a myriad of experiences waiting for you.

Temple of Athena Lindia

Imagine being surrounded by the remnants of a place where ancient civilisations once paid their respects. With every footstep, you can sense the devotion and reverence that once permeated this sacred temple. The air seems richer, filled with tales of old.

Panoramic Views of Lindos Bay

As you ascend the Lindos Acropolis, there’s a visual treat waiting for you. A vista so grand, it feels like nature’s own IMAX theatre. The shimmering waters of Lindos Bay, juxtaposed with the quaint town, offer a panorama that’s worth every step taken.

Stairway to the Past at Lindos Acropolis

The very steps you tread are soaked in history. Climbing up these ancient stairways is more than just a physical endeavour; it’s an emotional journey too. Each step echoes with the footfalls of those who walked here thousands of years ago.

So, as you wander, let the Lindos Acropolis captivate your senses, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll hear history whisper its secrets.

Picture this: You’re at the Lindos Acropolis with a trusty mobile phone, a backdrop of ancient wonder, and the desire to capture memories that’ll make you grin for years. Now, while the entire site is photogenic, some spots are just…well, more “ooh-la-la” than others. Here’s my guide to the best places to snap away and capture that perfect Instagram shot.

Temple of Athena Lindia

The ancient stones and intricate design are a photographer’s dream. Bathed in the glow of the setting sun, the temple turns into an ethereal structure. Capture wide shots, silhouettes, or even the detailed carvings for a unique perspective.

Views from the Highest Point

The vantage point from atop the Acropolis offers a stunning panorama of Lindos Bay. As the cerulean waters glisten below, frame a shot with the temple in the foreground. The blend of nature and history creates a harmonious balance.

Doric Columns at the Stoa

These towering pillars, remnants of an era gone by, create fascinating patterns, especially when casting shadows. Shooting them in a linear perspective can lead to dynamic and compelling compositions, enhancing the depth and drama.

Ancient Stairways

Never underestimate the beauty of simplicity. The worn steps of the Acropolis tell tales of centuries gone by. Get a low-angle shot to capture the depth or focus on the details of the weathered stone. It might just be your next perfect Instagram photo.

Remember, the best places to take photos are often where you feel the story. So, let Lindos Acropolis narrate its tale, and you frame it.

Have you ever found yourself at an ancient site, armed with anticipation but short on knowledge? Yep, been there! Here’s my round-up of top travel tips I wish I’d had up my sleeve before stepping foot onto the timeless ground of the Lindos Acropolis.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon
Trust me on this one; the Greek sun doesn’t play around. Visiting during cooler times spares you from sunburn and offers a softer light for those epic photos.

Pack light but smart
Lugging a massive backpack? Rookie mistake. However, do throw in a water bottle, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and comfortable shoes. You’ll be traipsing over ancient grounds, after all.

Dive into a bit of pre-visit research
A smidge of knowledge can transform mere stones into storytelling artefacts. Before you go, delve into a bit of history. Understanding the significance of what you’re looking at makes for a richer experience.

Respect the ground beneath your feet
We’re walking through history here! Stick to the paths, avoid touching ancient structures, and be gentle. Let’s ensure this wonder stands tall for another millennium.

Mind the local customs
Greek culture is rich and inviting. A friendly smile, a courteous ‘thank you’ in Greek (it’s ‘efharisto’ by the way), and respect for local norms go a long way.

Lastly, soak in the moment. Beyond the best travel tips and guidebook must-dos, the magic often lies in the unexpected, unplanned moments. As the breeze ruffles your hair and ancient tales echo in your ears, let the Lindos Acropolis leave an indelible mark on your traveller’s heart.

Let’s chat about wheels, walking sticks, and wanderlust. So, you’ve got Rhodes on your radar and Lindos Acropolis twinkling in your eyes. But wait a minute, you’re probably pondering, “Can I waltz, or rather wheel, up that ancient hill?” Well, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of accessing the Lindos Acropolis for those who have disabilities and/or impairments.

First, it’s no secret that ancient Greeks weren’t big on ramps and lifts. Perhaps they were too busy inventing democracy and philosophy to consider wheelchair access. However, modern-day Lindos, bless its cotton socks, has made strides to accommodate everyone.

Although steep, the main path leading up to Lindos Acropolis is somewhat smoothed out and offers a more manageable gradient for those with mobility impairments. While it’s not exactly the M25 motorway, with a sturdy wheelchair and a bit of gusto, it’s doable. If you’ve got an electric wheelchair, you’ll probably feel like a gladiator conquering ancient terrains, with a bit less sweat and drama.

That being said, some areas atop the Acropolis remain a challenge. Uneven surfaces and the odd ancient stairway might play hard to get. But don’t be disheartened! While you might not be able to access every nook and cranny, the panoramic views, historical charm, and the sheer aura of the place are accessible to all.