Lindos Village
Lindos Village
Although the Greek island of Rhodes is a treasure trove of beauty and history, for me, there’s one spot that stands out like a diamond in a jeweller’s showcase: the Lindos Village.
Nestled on the eastern coast of Rhodes, Lindos is not just any ordinary village. It’s like stepping into a time machine and being transported back to ancient Greece. But before we dive deep into the wonders of Lindos, let’s get a bit of geography out of the way. For those who are a tad rusty on their map-reading skills, Lindos is situated about 50 kilometres south of the island’s capital, Rhodes Town. So, if you’re on Rhodes and haven’t made your way to Lindos, you’re missing out on a big chunk of the island’s charm.
Now, Lindos isn’t just known as “that pretty village on Rhodes”. Oh no, it has a few other monikers up its sleeve. Some call it Lindos Town, while others refer to it as Lindos Greece, especially when they’re trying to show off their holiday snaps to friends who are clueless about Greek geography.
There’s a lovely rich history to Lindos. It was founded by the Dorians in the 10th century BC. Yes, you read that right. We’re talking about a time when the concept of a ‘selfie’ would have been as alien as a smartphone itself. The Dorians, being the ambitious lot they were, decided to set up shop in Lindos because of its strategic location. Overlooking a beautiful bay, the village was perfect for trade, defence, and, of course, enjoying the stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
But who exactly were these Dorians? Well, they were one of the ancient Greek tribes and had a knack for architecture and city planning. The Lindos Village is a testament to their genius. The narrow, winding streets, the whitewashed houses, and the ancient Lindos Acropolis perched high above the town are all hallmarks of Dorian craftsmanship.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Enough of the history lesson! What are the top things to do in Rhodes, specifically in Lindos?”
Firstly, no trip to Lindos is complete without a visit to the Acropolis of Lindos. This ancient citadel has seen more history than your grandma’s photo album. With panoramic views of Lindos and Rhodes, it’s not just a treat for history buffs but also for those who appreciate a good view. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t?
Next on the list is St. Paul’s Bay. Legend has it that the Apostle Paul once dropped anchor here. Today, it’s a serene spot with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip or a lazy afternoon. If Paul had Instagram back in the day, you can bet he’d be snapping away here.
In conclusion, if Rhodes is the crown of the Greek islands, the Village of Lindos is its shining jewel. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a sun-seeker, or just someone looking to experience the best of Lindos and Rhodes, this village will not disappoint.
Rhodes is like that box of assorted chocolates – just when you think you’ve tasted the best one, another flavourful surprise awaits. So, let’s unwrap some more of these delightful experiences, shall we?
Lindos Acropolis
Perched high and mighty, the Lindos Acropolis isn’t just another old ruin. It’s like the grandad of all ruins, telling tales of ancient times while offering views that could make even the most seasoned traveller’s jaw drop. If walls could talk, these would probably say, “Eat your heart out, modern skyscrapers.”
Medieval City of Rhodes
Ever fancied a stroll through time? The Medieval City of Rhodes is your ticket. It’s at the other end of the island. Still, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a maze of history, with every cobblestone echoing tales of knights, battles, and chivalry. It’s a bit like stepping into a Game of Thrones set, minus the dragons and drama.
Street of the Knights of Rhodes
Speaking of knights, they used to hang out at the Street of the Knights of Rhodes, probably discussing knightly things over a pint of medieval ale. Today, it’s one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe. A walk here feels like a friendly joust with history, minus the armour and pointy lances.
Navigating the ancient streets of Lindos might seem like a Herculean task, especially if you’re wheeling around or have specific impairments. But fear not; while Lindos might be old-school in its charm, it’s been brushing up on its modern sensibilities, especially regarding accessibility.
First things first, let’s chat about those iconic cobbled streets. While they’re a treat for the eyes (and a bit of a workout for the calves), they can be challenging for wheels. But here’s the silver lining: many areas in Lindos have been smoothed out to make them more wheelchair-friendly.
Now, onto the main attraction: the Lindos Acropolis. While it’s perched up high, looking all majestic, there’s some good news. There’s a fairly accessible path leading up to it. Granted, it’s not as smooth as a freshly ironed toga, but with a bit of assistance, it’s manageable. And trust me, the views from the top are worth every bit of the effort. It’s like nature’s own IMAX theatre but with better seating.
As for the rest of the village, many shops, restaurants, and cafes have started to embrace the 21st century by installing ramps and widening doorways. It’s as if they’ve realised that everyone deserves a taste of that delicious Greek baklava or a sip of that refreshing ouzo regardless of mobility.
