One of Rhodes’ most important historic sites has reopened following an ambitious restoration project that transforms a once-forgotten area into a vibrant open-air museum.
Earlier this month, Culture Minister Lina Mendoni inaugurated the archaeological complex that includes the Hellenistic Neoria (ancient ship sheds), the Medieval Gardens of the Palace of the Grand Master, and a new open-air sculpture gallery in the Pervola area.
Photo: Greek Culture Ministry
For nearly 75 years, the site remained closed to visitors, serving instead as a storage and operational space for archaeological finds. Today, following extensive restoration works, the nearly five-acre area has been converted into a cultural destination at the heart of Rhodes’ Medieval City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The restored complex offers visitors a journey through more than two millennia of history. Archaeological remains and monuments from the Hellenistic, Roman, Medieval, Ottoman and modern periods are now brought together in a single, accessible setting that showcases the island’s continuous historical legacy.
Photo: Greek Culture Ministry
The scale of the restoration was significant. More than 4,000 stone artifacts were identified, over 8,500 architectural and sculptural elements were documented, and nearly 18,000 objects were relocated and organized as part of the project. A highlight of the renewed site is the new open-air sculpture gallery, where around 700 exhibits are now on display. Visitors can also explore the revived Governor’s Gardens, which have been carefully restored and integrated into the wider visitor experience.
Accessibility was a central consideration throughout the redevelopment. The site features wheelchair-friendly pathways, elevators and a tactile model designed for visitors with visual impairments.
Photo: Greek Culture Ministry
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Mendoni said the reopening represents the return of a significant cultural landmark to both residents and visitors. “We are returning to the citizens and visitors of Rhodes a restored and radically upgraded cultural site that encapsulates the island’s history across the centuries,” she said. The minister added that more than 30 cultural heritage projects, with a combined budget exceeding 60 million euros, are currently underway across the Dodecanese. Of these, 13 projects worth more than 35 million euros are being implemented within Rhodes’ Medieval City alone.
