Characteristics of Apollona

Apollona is one of the larger villages in the Rhodian interior, currently with a population of around 1,000 inhabitants and very extensive agricultural land including fields, olive groves and vineyards. Most of the inhabitants work in agriculture, with a long tradition of olive growing and the village is also known for its herbs and excellent wine from the surrounding mountains.

The village of Apollona is situated on a hillside and is surrounded by the local mountains. Nearby are the smaller inland villages of Salakos, Dimilia, Platania and Eleousa.

Monuments in the village of Apollona

The village got its name from the temple of the god Apollo, which once stood here and whose ruins can be seen today. In his time, the god Apollo was the protector of the island of Rhodes and for the locals he was especially the god of fine arts. On the site of the ancient temple today stands the Church of the Holy Cross with its beautiful pebbled courtyard and magnificent hagiographies. Every year on September 14, a great celebration in honour of St. Stavros is held here.

If you visit the village of Apollon, you should definitely check out the local Folklore Museum, which is located near the church. The museum in Apollona has an incredible collection of all sorts of period objects that you won't see anywhere else on the island - from everyday objects and traditional women's clothing, to typical agricultural and rural tools and implements, to unique ancient objects such as an old olive press, sarcophagi and medieval tombstones.

More tourist tips

If you come here at lunchtime, we recommend sitting in one of the local "flower" taverns. A very pleasant experience. From the village you can then take a walk to the Profitis Ilias mountain, where a walking trail leads, but a bit more challenging (it takes about 1,5 hours). Towards the neighbouring village of Embonas, the pretty white Byzantine church of Moni Kariona stands about 2 km from Apollona.

More touristic destinations of Rhodes

Close resorts: Archipolis, Eleousa, Platania, Salakos

Most favourite resorts of Rhodes: Afandou, Archangelos, Faliraki, Ialyssos, Ixia, Kalithea, Kiotari, Kolymbia, Koskinou (Reni Koskinou), Lardos, Lindos, Rhodes (city)

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Rhodes.