Where is the village of Eleousa?

Eleousa is a small village, hidden in the forests at the foot of the mountain of Profitis Ilias, in the neighbourhood of the smaller villages of Dimilia, Archipoli and Apollona. Eleousa has a very peaceful and pleasant impression, thanks to the large number of plane trees that grow here, which provide the desired shade and fresh air, especially in summer.

History of Eleousa

The village of Eleousa was originally an Italian settlement called Campochiaro, settled mainly by woodcutters from northern Italy, whose job was to look after the surrounding forests, both for tourism and for the use and processing of the wood itself. In the 1930s, the centre of the village was a rectangular square and the buildings were built around its perimeter.

Many of the buildings built during the Italian rule still stand today, although they may serve different purposes. The largest building, with its arches and small curved balconies was the market and directly opposite was the prison, whose building is serving as a school for local children today. There was also a large sanatorium, which is now very dilapidated, but still very impressive.

An important feature of the village was of course the church of Saint Charalambos, Roman Catholic at the time, now Orthodox. The village had various shops, a school and even a cinema and you also can see the remains of an Italian aqueduct above the village.

More tourist tips in Eleousa - nature and food

The village of Eleousa also boasts lush and unusual nature. On the outskirts of the village you will find a large round tank filled with water from the local Koskinisti-Spring, home to a rare local species of freshwater fish, the Rhodes minnow or Gizani.

Just outside the village, in the embrace of dark green pine trees, stands the pretty Byzantine church of Agios Nikolaos Foundoukli. The church was built in the 14th century and its interior is decorated with unique wall paintings.

Hiking enthusiasts can head to the Profitis Ilias mountain. There is a hiking trail leading up from the village, which is quite challenging in some places.

In addition to the interesting historical and natural sights, tourists are also attracted to Eleousa by the famous food in the local taverns, such as stuffed kolokythoanthi (zucchini flowers) with cheese, pitaroudia (pancakes made of pumpkin, tomatoes and onions) or goat meat cooked in red sauce with beans. Residents from the capital city of Rhodes often come here for Sunday lunch.

More touristic destinations of Rhodes

Close resorts: Apollona, Archipolis, Platania

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.