Monolithos Castle was built in 1480 by the Knights of St. John to protect the island from enemy attacks. Due to its strategic location, where a 100-metre high rocky hill with a wide view of the Mediterranean Sea was chosen for the construction of the castle, Monolithos was one of the most important defensive structures on the island in its time.

The castle was never conquered, but its condition was affected by years of exposure to the weather and today only parts of the outer fortifications and the foundations of the inner buildings remain. Despite this, Monolithos Castle belongs to the best preserved ones. There are also two other buildings on the site, namely two small chapels - the white chapel of Agios Panteleimon in the middle and the smaller, now much damaged chapel of St. George. Examination of these remains also revealed that Monolithos Castle was not the first building on this rock, but was built on the foundations of a much older building.

The remains of the medieval castle are located about 1.5 km south-west of the village of Monolithos, already some distance from the main tourist destinations of Rhodes. But, if you are staying in the area, a visit to this Rhodian monument is definitely worthwhile. The parking place is located at the last bend below the castle and then, there are narrow and a bit slippery steps carved into the rock leading to the top of the hill. However, with care and good footwear they are not particularly dangerous. There is also a stall with drinks and small snacks by the parking place.

On top of the rock, apart from the remains of the castle, you will be especially impressed by the beautiful view of the sea, including the two nearby islands and the beach of Fourni. You can combine a trip to Monolithos Castle with a swim on the beautiful and quiet sandy beach of Fourni. Heading inland, you can then observe the mountain of Akramytis and the village of Monolithos.

More touristic destinations of Rhodes

Most favourite sights of Rhodes: Acropolis of Lindos, Acropolis of Rhodes, Monolithos Castle, Tsambika Monastery, Kolossos of Rhodes, Palace of the Grand Masters - Rhodes Town

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