Rhodes port

Mandraki Port
Rating 9110

26 august 2026Travel time: 3 july 2022
Located on the east coast of Rhodes, not far from the New Town, Mandraki Harbour is a historic port that captivates visitors with its timeless charm. Serving as a gateway to the island’s rich past, Mandraki is shrouded in an atmosphere that echoes with the whispers of history. Its close proximity to the modern amenities of the New Town juxtaposes the ancient and the modern, making it a unique attraction. Not only does this port offer a glimpse into the historical narrative of Rhodes, it is also a testament to the island’s long-standing connection to the sea.
Legend has it that a colossal ancient statue, the famous Colossus of Rhodes, once graced this very harbour. However, modern research has changed our understanding, suggesting that the majestic statue may have stood proudly on the eastern promontory of Mandraki Harbour or perhaps even further inland. Despite this, one thing remains clear: it was never located at the entrance to Mandraki Harbor, as many once believed.
Although the Colossus has unfortunately succumbed to the ravages of time, the port of Mandraki continues to embrace its glorious past. A tapestry of magnificent historical monuments surrounds the harbor, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that captivates all who set foot on its hallowed ground.
Today, the port of Mandraki is a cherished symbol of the island of Rhodes - a testament to the island's rich history and its unchanging spirit. It beckons travelers to embark on a journey of exploration and immerse themselves in the timeless beauty that surrounds this legendary harbor.
At the gates of the ancient port of Mandraki, two bronze figures stand silent sentinels - a stag named "Elephos" and a doe named "Elaphina". Dating back to the Venetian era, they stand atop stone columns. Their majestic presence greets arriving ships like old friends returning home.
The fortress of Agios Nikolaos was built by the Grand Master of the Order of Saint John of Zacosta around 1464-1467 on the Mandraki pier. Until 1460, only the church of Saint Nicholas stood on its site, which is mentioned as early as 1394 and is depicted in a miniature by Buondelmonti in the Liber Insularum in 1420 with the inscription "Sanctus Nicolaus". The fortress of Agios Nikolaos is an isolated fortress that functioned as the "key to the defense of the city". It suffered several damages both from the siege of the Turks in 1480 and from the earthquake of 1481. The bastion was rebuilt by M. D'Aubusson, who fortified it with a new powerful complex surrounding it.
The fortress was used by the Italians during World War II to protect the harbor. In the mid-17th century, a lighthouse was installed on its roof, which is still in operation today.
Translated automatically from Ukrainian. View original

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