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The Acropolis of Lindos is one of the most important sites in Rhodes. Reaching heights of 116 meters, the Acropolis was once an important citadel used by not just the Greeks, but others as well.
The Acropolis has had many uses over the years, and after centuries of occupation, it was left abandoned until it was discovered at the beginning of the twentieth century.
Now, the Acropolis of Lindos has become an important archeological site and one of Rhodes’s top attractions.
This guide to the Acropolis of Lindos goes into detail about how to visit the archeological sites and includes important information on some of its sites.
The Acropolis of Lindos Information
Hours: Open from 8:00 am – 7:40 pm (closed on most religious holidays and Tuesday)
Cost of Entry: Adult tickets are €12, Kids/Senior tickers are €12 Free admission days are March 6, April 18, May 18, and the last weekend in September
Best Time to Visit: To beat the crowds try to get there right when it opens
Crowds: Lindos is a popular tourist destination on Rhodes, so expect large crowds in the summer months. For the quietest and best experience, try to go right when it opens.
What to Pack for Lindos: Hat, sunglasses, water, sunscreen, running shoes, and comfortable clothes.
Weather in Rhodes: The Acropolis has next to no shade and is quite hot during the summer months. Going in the early morning and right before close will be the most comfortable times of the day to explore.
History of the Acropolis of Lindos
Lindos has a long and rich history starting back to its founding by the Dorians around the 10th century BC. The temple of Athena was constructed during the 9th century BC.
Hundreds of years later the city evolved into an important trading port connecting Europe to the Middle East between the 7th and 5th centuries BC.
In later centuries Lindos fell under the control of the Romans, then Byzantines before finally being taken over by the Knights of St. John who turned it into the large fortification it is today.
Then, in the 16th Century Lindos was taken over by the Ottomans. It was not until 1947 that Lindos was given back to the Greeks.
Getting to the Acropolis
The easiest was to get around Rhodes is by renting a car, especially if you are staying closer to the port or in the Old Town. If you are staying in Lindos, you can take a bus or taxi to the Acropolis, or even walk!
Transportation to Lindos: If you do not want to rent a vehicle, you can purchase a charter and buy a ticket to take you to and from Lindos.
Pick-up is available from Rhodes Town, Ixia, and Ialyssos. If you choose this form of transportation, you will have four hours to spend however you like in Lindos.
The entrance of Lindos is accessed through the village, which has plenty of signs to help you find your way.
Entrance to the Acropolis
The entrance to the Acropolis of Lindos is through the village of Lindos below it.
There are several signs throughout the streets to help guide you there. You can also enter the Acropolis into your GPS and it will take you straight to the gates.
Once there, you can purchase your tickets for €12 and begin your ascend to the top.
You can also purchase your tickets online in advance.
Popular Guided Tours
Rhodes City Boat Day Trip to Lindos: Transportation to Lindos from Rhodes City with three hours to explore. Spend the rest of the afternoon beach hopping. The perfect way to see a large portion of Rhodes without worrying about transportation.
Lindos Village and Acropolis Walking Tour: This private tour will take you through the historic village of Lindos and the Acropolis.
Best of Rhodes Private Tour: For a customizable private tour, you can see all the island’s highlights. Includes a guide, transportation, entrance tickets, and time for lunch. A good choice if you have little time to spend in Rhodes or are interested in seeing all the historic sites.
Historic Site of the Acropolis of Lindos
There are several important sites throughout the archeological site and visiting without a guide may be difficult to know where to start and what to see.
Here are some of the important sites in the Acropolis of Lindos that you should add to your itinerary.
The Ancient Theatre
On the southwest side of the Acropolis sits the 1800 spectator auditorium that dates to the 4th century BC. It was used in honor of Dinysos and hosted many theatrical and musical festivities. The auditorium was painstakingly hollowed out of the side of the hill, and many of the honorary seats remain.
The Temple of Athena
The ruins of the temple of Athena Lindia sit at the top of the Acropolis. The building was actually built on the remains of a former temple back in 300 BC. As time went on, this area grew, and additional buildings were constructed to create a sanctuary used for religious purposes. Around the 4th century they were abandoned, and the Knights of St. John took over to build the fortification around the sanctuary.
The Hellenistic Stoa
Sitting on both sides of the Propylaia staircase are the remains of the Hellenistic Stoa. The final addition to the sanctuary, the stoa was completed in the end of 3rd century BC. Restoration of the Acropolis have revealed the foundation of the stoa and 26 columns to this day.
CASTLE OF THE KNIGHTS OF ST. JOHN
During the 14th-century the Knights of St. John took over Rhodes and began building their castle in Lindos. The Castle surrounds the Acropolis and was used as a fort placed high on top of the hill to allow for easy defense from intruders. The Knights of St. John defended the castle until 1522 when the Ottomans captured it. Today only two of the original towers remain.
CHURCH OF THE KNIGHTS OF ST. JOHN
The Orthodox Church was built between the 13th and 14th centuries. Later, the Knight’s headquarters were attached to the north side of the cathedral. When the Ottomans took over, the church was turned into a mosque.
Rhodian Warship Relief
On the base of the Acropolis is a set of stone steps that you must take to reach the top. These steps are built into the cliff and are adorned with a famous carving of a warship in the stone. Created by the sculptor Pythokritos, it was used as the base of a bronze statue to honor Hagesandros for his naval victory for the Rhodians.
Things to do Near the Acropolis
The Village of Lindos
At the base of the Acropolis is the beautiful village of Lindos. It reminded us a little of Mykonos town with its winding pedestrian streets and white buildings.
This is a great place to grab lunch, do some shopping, and get lost. If you want to escape the crowds venture off the main lanes!
Lindos Main Beach
Right below the whitewashed village of Lindos is its beach. Popular for its crystal-clear water and beach bars, Lindos Beach is perfect for cooling off after exploring the Acropolis in the blazing summer heat.
Saint Paul’s Bay
On the other side of the Acropolis is Saint Paul’s Bay. This smaller beach has some of the warmest water on the island and is impeccable for sunbathing and swimming.
The beach has its own restaurant and sunchairs that you can rent for €15 per person.
Frequent Questions About Visiting Lindos
How long does it take to climb to the Acropolis?
From the village of Lindos to the top of the Acropolis takes about 20 minutes total.
The journey is through winding paths through the village and up a series stone steps, with several shaded places to stop if needed.
How far is Lindos from the Old Town?
The town of Lindos is just under 30 miles from the Old Town and about 1-hour car ride.
The best way to get there is by renting your own car or by joining a tour group that includes transportation.
Is there parking for Lindos?
Yes, there are several free parking spots available above the village of Lindos.
From there, you will have to descend a paved road into the town itself before navigating the streets to the Acropolis entrance.
How long should you spend at the Acropolis?
If you are visiting on your own, I recommend spending 1-2 hours to see the entire area.
If you plan on exploring the village and a nearby beach, you will need at least half a day.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this guide to the Acropolis of Lindos. If you are planning a trip to Rhodes, I suggest adding this destination to your itinerary.
Spend the morning taking in hundreds of years of history, followed by a walk through the whitewashed village and swimming in St. Paul’s Bay.
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