Rodos

Rodos, or Ródos in Greek (Ρόδος), known in English as Rhodes, is the largest of the Dodecanese islands in the southeastern Aegean Sea and part of Greece. Its capital is the city of Rhodes. The island lies near the southwestern coast of Turkey and features a varied landscape with a mountainous interior, fertile valleys, and a long coastline of beaches and harbors.

Historically, Rodos has been inhabited since antiquity and has been influenced by many civilizations. It played a prominent role in ancient shipping and trade. From 1309 to 1522 the island was governed by the Knights Hospitaller, whose fortifications gave rise to the medieval city of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It then passed to the Ottoman Empire, was briefly controlled by Italy in the 20th century, and became part of Greece in 1947 following World War II.

Key attractions include the medieval City of Rhodes with the Palace of the Grand Master, the Acropolis of Lindos, and the ancient city of Kamiros. The island preserves historic churches and monasteries, traditional villages, and a cuisine based on olive oil, honey, wine, seafood, and herbs. Cultural events and music festivals occur throughout the year, reflecting Greek Orthodox and local island traditions.

Economy and demographics: The population is around 110,000 to 120,000. The economy relies mainly on tourism, with agriculture (olives, citrus, grapes) and some light manufacturing. The climate is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters, which supports year-round tourism in coastal towns, archaeological sites, and villages.