Kamiros

The ancient city of Kamiros is one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the island of Rhodes. It is located on the west coast of the island, 34 km from Rhodes Town , from which it can also be reached by bus. If you have rented a car instead starting from the capital of the island of Rhodes take the road to the airport and continue for Theologos, Soroni and Fanes.

Kamiros is a particularly important site, considering that the old town is preserved in exceptional conditions. The sea that spreads to the slopes, shines as you walk along the streets of the ancient city.

Founded by the Dorians in the 8th century BC Kamiros reached its maximum splendor between the sixth and fifth centuries BC

After 408 BC, when Rhodes Town was founded, the decay of Kamiros began which, however, continued to be inhabited until the time of the Emperor Justinian.

The sumptuous public buildings, the Agora, the temples, the Stoà, and then the market square, the houses and the acropolis located at the top of the hill, testify to the richness and glory of this ancient civilization.

On the acropolis of Kamiros the remains of the Peribolus and the peripteral temple of the goddess Athena Kamirada have been found. In the eastern part of the Agora there is a dedicated sanctuary and heroes and divinities and a Doric temple probably dedicated to Apollo from the 3rd century BC

Also very well preserved is a tank dating back to the 6th century BC which, with a capacity of 600 cubic meters, was able to supply water to the entire city. The houses, of which the foundations and the sewer system are preserved, belong to the late Hellenistic and Roman period.

The ruins of the city Kamiros and the nearby necropolis were discovered in 1859, on a very green hill overlooking the sea.

Italy has played a very important role in the collection and conservation of this cultural heritage, starting in 1928 a systematic collection by the Italian Archaeological School of Athens. These interventions have brought to light numerous finds, among which also very precious coins of the time, considered by historians as important for the knowledge of the economic world of the time.

At the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes , some important finds from Kamiros are preserved, such as the famous funerary stele of Crito and Timarista dating from the late 5th century BC

Some signs on site give the basic information on the archaeological site and allow you to orient yourself in what is a real ancient Greek city incredibly preserved.

It is not among the most frequented destinations by tourists but if you are passionate about ancient history and you are in the island of Rhodes, don't miss it! you'll love it!

Hours and prices:
During the summer the site is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 8.00 to 19.30, in winter from 8.30 to 14.30
The ticket price is 6 euros