History

The Spirit of the Knights was originally built on the foundations of the Byzantine and Roman city by the Crusaders and is approximately 600 - 700 years old. In the 16th century the Ottoman Empire invaded Rhodes at which point the Crusaders vacated the city, this resulting in many Ottoman architectural features being added to the building. This rich blend of original features developed over the centuries has resulted in the building being classified with Monument Status this being above the UNESCO Heritage award to the medieval city.

Maintaining the integrity of the building was always the main consideration throughout the renovation project and was overseen by the Greek Archaeological Department. Having purchased the building in April 2004 the entire process was completed in 2008. The hotel now houses many art works and antiques from different parts of the world and each suite is distinctive in its architectural interior features. To see the transformation take place was a truly breathtaking experience and now this unique building will once again stand the test of time to be enjoyed for many more centuries.

During the excavation many relics were found and were returned to the Greek Archaeological Department for cleaning and logging. These included a Roman Road that was not in good enough condition to be kept. There were also many artefacts including a Doric Column and a section of Red Marble Pillar. Every find helps build a clearer picture of the city throughout its History. Many are on display in the Archaeological Museum and Grand Masters Palace within Rhodes medieval city. In the library housed in the salon of the hotel there are many books for your use including literature on the history of Rhodes.

General

The Spirit of the Knights is an exclusive, Eco Friendly, luxury boutique hotel tucked away on a quiet cobbled street at the highest point of the Medieval City of Rhodes.

The hotel has a total of six suites, each architecturally and interiorly unique in its own right. The public areas are large and airy and include a reception, ground floor WC, lounge, library area, bar, inner courtyard garden and outer courtyard with water feature creating a wonderfully tranquil and spacious environment to relax in privacy.

The hotel is fully air conditioned for the hot summers and centrally heated for the cooler winters.

We provide sun lounges, bathrobes, toiletries and towels for sunbathing in our gardens and we have a large outdoor Jacuzzi. The hotel has a well stocked bar and can provide a wide range of foods.

Our first floor library is available for all our guests to enjoy.

An internet pc is available in the reception area and free wireless broadband is available throughout the hotel.

Yoga, Massage, Meditation & Relaxation and Reiki are all available in house and are taught by professional instructors.

Eco Footprint

We are a family run hotel and are committed to our ethos -

‘Eco-Friendliness, Less Pollution, Conservation in all areas of life and nature’

Our commitment to the environment includes natural materials in elements of reconstruction and daily running of the hotel. The building was originally built by the Crusaders when all building materials were natural and the renovation has incorporated this core principal. The stone used is from Rhodes island where it is still quarried. Solar energy for heating water has been incorporated. All floors are laid with timber, marble, stone or sea washed pebbles. Central heating radiators are created using marble, not metal.

Fabrics and carpets are woven from natural fibres. The beds in each suite complete with pillows, linen and duvets are luxury and non allergenic created by Co-Co Mat using six natural fibers.

Toiletries are eco-friendly and non allergenic. Laundry and cleaning liquids are all non-allergenic products and are bought from local shops as opposed to large retail companies. Wherever possible we use solar energy for external lighting and low energy lights for the interior of the hotel. Candles are set out in the garden and bar area. Not only does this save energy but also creates a peaceful and romantic setting in which to relax in the long, summer nights. The garden itself has a wide range of plants, trees and flowers that creates food and habitat for insects and local wildlife. Local wildlife often frequents our garden to make use of the water feature. Waste disposal is kept to an absolute minimum and left over food is always used to feed the local wildlife.

Respecting the Greek culture and promoting the local community is of upmost importance to us. We have only used the skills of local craftsmen, artisans etc and will continue to do so. We buy our produce and supplies from local shops and markets and promote this to our guests. Our a la carte breakfast is prepared to order for each guest and is not left out in a buffet style. This includes fresh locally baked bread, freshly squeezed orange juice and the delicious local Greek honey which is produced on the mountains of Rhodes. Our wine menu is made up of a wide selection of red, white & rose Greek wine to suit each and every palate.

The medieval city is a fascinating place to go out and explore. Some of the attractions include The Palace of the Knights & Archaeological sites.We provide guide books and maps in all of our suites as well as the free use of bicycles.

Both yoga and massage are available for all guests and are run by qualified, local people.

Rates 2009/2010

Tariffs are per suite per night based on two people sharing inclusive of VAT in Euros. À la carte breakfast is included.

Winter season: 1st December – 31st March Low season: 1st October – 30th November; 1st April – 15th June High season: 16th June – 30th September

Contact & location

14 Alexandridou Old Town, Rhodes 85100, Greece

(+30) 22410 39765

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This travel guide also includes text from Wikitravel articles, all available at WikitravelView full credits

This travel guide also includes text from Wikipedia articles, all available at WikipediaView full credits

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