Rhodes has a storied past, changing hands among rulers, each adding to its cultural tapestry. Its architecture echoes its rich heritage. By the 16th century, the island was under Ottoman rule, which brought significant changes including the construction of Suleiman Mosque.
Upon conquering Rhodes, the Ottomans swiftly reshaped the island to their cultural norms. The skyline of Rhodes city was soon punctuated with minarets. The Suleymaniye Mosque stands as one of the best-preserved edifices from the Ottoman period.
The first Islamic edifice on Rhodes, the Suleiman Mosque, was erected immediately after the Ottoman conquest in 1522. Named after Sultan Suleiman I, who ordered the invasion, it’s said to stand where once a proto-Christian church of the Holy Apostles was. Transformed in 1808, the mosque absorbed materials from nearby structures, incorporating columns from a Christian church into its external arcade. This renovation infused it with neoclassical elements, a style that was in vogue in the Ottoman Empire during the 19th century.
The Suleymaniye Mosque in Rhodes, adorned with handcrafted plasterwork, boasts unique artistic craftsmanship. Since its restoration in 2005, the mosque no longer hosts daily prayers but opens its doors during Islamic festivals. Recognized by Europa Nostra for its significance in preserving Western Islamic heritage, it stands as a testament to cultural conservation efforts.
When constructed, the Suleymaniye Mosque stood as a testament to the Ottoman Empire’s triumph over Rhodes. The structure is segmented into three square areas, with one of the domes soaring up to 15 meters. A 35-meter-tall minaret, which unfortunately had to be removed 30 years ago due to deterioration and safety hazards, originally towered between the central and western domes.
Adjacent to the Suleiman Mosque lies a charming courtyard featuring a garden, sundial, and ablution fountain, believed to have been constructed after the mosque itself. Located in the heart of the Old Town, the mosque is just a short stroll from Knights Street—only a two-minute walk. Exploring Rhodes' historical center on foot is ideal, as renting a car is impractical due to the narrow streets and lack of parking near the site.
