Knights Hospitaller Take Rhodes: What Happened
Between 1306 and 1310, the Knights Hospitaller, a Catholic military order founded during the Crusades, conquered the island of Rhodes. The order had begun in Jerusalem by caring for sick pilgrims and later became a powerful fighting force. After the last crusader strongholds in the Holy Land fell in 1291, the knights moved to Cyprus but sought a base of their own. Led by their Grand Master, Foulques de Villaret, they launched a campaign against Rhodes, then held by the Byzantines, and after several years of fighting, they captured the city of Rhodes around 1309 to 1310. The knights made Rhodes the headquarters of their order and ruled the island and nearby Dodecanese islands for more than two centuries. They built massive fortifications, the Palace of the Grand Master and the famous Street of the Knights, where members from different European regions, called tongues, lived in separate inns. From Rhodes, they fought Muslim powers at sea and cared for the sick. The medieval town of Rhodes they created is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the Knights Hospitaller?
The Knights Hospitaller were a Catholic military order founded during the Crusades. They began by caring for sick pilgrims in Jerusalem and became a powerful fighting force.
When did the Knights take Rhodes?
The Knights conquered Rhodes between 1306 and 1310, led by their Grand Master Foulques de Villaret, taking it from the Byzantines.
How long did the Knights rule Rhodes?
The Knights ruled Rhodes and nearby Dodecanese islands for more than two centuries, until the Ottomans captured the island in 1522.
What is the Street of the Knights?
The Street of the Knights in Rhodes Old Town was where members from different European regions, called tongues, lived in separate inns. It is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe.
Is the medieval town of Rhodes a World Heritage Site?
Yes. The Medieval City of Rhodes, including the Palace of the Grand Master and the walls built by the Knights, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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