We embark on a journey in the heart of the Mediterranean, accompanied by salt-scented winds. Our starting point is Crete, surrounded by Venetian walls. Our destination is Rhodes, one of the most magnificent knightly capitals of the Middle Ages. This route is filled not only with stone walls and ancient castles, but also with centuries-old stories, heroic epics, and legends that remain on everyone's lips.

Venetian Shield of Crete

  1. In the 16th century, the Venetians built massive defensive structures to protect Crete from pirates and Ottoman raids.

  • Koules Castle (Heraklion): A shield against attacks from the sea. Legend has it that a "blue-cloaked sentry" can still be seen patrolling the walls at night.

  • Rethymno Castle: It is believed that when you look out over the Aegean Sea from its high towers, you can see the silhouettes of old warships in the mist rising from the sea.

  • Chania's Secret Tunnels: Legend has it that these tunnels secretly led people from the port into the mountains during pirate attacks. Some sections remain undiscovered today.

Medieval Trade Routes and Dangers

Islands like Crete, Rhodes , Kos, and Karpathos were stops for the spice, silk, and wine trade. However, this prosperity also made the Aegean a frequent destination for pirates. The names of Mediterranean pirates still appear in folk tales:

  • Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha: The famous admiral of the Ottoman navy clashed with the Venetian navy several times off the coast of Rhodes.

  • Caccia di San Giorgio: The legendary admiral of the Knights of Rhodes, known for his victories against pirates.

The Golden Age of the Knights of Rhodes

The Knights Hospitaller settled on Rhodes in 1309. They saw themselves as both defenders of the faith and guardians of the seas.

  • Grand Master's Palace: The stone walls of the palace are said to still bear traces of sword strikes. Legend has it that the last stand was made here during the Ottoman siege in 1522, and that Knight Guillaume de Villiers, despite being wounded, continued to mount the walls and command.

  • Street of the Knights: There are locals who claim to hear the sound of armor at night as you pass through the narrow stone streets.

  • Secret Wine Cellars: Some guides say these cellars are actually connected to emergency escape tunnels.

Legends and Narratives

  • The Dragon of Rhodes: It is said that a giant dragon terrorized the city of Rhodes in the 14th century. A young knight defeated it with his sword in its cave, and the cave entrance is still known as the "Dragon Cave."

  • Lost Treasure: A knight's ship, laden with gold and silver stolen from the Ottoman fleet while en route from Crete to Rhodes, is said to have sunk off the coast of Karpathos. Divers are still searching for this treasure.

  • The Blue Cloaked Ghost: This ghost, seen in Koules Castle in Crete, is believed to be a Venetian commander who refused to surrender to the enemy during the Ottoman siege.

Knight's Route Today

Today, this historic journey is a unique route for sea and history enthusiasts.

  • Ferry Services: It is possible to go from Crete to Rhodes, stopping in Kos, Karpathos or Symi.

  • Medieval Festivals: The “Medieval Rose” festival, held every summer in Rhodes, recreates the atmosphere of the Middle Ages with costumes, sword shows and knightly parades.

  • Historical Tours: Castles, museums and legendary places can be visited with guided tours.