Rhodes - Acropolis of Lindos and Knights of St. John

Our first destination on the island of Rhodes was the Acropolis of Lindos, a magnificent temple built at the top of a mountain overlooking the Agean Sea. The structures are ancient Greek fused with medieval strongholds, on an island that was never taken by force during those times. Thousands of statues once dotted these grounds, made as offerings to various gods. Unfortunately, they've been stolen over thousands of years and only footprints remain in their marble bases. You'll have to travel to Great Britain, France, or the US to see these original statues now. Steve and Noreen filled in the best they could. It must have been an amazing sight when all the statues were here.

Jim and Shirley enjoyed a culinary tour of Rhodes which took them to a monastery and many of the ancient sites of the walled city. They continue meeting new friends everywhere they go.

St Paul came to the city of Rhodes to spread Christianity. Rhodes was a medieval stronghold of great wealth and importance, evident in the massive castle walls built by the Knights of St. John, treasury buildings, and moat fortifications. The Street of the Knights funneled massive treasures into the city, linked the Christian Cathedral to the Palace of the Grand Masters, and brought together leaders from many lands to discuss issues and trade of the day. The castle conjures up scenes from Monty Python's Holy Grail movie and should be a bucket list for anyone interested in medieval history.

Jim and Shirley continue making new friends. Tonight they enjoyed a marvelous dinner with Jo and Allen, and then took in a show at the Constellation theater. The food and entertainment aboard the SS Mariner has been fantastic. The weather and sunsets are amazing and we've had no rain since they first squaw in Istanbul.