What to see in Kamiros, Rhodes: Discover the Ancient City of the Dorians
Kamiros, located on the Greek island of Rhodes, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities of the Doric period and offers a fascinating glimpse into life in ancient Greece. Known as ‘the Pompeii of Greece’, this archaeological site, which dates back to the 5th century BC, allows you to walk through streets, temples, cisterns and homes that transport you back to a time when Kamiros was a thriving agricultural and trading town.
If you are planning to travel to Rhodes, the ideal thing to do is to take advantage of and book your car hire in Rhodes at the cheapest price. Without a doubt, moving around the island of Rhodes in your car rental is the best option to make your own route and have full autonomy to visit towns like Kamiros.
Places to visit in Kamiros
The Acropolis of Kamiros
The Acropolis of Kamiros, located at the top of the ancient city, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. It was the spiritual heart of the city and housed temples dedicated to the Greek gods, such as Athena Kameiras. As you walk around the acropolis, you will see columns and the remains of ancient altars. Its strategic location shows how the city was organised to connect with the gods from the highest point. The serene atmosphere and the view over the rest of the site make it a fascinating place to start your visit.
The Hellenic Cistern
The Hellenic Cistern of Kamiros is a masterpiece of ancient engineering, designed to collect and store water for the city. With a capacity of over 600 cubic metres, this cistern played a vital role in the daily life of the inhabitants of Kamiros. It is believed that it also served as a refuge in times of crisis. When visiting this site, one can see the inscriptions and carvings on the walls, witnesses to Doric ingenuity in the management of water, a valuable resource on an arid island. The cistern is a fascinating insight into how ancient cities were organised.
The Houses of Kamiros
The residential quarter of Kamiros is an impressive reflection of the architecture and daily life of the classical period. These houses, arranged in well-organised streets, were built of stone and some included mosaics and decorative details. Walking through these residential areas, one can imagine what daily life was like for the inhabitants, from merchants to craftsmen. The ruins offer a glimpse into the architectural techniques of the time, where courtyards and columns were used to optimise ventilation and natural light in homes.
The Temple of Athena Kameiras
This temple is one of the most emblematic points of the archaeological site, as it was dedicated to the patron goddess of the city, Athena. Although only a part of the original structure remains today, you can appreciate the majesty of its construction and its cultural importance. The temple was surrounded by Doric columns and stood on the acropolis, dominating the view of the city. A visit here provides a direct connection to the spirituality of the Kamiros people and their devotion to Athena, the patron saint of wisdom and war.
The Agora of Kamiros
The Agora was the centre of public and commercial life at Kamiros, an open space where the inhabitants gathered to trade, discuss important matters and participate in social life. Surrounded by columns, shops and small temples, the Agora was the place where citizens found fresh produce and goods from all over the Aegean region. Strolling through this space allows one to imagine the vibrant activity of ancient Kamiros, with its sounds and voices. The structures that remain bear witness to the importance of community life in ancient Greece.
Kamiros is a place of great historical value that offers a unique experience for those who wish to immerse themselves in ancient history and understand how life was lived in a classical Greek city.