Profitis Ilias, Mountain summit in Rhodes, Greece.
Profitis Ilias is a mountain summit on Rhodes and one of the highest points on the island, rising to 2,454 feet (748 meters). The peak sits in the forested interior, covered in pine trees that set it apart from the coastal lowlands.
In ancient times the mountain served as a lookout for sailors crossing the eastern Mediterranean. During the Italian occupation in the 20th century, two alpine-style lodges were built near the summit and they are still standing today.
A small chapel dedicated to Prophet Elias stands at the top and gives the mountain its name. On feast days, pilgrims gather there for services, and the place takes on a more solemn tone than on ordinary days.
The summit can be reached on foot via marked trails or by car on a paved road that goes all the way to the top. On overcast days the peak can be wrapped in cloud, so a clear day makes the trip much more rewarding.
The two stone lodges built by the Italians near the summit in the 1930s were designed in an alpine style that feels out of place on a Greek island. They are still standing and are one of the more unexpected things a visitor comes across up there.
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