Acropolis of Lindos, Archaeological acropolis in Lindos, Greece
The site rises on a steep rock above the Aegean and brings together remains from Greek, Roman and Byzantine times. The path leads through medieval fortifications up to free-standing columns, foundations and a viewing platform overlooking the coast and village below.
A Doric community founded a settlement here in the tenth century BC that grew into an important trading port. Later Roman buildings were added, and during medieval times the Knights of Saint John used the hill as a fortress against Ottoman attacks.
The name Lindos comes from pre-Greek times and points to the ancient roots of this settlement. Today visitors see column remains and temple platforms spread across different levels of the rock that once served as sacred meeting places.
The climb follows a narrow paved path that can be tiring in heat, so visiting early morning or late afternoon is recommended. Sturdy footwear is important because of the uneven steps and stones, and sun protection should be brought along.
At the base of the Propylaea stairway a relief of a three-oared warship is carved into the rock, likely dedicated to an admiral. This depiction shows how important seafaring was to the ancient city and belongs to the few preserved ship reliefs in Greece.
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