Saint Panteleimon Church
Description
The 15th-century Saint Panteleimon Church (Agios Panteleimonas), located on the northeastern side of the Medieval Town of Rhodes, is a historic landmark and a treasured place of worship among the locals.
Built on the site of an earlier church, the Church of Saint Panteleimon was commissioned by Grand Master Pierre d’Aubusson following the Knights’ victory over the Ottoman siege on 27 July 1480, the feast day of Saint Panteleimon.
According to local tradition, the victory was credited to the miraculous intervention of the Virgin Mary, and the nearby Church of Our Lady of Victory is believed to have been built as an expression of gratitude in her honour. Unlike many churches in Rhodes, Saint Panteleimon was never converted into a mosque during the Ottoman period.
Over the centuries, the church has been enlarged with chapels dedicated to Saint Anastasia the Roman and Saint Hermolaus. Its elegant interior features modern frescoes and an exquisitely carved, gilded wooden iconostasis, creating a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere for visitors.
Beyond its historical and architectural importance, the parish of Agios Panteleimonas is also known for its long-standing charitable work and its strong ties to the local community. Today, its active clergy continue to support residents through a wide range of social and charitable initiatives.
Feast Day and Panigyri of Agios Panteleimonas in Rhodes Old Town
On July 27, the church honors the feast day of Saint Panteleimon. The evenings of July 26 and 27 are filled with a vibrant traditional festival featuring music and community festivities, providing visitors with a genuine insight into the cultural and religious heritage of Rhodes.